How to talk to your doctor about Menopause
Navigating Your Menopause Journey: How to Talk to Your Doctor About Menopause Symptoms
Going through menopause can be a complex and sometimes overwhelming experience. With the array of symptoms, medical terms, and the often limited time with healthcare professionals, it can feel challenging to have productive conversations and ensure your concerns are addressed during appointments.
That’s why we’ve created this resource to help bridge the gap in information exchange between you and your healthcare provider when discussing menopause symptoms and treatment options. Our goal is simple: to provide you with clear, trustworthy information that will support you in preparing for your next doctor visit.
To get ready for your appointment, follow along with this article and take notes to bring with you. For added support, you can download and print our accompanying worksheet, which will help you organize the information you need for your appointment.
Be an Advocate for Your Health
When it comes to your health, knowledge is power, and you know your body best. This guide, along with the worksheet, will empower you to take charge of your health during menopause.
It’s important to thank your doctor for their support and express your interest in playing an active role in your healthcare decisions. Let them know that you are eager to work together as a team to find solutions that work for you. If you feel dismissed or that your concerns are not being adequately addressed, remember that you have the right to seek care from another provider who is willing to collaborate with you.
Determine Your Goals for This Appointment
You may have limited time with your doctor, so having a clear goal for your appointment will make it easier for your clinician to understand exactly what you need.
First, identify if this is a new clinician you’re meeting for the first time, or if it’s a follow-up with someone you’ve been working with. Depending on this, the goals of your appointment may vary.
Here are some examples of appointment goals:
Menopause Symptom History
Prepare for your conversation by listing out your symptoms related to menopause. The more information you can provide, the easier it will be for your clinician to understand your situation and recommend appropriate treatment options.
Some helpful information to include on the accompanying worksheet:
- A timeline of when your symptoms began and how they have progressed.
- Details on the severity and frequency of your symptoms, such as hot flashes, sleep disturbances, mood changes, and others.
- Any treatments you’ve tried, including how effective they were.
If this is a new clinician, gather any relevant medical records or test results that may help.
Prepare Questions for Your Doctor
Maximize the value of your time with your doctor by having a list of questions ready. Here are some examples of questions you may want to ask:
- What is the most likely cause of my symptoms?
- Are there other possible explanations for my symptoms?
- Do I need any tests to confirm the diagnosis? If so, how and when will they be done?
- What treatment options do you recommend, and what are the potential side effects?
- If the first treatment doesn’t work, what alternatives can we consider?
- How long should I expect to be on this treatment?
- What are the long-term implications of these symptoms on my overall health?
- Are there lifestyle changes I can make to help manage my symptoms?
- Should I see a specialist, like a gynecologist or endocrinologist?
List Out Medications and/or Supplements
Make sure to list all the medications and supplements you’re currently taking so you can discuss them with your clinician. Include this information on the accompanying worksheet.
If it’s easier, you can also bring the bottles or ingredient lists to your appointment.
Prepare for Their Questions
Just as you have questions for your doctor, they will likely have questions for you as well. Here are some common questions you might be asked:
- When did you first notice your menopause symptoms?
- How have these symptoms affected your daily life?
- Have you tried any treatments or lifestyle changes to manage your symptoms? If so, what has been effective?
- Do you have any other health conditions that could be impacting your symptoms?
- Are you currently taking any hormones or hormone replacement therapy (HRT)?
- Have you experienced any side effects from previous treatments?
- Are you experiencing any mental health concerns, such as anxiety or depression, related to menopause?
- Do you have a family history of menopause symptoms or related conditions?
- What are your primary concerns about menopause and your health?
You've Got This! Remember to bring your printed worksheet to the appointment and be an advocate for your health. You have the power to make a difference in your menopause journey.
