How to talk to your doctor about menopause

Are you navigating menopause or perimenopause and feeling anxious about discussing it with your GP? It's common to worry about sharing all the necessary information, from symptoms to investigations to treatment preferences. Making informed decisions, especially regarding hormone replacement therapy, is crucial. For a productive GP appointment, being prepared is key. Hormone and menopause specialist Dr. Katie Hodgkinson provides some tips to help you.

Perimenopause vs menopause

Perimenopause, menopause and post-menopause are stages in a woman’s life that occur as women age due to the natural decline of ovarian function, where oestrogen production decreases and ovulation stops. This impacts the hormones of the menstrual cycle, resulting in monthly periods coming to an end and bringing about other associated changes, signalling the end of a woman’s fertility.

Perimenopause also referred to as the 'menopause transition', is the first stage of this process. It usually begins 4-10 years before menopause and lasts until menopause. Menopause is the point when the ovaries stop releasing eggs and when a woman has gone without a menstrual period for 12 consecutive months. Discover how to know if you’re starting menopause and common signs of perimenopause.

Did you know? Hormonal changes marking the beginning of the menopause can start years before the menopause. In fact, it is not uncommon for these changes to start in your late 30s or a decade before your actual menopause. Get menopause ready in your 30s.

Preparation before your appointment

Keep a symptom diary - even if you are not sure if your symptoms are linked to hormones; note how long you have had them, if they are linked to your menstrual cycle, and any factors that make them worse. Discover the 12 most common symptoms of menopause and 8 unusual signs of the menopause.
Note your period history - any changes to your cycle length, the heaviness of periods, any period pain or random bleeding and the first day of your last period. You may be interested in reading more about perimenopause periods and what to look out for or learn the signs of an unhealthy period and when to contact a doctor.
Document gynaecological history - from any gynaecology diagnosis made, contraception, side effects of hormonal medication, last smear test / mammogram and any abnormal results.
Note current and past medical problems, prescribed and over the counter medication taken and any supplements, family history (including cancer, heart disease, osteoporosis and early menopause) and lifestyle e.g. diet, alcohol, smoking and stress.
Prepare questions to ask in the consultation.
When booking the consultation specify that you would like to discuss possible perimenopause / menopause symptoms - sometimes there may be an option to book a longer consultation if needed.

During the consultation

Clearly describe your symptoms and their impact.
Inquire about necessary tests to investigate causes of your symptoms (including non-menopausal causes) and referrals.
Discuss treatment options, including HRT options, benefits, any risks and potential side effects, and any non-medical alternatives. You may be interested in reading 'A survey into the effectiveness of HRT'.
Seek advice on suggested lifestyle changes.
Ensure you understand the advice given and ask questions if you are not sure about anything, or if there is anything that hasn’t been covered. Make notes if needed and ask about where to research further if you need more information/time to think about options.
Discuss a suggested time frame for booking a review consultation.