Menopause is a natural part of life, but it can feel daunting, especially when it comes to discussing it with your doctor.
Having an open, informed conversation with your GP is crucial whether you’re just starting to notice changes or are well into the transition. But where do you even start? Here’s a guide to help you get the most out of your consultation, with steps to take, questions to ask, and tips for ensuring you receive the support you need.
1. Write down all of your symptoms
Before your appointment, take some time to reflect on your symptoms and concerns. Menopause can bring a wide range of physical and emotional changes, from hot flushes to mood swings, and even unexpected symptoms like joint pain or sleep disturbances. Keeping a diary of these symptoms, noting their frequency and severity, can provide valuable insights for your doctor, explains gynaecologist and author of Blood, Dr Jen Gunter.
“When people come in and see me, they generally have a lot of stuff going on; it’s not as simple as ‘I hurt my toe’, so you need to write them all down.”
Even if you have a laundry list of symptoms, she suggests coming armed with your top three concerns instead of trying to get through all of them in one visit.
“Just like if you had a plumber come to your house and they had a certain amount of time, they’re not going to be able to get to a list of 12 things you have wrong with your home. You need to ask yourself what needs to be done today to stop your house from flooding,” she explains.
“When there are many symptoms, sometimes, if you take care of one or two things at the top of the list, things at the bottom tend to disappear.”
Writing down any questions or worries ahead of time also reduces the likelihood of forgetting anything, especially if you’re feeling anxious.
2. Do some research
Before you see your GP, it’s helpful to do some research so you know what to expect during menopause. Plenty of reputable sources, such as the Australasian Menopause Society and Jean Hailes for Women’s Health, provide evidence-based information you can trust.
In Australia, the average age of menopause is 51 years, but it’s normal to enter menopause anywhere between 45 and 55 years – although some women experience it at an earlier or later age. Symptoms can last anywhere from a few months to several years, making it crucial to understand what’s normal and what might require attention.
Bring along any articles or research you’ve found helpful and discuss them with your GP, which can help guide the conversation.
“Look at the guidelines to see if you fall into a category of somebody that hormone treatments might be good or if you fall into the category of somebody that non-hormonal therapies might be more appropriate,” Dr Gunter advises.
“If the doctor says no, pull out the guidelines and say, ‘Well, the Australasian Menopause Society says this, and you’re telling me something different, so can you please explain the discrepancy?’”
3. Choose the right doctor
When booking your appointment, let the receptionist know you’d like to book a longer consultation instead of the standard, which is generally only 15 minutes. This allows the practice to allocate sufficient time, ensuring you don’t feel rushed.
If you aren’t comfortable discussing this with your current GP or you’d rather see someone specialising in menopause, you can find a local doctor with a special interest in women’s health in midlife with this handy search tool. Alternatively, ask a friend for a recommendation.
“Ask your friends, ‘What was your experience with your doctor?’ You want someone who’s going to mesh with your style and someone you’re comfortable talking to.”
4. Don’t be embarrassed
Menopause can be a personal and sometimes uncomfortable topic, but remember, your doctor is there to help – and has likely heard it all before. Start by sharing the symptoms you’ve been experiencing and how they’re affecting your daily life. Be honest, even if some symptoms feel embarrassing. Your doctor needs the full picture to provide the best advice.
It’s okay to say you’re feeling nervous about the discussion. A good GP will be understanding and put you at ease.
5. Ask the right questions
To make sure you cover all bases, here are some essential questions to ask during your consultation:
- What other symptoms should I expect, and how long might they last?
- Are there lifestyle changes I can make to ease my symptoms?
- What treatments are available, and what are the pros and cons of each?
- How will menopause affect my long-term health, and how can I protect it?
- Do I need any specific tests or screenings?
Remember, no question is too small or silly. Menopause is a complex transition, and understanding it fully will help you manage it more effectively.
If your symptoms are severe or if you have other health conditions, ask your GP for a referral to a menopause specialist.
6. Remember it’s a marathon, not a sprint
Menopause is an ongoing process, and your symptoms and needs may change over time. Don’t hesitate to book follow-up appointments to discuss new concerns or adjust your treatment plan. Staying in regular contact with your GP ensures you’re always on top of your health during this transition.
And as for those supplements you might see on social media? Dr Gunter suggests giving them a wide berth.
“Supplements claiming they help menopause symptoms are all junk. If anybody talks to you about balancing your hormones, then run in the other direction because that’s a made-up term and is usually a segue into selling you snake oil.”
By being prepared, doing your research, asking the right questions, and seeking the support you need, you can take control of your health and wellbeing – without having a meltdown in the process.
Blood: The Science, medicine and Mythology of Menstruation by Dr Jen Gunter, published by Hachette, is available now.
