2025

CANDIDATE
HANDBOOK
The Menopause Society Certified
Practitioner (MSCP) Program
 Why Should You Earn the MSCP
Menopause Practitioner Credential?

The Menopause Society is the leading nonprofit organization dedicated to

empowering healthcare professionals to improve the health of women during the
menopause transition and beyond. Over seven thousand professionals representing
a variety of disciplines—including clinical and basic science experts from medicine,
nursing, pharmacy, anthropology, sociology, psychology, and complementary/
alternative medicine—make The Menopause Society uniquely qualified to serve
as the definitive, independent, and evidence-based resource for healthcare
professionals, researchers, the media, and the public. The Society leads the
conversation about improving women’s health and healthcare experiences.

As the definitive resource, The Menopause Society created this competency

examination for healthcare professionals to demonstrate their expertise, which
leads to the The Menopause Society Certified Practitioner (MSCP) certification.
What are the benefits of holding this certification?

• Validation of a level of expertise that only the preeminent menopause

organization can offer

• Possibility of more patient referrals, job promotion, and higher salaries

• Enhanced credibility and the personal satisfaction of providing your

patients with the best possible care

• Downloadable certificate showing their certification status

• Downloadable MSCP logo available on request for use on your

website, PowerPoint presentations, or printed literature

• Sample announcement provided by The Menopause Society to assist

you in alerting your local media outlets that you hold the credential

• Permission to use “MSCP” every time you feature your name and other
certifications

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 Contents

Objectives of Program . . . . . . . . . . . . . 4

Examination Policies . . . . . . . . . . . . . 5

Special Requests . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 8

Post-Exam . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 8

Maintenance Program . . . . . . . . . . . . . 9

Revocation of Certification . . . . . . . . . . 10

Examination Preparation . . . . . . . . . . . 10

Frequently Asked Questions . . . . . . . . . 15

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Objectives Program

The Menopause Society Certified

Practitioner (MSCP) should be able to practice. The examination has been developed
through a combined effort of qualified subject-
• Define menopause-related terminology. matter experts and testing professionals who have
• Discuss endocrinologic and physical changes constructed the examination in accordance with the
associated with reproductive and physiologic MSCP competency examination content outline.
aging.
• Identify significant risk factors for diseases that
can result from lowered ovarian hormone levels.
The MSCP competency examination consists of
• Comprehend the main components of obtaining 100 multiple-choice questions in English. Each
a general health history and performing an question includes three response alternatives
appropriate physical examination. (A, B, C), with one of those being the correct
• Select appropriate laboratory and diagnostic response. Candidates will be permitted 2
studies. hours to complete the examination. Those
who meet the eligibility requirements and
• Interpret physical, laboratory, and diagnostic
achieve a passing score will be awarded a
findings as they relate to treatment decisions.
certificate indicating that they have achieved
• Describe current research regarding the use certification status as an MSCP.
of pharmacologic as well as complementary
and alternative medicine (CAM) treatments for
menopause-related conditions.
• Develop recommended lifestyle, nonprescription,
and prescription risk-reduction and treatment
strategies for menopause-related symptoms
and disease.
• Provide each patient with education to make
informed decisions regarding health promotion
and illness prevention.
• Address psychosocial issues, including diversity.
• Recognize when referrals to specialized services
are appropriate.
• Encourage acceptance and long-term adherence
to an individualized healthcare plan.
• Develop appropriate counseling strategies that
lead to positive lifestyle changes for women
around menopause and beyond.

The content of the MSCP competency examination

has been defined by a national role-delineation
study. The study involved surveying practitioners
in the field to identify tasks that are performed
routinely and considered important to competent

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Examination Policies

Eligibility Requirements 2025 Examination Dates,

To be eligible for the MSCP competency examination, Locations, and Deadlines
candidates must be a licensed healthcare The MSCP examination is offered via Live Remote
professional, including (among others) the following Proctored (LRP) Test Administration. For those
specialists (listed alphabetically): nurse, nurse who prefer, the exam can be taken in-person at
midwife, nurse practitioner, pharmacist, physician, a designated testing center for an additional fee
and physician assistant. Proof of licensure will be of $20. The exam is offered during one month
required, showing an expiration date in the future. If testing windows in June and October, following
the first/ last name on your license does not match the application’s approval. Candidate applications
the full name on your registration, a legal name will be accepted year-round, however applications
change document will also need to be uploaded. must be submitted with full payment at least 30
Such documents include marriage licenses, divorcee days before the desired testing window begins.
decrees, or naturalization paperwork. Applications submitted less than 30 days prior to
the start of a testing window will be processed for
Language the next testing window.
The MSCP examination is offered in English only.
Upon application approval and clearance of
About the Testing Agency payment, candidates will receive an email
Meazure Learning is the professional testing confirmation of their application acceptance. If
agency contracted by The Menopause Society the application is not completed and submitted
to assist in the development, administration, within 90 days of opening, the application will
scoring, score reporting, and analysis of the MSCP be categorized as “abandoned” and closed and a
competency examination. Meazure Learning is new application must be submitted to test. Upon
a research and development firm that conducts application approval and clearance of payment,
professional competency assessment research candidates will receive an email confirmation of
and provides examination services for a number of their application acceptance.
organizations similar to The Menopause Society.
Approximately 30 days before the testing period
Meazure Learning begins, the testing company will issue a notice
to schedule testing to the candidate by email.
PO Box 570, Morrisville, NC 27560 Candidates must schedule their testing appointment
at least 24 hours in advance of the requested testing
Phone: 919-572-6880
appointment. Candidates have two testing cycles to
Monday-Friday 8:30 AM - 5:30 PM Eastern Time complete the exam. If the exam is not taken after two
Email: candidatesupport@meazurelearning. testing cycles, the application will be forfeited and
com no refund will be provided.
Online application link found at
Application Deadline Testing Window
https://www.menopause.org/for-
professionals/mscp-certification. May 1, 2025 11:59 pm ET June 1–30, 2025

Statement of Nondiscrimination August 31, 2025

October 1–31, 2025
11:59 pm ET
The Menopause Society and Meazure Learning do
not discriminate among candidates on the basis of • Applications received after the deadline will be
age, gender, race, color, religion, national origin, deferred to the next available testing window.
sexual orientation, disability, or marital status. • Notice to Schedule emails will not be sent until
approximately 30 days before the testing
window begins.

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Examination Fees • Candidates are responsible for ensuring that
All fees for the examination are in US dollars. their computers meet technical requirements, as
The Menopause Society members ........$375 outlined in The Menopause Society’s candidate
Nonmembers .............$675 communications and in the confirmation email.
During the scheduling process or at any time
Upon successful completion of the required prior to the scheduled appointment, candidates
application information, the candidate will submit should perform a system check of the computer
the certification fee via secure e-commerce by they intend to use during the testing session. If
e-check or credit card. Meazure Learning will the candidate is unable to take the examination
process completed applications within seven at the scheduled appointment due to inadequate
business days of receipt. system capabilities or technical issues that
cannot be resolved by the candidate and the
Candidates whose applications will be paid by proctor, the candidate may reschedule the
another party may select a third-party payer appointment.
option. Third-party payments must be made by • Candidates are responsible for ensuring their
the application deadline to be eligible for the testing environment meets the minimum
most upcoming window. Candidates will provide requirements to take the exam, as outlined in The
appropriate contact information for the third-party Menopause Society’s candidate communications
payer. Meazure Learning will then email the third- and in the confirmation email. If the candidate’s
party payer to request payment through a secure link, environment does not meet the requirements, as
which provides access only to the payment section of determined by the online proctor, the candidate
the candidate’s application. The third-party payer will may reschedule the appointment. LRP Testing
submit payment via personal or institutional e-check Session Cancellations, Rescheduling, Refunds,
or credit card. If payment is not received within 90 and No-shows.
days, the application will be closed.
LRP Testing Session Cancellations,
Confirmation Notices Rescheduling, Refunds, and No-shows
• Once the candidate has scheduled an • Candidates must cancel a scheduled LRP
LRP testing appointment using the online testing session no less than 24 hours prior to the
scheduling system, the candidate will receive scheduled appointment. The candidate must
email confirmation notices from both Meazure cancel their testing session by returning to the
Learning and the LRP provider. Meazure Learning online scheduling system to
• The confirmation notices will provide the access the live online proctoring portal.
following information: • Candidates may reschedule their LRP testing
− The date and time of the testing appointment; appointment, provided the candidate is within
their eligibility period. The candidate must
− The URL to access the scheduled,
reschedule the testing appointment no less than
online-proctored test;
24 hours prior to the scheduled appointment.
− The URL for the system check;
• A candidate who schedules an LRP appointment
− Computer specifications required to take the but does not appear for their testing appointment
exam via live, online-proctored testing; will be considered a no-show. Applications
− A list of items that candidates may and may not and fees for no-shows are forfeited and a new
have access to during the testing session; and application and fee must be submitted to
schedule for a future testing period window.
− Information regarding an online tutorial for
candidates, so that candidates may familiarize • Refunds, minus a $50 processing fee, will be
themselves with Meazure Learning’s internet- provided upon request for cancellations received
based test delivery system prior to the in writing within 30 days of receipt of the exam
scheduled test date. Candidates may access fee. No refunds will be provided at any other time.
the online demonstration free of charge
through Meazure Learning’s website.

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Secure, Internet-based Test Administration via • The examination will be timed, with an optional
Live Remote Proctoring timer displayed on each candidate’s computer
screen. Candidates will be allowed a total
• Meazure Learning will administer the MSCP
testing period of no more than two (2) hours to
examination via live online proctored, internet-
complete the examination.
based delivery during scheduled testing windows.
• The candidate must remain in full view of the
• At the scheduled time of the testing session, the
online proctor at all times during the testing
candidate will connect to the testing website, and
session. There are no breaks permitted.
the online proctor will lead the candidate through
the process of system and identity verification and • Candidates will be notified approximately six
a scan of the candidate’s testing environment. weeks after the last date of the June testing
period whether they have passed or failed
• The candidate must show a valid government-
the examination. Candidates will be notified
issued photo identification with signature and
immediately upon completion of the examination
a valid confirmation notice in order to access
in October whether they have passed or failed the
the examination. The candidate’s first and last
examination.
names as listed on the government-issued
photo ID must match their name on the exam • Video of the candidate’s testing session from the
confirmation email. webcam, all audio, and system recordings will be
securely stored for up to one year following the
• During the testing session, the candidate may
testing session.
communicate with the proctor via the chat
interface within the testing website. If directed
by the proctor, or in case of technical difficulties,
System Requirements for Live Remote Proctoring
the candidate may telephone the proctor. Candidates are required to have a webcam installed
on their exam workstation and reliable access to
• The proctor will watch the candidate on a
the Internet. An internet connection disruption
webcam and view the candidate’s desktop
will suspend the test session. The following are the
throughout the testing session to monitor for
minimum technical requirements:
unauthorized activities. The proctor will record
all audio and video captured during the testing
session. The proctor will have access to the • A well-working computer (tablets and
candidate’s computer to determine whether Chromebooks are not supported) with 4 GB of
the candidate has any unauthorized software RAM or higher.
applications running or multiple monitors open. • A high-speed internet connection of 1 mbps
The proctor may need to update settings to ensure upload and 1 mbps download. Wireless is
the security of the session. All changes will be acceptable; however a wired connection is
visible on screen. preferred.
• Should any questions arise, online proctors are • A webcam with 640x480 video pixel resolution (a
instructed to contact Meazure Learning’s proctor laptop camera is acceptable.)
support staff for resolution of the problem. In
• Working speakers connected to the computer.
the event of aberrant behavior, the proctor will
have the ability to end the testing session. No • A microphone connected to the computer
refunds will be given for testing sessions ended (consider a webcam with a built-in microphone.)
for aberrant behavior. • Browser compatibility: Firefox, Chrome.
• Prior to testing, candidates should review • Candidates must use a computer with admin access.
Meazure Learning’s tutorial, which walks the
• Candidates must have the Guardian Browser
candidates through all system features. This
downloaded for the examination.
tutorial can be found at https://meazurelearning.
wistia.com/medias/x8sicg86fm • Helpful links should be reviewed in advance of
exam appointment. They can be found at
• Candidates may not have access to any materials
https://www.menopause.org/for-professionals/
or calculators while taking the exam.
mscp-certification.
• Candidates will have access to an online
scientific calculator.

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Special Requests

Accommodation for Disabilities for these persons, provided that an appropriate

The Menopause Society and Meazure Learning request for accommodation is submitted to
comply with the Americans With Disabilities Act Meazure Learning with their application and that
(ADA) and will ensure that persons with disabilities the request is approved. A special accommodations
are not deprived of the opportunity to take the form is included with the online application.
examination solely because of a disability, as Professional documentation of the submitted
required and defined by the relevant provisions of disability may be required.
the law. Special testing arrangements may be made

Post-Exam

Report of Results The minimum scaled score needed to pass the

When a new exam instrument is introduced (in examination has been set at 75 scaled score units.
June), candidates will be notified of results within The reason for reporting scaled scores is that
six weeks from the last testing date in that testing different versions (“forms”) of the examination may
window. Otherwise, candidates will be notified vary in difficulty. As new forms of the examination
immediately upon completion whether they have are introduced each year, a certain number of
passed or failed the examination. questions in each content area are replaced. These
changes may cause one form of the examination
Recognition of Competency to be slightly easier or more difficult than another
Approximately four to six weeks after the last date form. To adjust for these differences in difficulty,
in the testing period, candidates who pass the a procedure called “equating” is used. The goal of
MSCP competency exam will receive a notification equating is to ensure fairness to all candidates.
with instructions on how to download a certificate
indicating that they have received certification status. In the equating process, the minimum raw score
If the certification is achieved any time during 2025, (number of correctly answered questions) required
it is valid through December 31, 2028. Thereafter, all to pass the exam is adjusted to account for changes
renewals will occur three years later on December 31. in difficulty from one form to the next. For example,
if the examination is determined to be more
Examination Scores difficult than the previous form of the examination,
Examination scores are reported as raw scores and then the minimum raw score required to pass will
scaled scores. A raw score is the number of correctly be slightly lower than the original raw passing
answered questions; a scaled score is statistically score. The raw passing score is then translated into
derived from the raw score. One’s total score the scaled score range by making 75 scaled score
determines whether they pass or fail; it is reported units equivalent to the equated raw passing score.
as a scaled score ranging between 0 and 99. This ensures that the scaled score of 75 represents
the same level of competence regardless of which
The passing score was determined through a form a candidate has taken.
criterion reference passing-point study in which
subject matter experts determined the level of
competence indicative of an appropriate level of
expertise deserving of certification as a MSCP.

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In addition to the candidate’s total scaled score and weaknesses; however, passing or failing the
and scaled score required to pass, raw scores examination is based only on the candidate’s total
(the actual number of questions answered scaled score.
correctly) are reported for the major categories
on the content outline. The number of questions Reexamination
answered correctly in each major category is The MSCP competency examination may be taken
compared with the total number of questions as often as desired on filing of a new application
in that category on the score report (eg, 30/40). and fee. There is no limit to the number of times
Content categoric information is provided to assist the examination may be repeated, though the exam
candidates in identifying areas of relative strengths may be taken only one time per testing window.

MAINTENANCE PROGRAM

Details on how to maintain certification status, books, and The Menopause Society position
as well as an application form, are included statements published in Menopause (with CME
in a separate booklet called the Certification available in print and on the The Menopause
Maintenance Application found at Society website). A current list of all The Menopause
https://www.menopause.org/for-professionals/ Society-sponsored CME activites may be found at
mscp-maintenance. To maintain certification https://www.menopause.org/for-professionals/
status, there are two options—submit the nams-cme.
appropriate continuing education hours or
reexamination. The fee for either option is the The 30 remaining credit hours may be CME credit
same: $375 (US dollars) for The Menopause Society hours offered through an accredited organization
members, $675 (US dollars) for nonmembers. and pertaining to women’s health.

Continuing Education 1 CME credit hour = 60 minutes = 1 contact hour

To maintain certification status through continuing 1 contact hour = 60 minutes = 0.1 CEU
education, one must meet the eligibility 1 CEU = 10 contact hours = 10 credit hours
requirements and provide proof that they have
earned a total of 45 credit hours of continuing After the certification expiration date, this option will
medical education (CME) between the date no longer be available. Reexamination is the only
certification (exam date) is earned and the renewal way to maintain the certification once it has expired.
date. For example, if the certification was earned
on June 1, 2025, CME earned from June 1, 2025, Reexamination
through December 31, 2028, would be eligible. After The alternative maintenance option is to meet the
the first renewal, all renewals occur three years then-current eligibility requirements, then take
later on December 31. and pass the then-current examination before the
certification expiration date.
CME must be awarded from an accredited
organization. Of the 45 hours of CME, 15 must have If one chooses to maintain their certification
been awarded by The Menopause Society. This status by reexamination, their MSCP certification
requirement is because the Society wants to be will lapse if they do not pass the examination
certain that adequate menopause education has by the certification expiration deadline. If the
occurred. The Menopause Society is continually certification has lapsed, they may no longer use
developing CME activities, including the Annual the certification.
Meeting, other live events, The Menopause Society

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Revocation of Certification

Admittance to the examination will be denied The Menopause Society provides the appeal
or the certification will be revoked for any of the mechanism for challenging denial of eligibility to
following reasons: the examination or revocation of the certification.
Failure of the examination is not a circumstance
• Falsification of an application or documentation for review and appeal. It is the responsibility of the
provided with the application. candidate to initiate the appeal process by written
request to The Menopause Society within 30 days of
• Failure to pay the required fee.
the circumstance leading to the appeal.
• Misrepresentation of certification status.

Examination Preparation

Examination Content
content outline. Each question on the examination is
To begin preparation in an informed and organized linked to the examination-content outline and is also
manner, one should know what to expect from the categorized according to the level of complexity or
actual examination in terms of content. Information the cognitive level that a candidate would likely use
regarding the content of the examination is to respond. The exam content is current/accepted
presented in this handbook. The content outline will practices as of May of the present year’s exam.
give you a general impression of the examination
and, with closer inspection, can give you specific The following types of questions are included:
study direction by revealing the relative importance
given to each category on the examination. • Recall: The ability to recall or recognize specific
information.
The content of the examination is directly linked to a
• Application: The ability to comprehend, relate, or
job task analysis that identified the activities performed
apply knowledge to new or changing situations.
by menopause practitioners. Only those activities
that were judged by menopause practitioners to be • Analysis: The ability to analyze and synthesize
important to practice are included on the examination- information, determine solutions, and/or
evaluate the usefulness of a solution.

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Sample Questions 4. After prescribing menopause hormone
The following sample questions are provided to therapy (17 Beta- estradiol 1mg and micronized
give candidates some idea of the format of the progesterone 100mg) to a patient who is 4 years
multiplechoice examination: after her final menstrual period, she returns for
her 6 month follow up visit. She reports new onset
1. A woman experiences induced menopause after? vaginal bleeding and you perform an endometrial
biopsy. The results come back showing:
A. Risk reducing surgery for BRCA 1 mutation “proliferative endometrium”. What is the best
B. Chest wall radiation course of action?

C. Hysterectomy with ovarian preservation A. Advise that she should stop the menopause
hormone therapy.
2. A recently postmenopausal woman (age B. Increase the dose of the micronized
50, with an intact uterus) has vaginal atrophy. progesterone.
She has accepted a prescription for local C. Switch the 17- Beta estradiol to a
dehydroepiandrosterone. Which of the following is transdermal route for better absorption.
the appropriate course of action?
5. A patient with a strong family history of dementia
A. Prescribe a progestogen.
presents to your office asking about menopause
B. Counsel her that discharge is expected. hormone therapy (MHT) for prevention. She does
C. Recommend consuming one serving of soy not have any vasomotor symptoms but is worried
foods weekly. about her risk of developing dementia. How do you
counsel her?
3. Which of the following is a risk factor for
A. Advise her that MHT is not indicated for
postmenopausal osteoporosis?
dementia prevention.
A. Rheumatoid arthritis B. Prescribe her conjugated equine estrogen and
B. Inhaled corticosteroids bazedoxefine.
C. Obesity C. Prescribe donepezil to reduce the risk for
Alzheimer’s dementia.

Answer Key: 1–A 2–B 3–A 4–B 5–A

Study Advice
There is no study guide for the exam. However, The Statements and Other Reports, Practice Pearls,
Menopause Society publishes many professional and the Menopause A to Z Slide Set. Healthcare
education resources that may be helpful in professionals should also seek out additional
preparing for the exam. Menopause Practice: A information from other reputable sources as
Clinician’s Guide 6th edition is the Society’s most well. These may include information from other
current and comprehensive professional resource. professional associations and government sites
Additional The Menopause Society resources may involved with women’s health and related issues.
be found under the publications tab at Laboratory questions are listed as conventional
www.menopause.org and include: Position units not SI.

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Examination Content Outline B. Hair changes (1%)
and Knowledge Statements i. Estrogen and androgen impact
ii. Types of hair loss
The following is the outline of the examination, with
an indication of the percentage of questions that iii. Hair loss evaluations
come from each section. iv. Management of hair loss
v. Hair loss treatment options
1. Physiology/Pathophysiology of the C. Sleep changes (2%)
Menopause Transition (19%) i. Common factors in sleep changes (e.g.,
definition, terminology, demographics,
A. Definition and demographics (5%) prevalence, health outcomes)
i. Differences between menopause,
ii. Risk factors for sleep changes
menopause transition, and postmenopause
iii. Differential diagnosis (e.g., restless leg
ii. Mean age of menopause
syndrome, sleep apnea, insomnia)
iii. Prevalence
iv. Health-related outcomes of sleep changes
B. Stages of Reproductive Aging Workshop v. Treatments for sleep changes (e.g.,
(STRAW) (4%) behavioral, pharmacologic therapy)
i. Stages within STRAW
D. Sexual health (2%)
ii. Dominant symptoms during each STRAW i. Common factors in changes within sexual
stage heath during menopause (e.g., definition,
iii. Expected duration of STRAW stages prevalence, symptoms)
C. Physiology (5%) ii. Models of sexual response
i. Luteal out-of-phase (LOOP) events (e.g., iii. Neurobiology, hormones, and sexual
causes, symptoms) function
ii. Clinical impact of alterations in estrogen iv. Evaluation (e.g., sexual health screening,
and androgens (i.e., adrenal and ovarian) assessment)
iii. Fertility change (e.g., measures of ovarian v. Treatments for changes in sexual health
reserves) (e.g., pharmacologic therapy, pelvic floor
physical therapy, vibrators, psychotherapy)
D. Premature, primary ovarian insufficiency vi. Effects of hormone therapy on sexual function
(POI), and surgical menopause (5%)
i. Differential diagnosis of amenorrhea E. Breast symptoms (2%)
ii. POI (e.g., causes, fertility implications) i. Etiologies (e.g., breast pain, breast lump)
iii.Surgical menopause ii. Evaluation (e.g., history and physical, labs,
iv. Chemotherapy/radiation-induced biopsy guidelines, imaging)
menopause iii. Management (e.g., medical, surgical)
v. Clinical consequence of early estrogen loss F. Abnormal uterine bleeding (2%)
vi. Role for hormone therapy for POI and surgical i. Definition, prevalence, and risk factors
menopause (e.g., timing, length, dosing) ii. Classification and etiologies
iii. Evaluation (e.g., history and physical, labs,
2. Symptoms and Concerns (20%) biopsy guidelines, imaging)
iv. Management (e.g., medical, surgical)
A. Weight issues (2%)
i. Common factors of weight issues (e.g., G. Arthralgia (1%)
definition, prevalence, demographics, i. Definition, prevalence, and risk factors
terminology) ii. Differential diagnosis (e.g., arthritis,
ii. Weight evaluations fibromyalgia)
iii. Management of weight loss (e.g., diet, H. Vasomotor symptoms (VMS) (2%)
exercise) i. Vasomotor symptoms (e.g., definition,
iv. Pharmacologic therapy for weight loss terminology, proposed mechanisms)
v. Surgical options for weight loss ii. Prevalence of VMS (e.g., demographics)
iii. Risk factors of VMS
iv. Health-related outcomes

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 I. Genitourinary syndrome of menopause (GSM) (2%) E. Cardiovascular health (e.g., hypertension,
i. Genitourinary syndrome (e.g., definition, prevalence, hyperlipidemia, polycystic ovary syndrome) (3%)
symptoms) i. Prevalence and increased risk after menopause
ii. Etiology of GSM ii. General risk factors for cardiovascular disease (CVD)
iii. Evaluation of GSM iii. General assessment for CVD (e.g., BMI, waist
iv. Differential diagnosis of vulvar and vaginal symptoms circumference, BP, lipid profile, HbA1c)
(e.g., vaginitis, dermatoses, cancer, vulvar masses) iv. CVD risk assessment tools
v. Urinary tract infections v. Interventions (e.g., lifestyle, diet, medications [statins,
anti-hypertensives])
J. Pelvic floor disorders (2%)
i. Differential diagnosis of urinary incontinence vi. Effect of hormone therapy on lipid profile and HbA1c/
(e.g., stress, urge, mixed) glucose metabolism
ii. High tone pelvic floor dysfunction vii. The impact of timing of hormone therapy on
cardiovascular risk factors
iii. Management of pelvic floor disorders
F. Thromboembolic disorders (e.g., arterial and venous,
K. Cognitive and mood changes (2%)
i. Prevalence of cognitive and mood changes (e.g.,
inherited clotting disorders) (3%)
i. Thromboembolic disorders (e.g., definitions,
incidence, etiology)
symptoms)
ii. Impact of hormone therapy ii. Effect of hormone therapy (e.g., transdermal
versus oral)
3. Health Disorders in Midlife (21%)
G. Glucose intolerance (e.g., metabolic syndrome,
A. Thyroid disorders (2%) diabetes) (2%)
i. Hypothyroidism and hyperthyroidism i. Metabolic disorder and type 1 and type 2 diabetes
mellitus
ii. Diagnosis and monitoring of thyroid disease
ii. Risk factors (e.g., GDM, PCOS, genetics, obesity)
iii. Treatment options for thyroid disease
iv. Interactions with hormone therapy iii. Effect of hormone therapy

B. Headache (2%) H. Gallbladder disease (1%)

i. Types of headaches and classification (e.g., migraine i. Gall stones and cholecystitis
[with or without out aura], menstrual) ii. Effect of hormone therapy
ii. Impact of endogenous and exogenous hormones
I. Cancer (e.g., breast, endometrial, cervical, ovarian,
(e.g., hormone therapy versus combined hormonal
contraception)
lung, colorectal, skin, hereditary) (3%)
i. Breast cancer (i.e., risk factors, screening, effects of
iii. Treatment options (e.g., preventative, abortive) treatment [e.g., chemotherapy, radiation, AIs, SERMs]
C. Dementia (1%) on symptoms of menopause, hormone therapy
i. Risk factors for dementia considerations)
ii. Effect of hormone therapy on dementia ii. Endometrial cancer (i.e., risk factors and impact of
obesity, presentation, diagnostic work-up, hormone
D. Depression and anxiety (2%) therapy considerations)
i. Depressive symptoms and clinical diagnosis of major iii. Cervical cancer (i.e., risk factors, screening,
depressive episode prevention, vaccination)
ii. Anxiety symptoms and clinical diagnosis of iv. Ovarian cancer (i.e., risk factors, screening,
generalized anxiety disorder presentation, hormone therapy considerations)
iii. Other anxiety disorders (e.g., PTSD, OCD, panic v. Lung cancer (i.e., risk factors, screening, hormone
disorder) therapy considerations)
iv. “Window of vulnerability” for mood and anxiety vi. Colorectal cancer (i.e., risk factors, screening,
symptoms/disorders presentation, hormone therapy considerations)
v. Role of estrogen therapy and antidepressants vii. Skin cancer (i.e., risk factors, screening, prevention
(e.g., SSRI/SNRIs) viii. Hereditary cancer (i.e., “red flags,” counseling, testing
vi. Non-pharmacological treatments (e.g., CBT, and referral issues, common mutations [e.g., BRCA,
psychotherapies) HNPCC, FAP], role for risk-reducing surgery [e.g., breast,
ovarian cancer], effect of treatments on symptoms of
menopause, hormone therapy considerations)

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 ix. Prevention strategies for midlife cancer reduction B. Nonhormone options (5%)
(i.e., impact of lifestyle: diet, physical activity, i. Prescription options (e.g., SSRI, SNRI, gabapentin,
smoking, alcohol; use of OCPs and other oxybutynin, clonidine)
chemoprevention strategies)
C. Over-the-counter options (i.e., non-prescription
J. Osteoporosis/low bone mass (2%) options) (5%)
i. Osteoporosis and osteopenia (e.g., definitions, i. Most common options (e.g., herbals, vitamins)
screening, diagnosis) ii. Safety and efficacy of non-prescription options
ii. Effect of menopause on bone health iii. Moisturizers and lubricants for GSM
iii. Risk factors for low bone mass and fracture
iv. Tools available to calculate fracture risk (e.g., FRAX) D. Complementary and alternative medicine (4%)
i. Non-pharmacological interventions for VMS (e.g., CBT,
v. Knowledge of pharmacologic therapies for bone
exercise, yoga, acupuncture)
health (e.g., hormone therapy, bisphosphonates,
anabolics) ii. Non-pharmacological interventions GSM (e.g., pelvic
floor physical therapy, dilators)
vi. Fall prevention

5. Preventive Care and Counseling (19%)

4. Treatment Options for Common Menopause A. Immunizations (4%)
Symptoms (e.g., VMS, GSM) i. Benefits of immunization in midlife (e.g., shingles, flu,
pneumonia, HPV)
A. Hormone therapy (7%)
i. Indications for hormone therapy B. Sexually transmitted infections (5%)
ii. Contraindications i. Common sexually transmitted infections (e.g.,
chlamydia, GC, HSV, HPV, syphilis)
iii. Need for progestogen (endometrial protection)
ii. Symptoms, prevention, and screening (e.g.,
iv. Oral versus transdermal estrogens
counseling)
v. Duration of treatment
vi. Dosing (e.g., equivalence, continuous versus C. Psychosocial issues (5%)
sequential) i. Screening tools (e.g., eating disorder, substance use,
vii. Risks and side effects of hormone therapy intimate partner violence, anxiety/ depression)
viii. Types of systemic hormone therapy (e.g., estrogen, D. Diet and exercise (5%)
progesterone, SERMS, testosterone, tibolone) i. Healthy diet
ix. Local therapies (e.g., vaginal estrogen, DHEA) ii. Dietary supplements (e.g., vitamins, herbs,
x. Risks of compounded/non-approved hormone nutraceuticals)
therapy (e.g., pellets) iii. Exercise for healthy physical and mental wellbeing
and prevention of disease

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Frequently Asked Questions

Q: Am I eligible to sit the exam? Q: How do I maintain the certification

beyond the initial 3-year period?
A: All licensed healthcare professionals are
invited to sit the exam, including (among A: To maintain certification status, there are
others) the following specialists (listed two options—1) submit 15 The Menopause
alphabetically): nurse, nurse midwife, Society-sponsored CME hours plus 30 “other”
nurse practitioner, pharmacist, physician, Category 1 hours (for a total of 45 hours)
and physician assistant. A photocopy earned between the date of your exam
of your current medical license showing a future and the expiration of your certificate or 2)
expiration date is required with your application. reexamination. Additional information may be
found on page 8 of this handbook.

Q: How much does it cost to take the exam?

Q: How can I prepare for the exam?
A: The fee to sit the The Menopause Society
Certified Menopause Practitioner (MSCP) A: The Menopause Society has published many
competency exam is $375 for The Menopause resources and clinical practice materials that
Society members and $675 for nonmembers. To may be helpful in your preparation. However,
join the Society, please visit the Society does not produce a “study guide.”
www.menopause.org/membership.aspx To view the current list of available materials,
see The Menopause Society store at
www.menopause.org. Also, reviewing the
Q: What is the expiration date of the Content Outline in the Candidate Handbook
The Menopause Society Certified will provide you with an idea of what areas may
Practitioner credential? need additional study.

A: The credential is valid for three full years

after the first year in which you pass the Q: What is the deadline to apply
exam. After the first December 31 renewal to take the MSCP exam?
date, all credentials are due for renewal
three years later on December 31. The expiration A: Thirty days before the desired testing window
date will be indicated on your certificate. begins. Therefore, if you wish to take the exam
anytime in June, you must complete your
application by May 1. For an October test date, you
Q: Where do I apply to take the MSCP exam? must complete your application by August 31.

A: Applications can be submitted online at

https://www.menopause.org/for-professionals/ Q: Is there CME credits associated with the exam?
mscp-certification.
A: No, there is no CME credits associated with
the exam.
Q: Where do I find the requirements
for Live Remote Proctored Exams?
Q: If I fail the exam can I retake it in the same
A: The requirements can be found at testing window?
https://www.menopause.org/for-professionals/
mscp-certification. A: No, each candidate may take the exam only
once per testing window.

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30050 Chagrin Boulevard, Suite 120
Pepper Pike, OH 44124, USA

Telephone: 440/442-7537
Fax: 440/442-2660
Email: [email protected]

Website: www.menopause.org

Copyright © 2024 by The Menopause Society. All rights reserved.

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