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Shortages of certain Hormone Replacement Therapy products used to combat the effects of the menopause have been described as "concerning" by the Health Minister, who said the island may follow the UK in how it tackles the issue.
Deputy Karen Wilson said she hoped that it might be possible to change the law so that Jersey could operate the same "serious shortage protocols" as the UK.
Responding to a question from Deputy Rob Ward in the States Assembly, the Minister said: "There are some concerns shared by myself and other people in need of HRT products – there are some shortages, resulting from our being part of the UK supply chain, and it is quite a long-standing issue.
"There are sufficient alternatives available and it’s important that people discuss concerns with their GPs."
Utrogestan is a commonly used type of HRT but is currently in short supply in Jersey. The shortage means some women face problems in accessing prescriptions to help manage their symptoms.
Pictured: Health Minister Karen Wilson.
Deputy Wilson said the serious shortage protocol system operating in the UK allowed pharmacists to decide if it was reasonable to provide a substitute product.
She said: "Legislation in Jersey doesn’t allow for this [at present] but we would consider changes to legislation in this context."
The Minister said the situation would be kept under review, and pledged to communicate any updates to islanders.
Last year an officer with the States of Jersey Police initiated a campaign to make the island a more menopause-friendly place.
PC Joana Carter, a school and youth focus officer, is the force's menopause champion and has delivered presentations to her colleagues on the subject.
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