Standing Tall © lynette sheppard
7 Top Tips for “The Menopause Chat” with Your MD
When it comes to navigating perimenopause and menopause, your healthcare practitioner can either be a lifeline or a barrier. Many women leave consultations feeling dismissed, unheard, or simply misinformed. But with the right approach and preparation, The Menopause Chat can become a turning point in your health journey. Here are seven top tips, inspired by insights from Dr Kelly Teagle, to help you walk into your primary care appointment feeling prepared, empowered, and ready to be heard.
1. Do Your Homework Beforehand
Preparation is Power
Before you walk into the clinic, take some time to gather your thoughts. What are your top three symptoms that are currently impacting your quality of life? Is it night sweats, brain fog, vaginal dryness, mood swings or a mix of all? Identify them clearly and jot them down.
Utilize trusted resources like the Australasian Menopause Society’s Symptom Score Sheet or Jean Hailes for Women’s Health to document how often and how severely these symptoms appear. Don’t rely on memory alone, written data helps your GP understand the scope of your concerns.
Once your key symptoms are logged, do a bit of reading. Investigate the most up-to-date and evidence-based treatment options. Having a broad understanding helps you feel confident and gives you a foundation to ask informed questions. Being well-read doesn’t replace a doctor’s expertise but it does make you a stronger advocate for yourself.
2. Be Assertive, Not Aggressive
Communicate with Confidence-Not Conflict
Walking into a doctor’s office armed with research can feel empowering, but there’s a fine line between being assertive and coming across as combative. While it’s tempting to wave printouts and demand a specific prescription, such an approach can create defensiveness and shut down productive dialog.
Dr Kelly Teagle reminds us that healthcare practitioners are trained to critically assess medical evidence and individualize care. While your research is valid and valuable, your goal should be collaboration not confrontation. Think of your MD or NP as a partner, not an opponent.
Say things like, “I’ve done some reading and I’d like your thoughts on these options,” instead of, “I know what I need, just write the script.” This opens the door for shared decision-making and more respectful communication. Your voice matters but tone, timing, and mutual respect can make all the difference in being heard and validated.
3. Know Your Medical and Family History
It’s All Connected
Understanding your full medical background including your family history is critical to receiving safe, tailored treatment. For example, if your mother or sister had breast cancer, this might affect your healthcare practitioner’s advice about hormone replacement therapy (HRT). Or, if blood pressure issues run in your family, your MD or NP may need to screen you more regularly.
Don’t assume your practitioner remembers everything from past visits, especially if it’s been years or if you’ve changed practices. Bring a summary list of your current medications (including supplements and herbal treatments), past surgeries, diagnoses, and any relevant test results.
Conditions like migraines, clotting disorders, or autoimmune issues can influence what treatments are safe for you. Also, don’t forget to mention any alternative therapies you’re trying. They might interact with prescribed medications. Armed with the right background, your practitioner can provide a more accurate and responsible treatment plan that aligns with your personal health history.
4. Be Open-Minded About Treatment Options
The Best Option May Surprise You
Many women come to The Menopause Chat expecting a very specific outcome often based on a blog post or anecdotal advice from a friend. But menopause is complex, and no one-size-fits-all treatment exists. Your trusted healthcare practitioner might suggest something you’ve never heard of, or even something you’ve been told to avoid.
Rather than shutting down those suggestions, hear them out. Doctors who specialize in menopause often have access to newer, safer treatments and up-to-date research. You might find that an option you previously feared like HRT is actually safer than you thought, especially with modern formulations and risk-screening protocols.
Being open to alternatives doesn’t mean giving up control. You are still in charge of what goes into your body. But staying receptive to discussion broadens your options and increases the chance of finding a solution that genuinely improves your wellbeing. After all, good healthcare starts with good conversations and good conversations require an open mind.
5. Don’t Settle for “It’s Just Part of Aging”
Advocate for Yourself When You Know Something’s Off
If your MD or NP says things like, “This will pass in a couple of years,” or “Just put up with it,” that’s your cue to seek a second opinion. Menopause may be a natural phase of life, but suffering through it unnecessarily isn’t. And while many healthcare practitioners are compassionate and informed, others may not be up to date with the latest in menopausal care.
Don’t feel guilty about walking away if your needs aren’t being met. It’s your body, your symptoms, and your life that’s being affected. Whether it’s difficulty sleeping, painful sex, irritability, or weight changes. Those symptoms matter. You deserve better than being brushed off.
Consider seeking support through Telehealth services like WellFemme or menopause specialists in your area. They can provide detailed assessments and work in tandem with your regular practitioner. Remember: there is help out there, and you don’t have to go through this alone.
6. Plan the Chat Like a Mini Presentation
Time is Short So Make it Count
Most appointments last around 10–15 minutes. If you try to tackle everything at once, you may leave feeling rushed and overwhelmed. Instead, think of your menopause chat as a mini presentation structured, focused, and goal-oriented.
Start by briefly stating your main concern: “I’ve been struggling with severe hot flushes and insomnia for the past six months.” Follow with your top 3 symptoms and how they’re affecting your life. Then, mention any treatments or strategies you’ve already tried whether they’ve worked or not.
From there, ask for your healthcare practitioner’s input. Try questions like, “What treatment options are available for me?” or “Are there any lifestyle changes you’d recommend?” Having a clear outline helps your MD or NP understand what you’re dealing with and helps you get the most from the limited time you have.
Finally, if time runs out, don’t hesitate to book a follow-up. Some issues are worth a longer discussion.
7. Use Your Support Network and Keep Learning
You’re Not Alone Tap into Community and Resources
Menopause can feel isolating, but remember that millions of women are going through the same transition. Engaging with community groups, online forums, or support services can help you feel understood and often gives practical tips that doctors might overlook.
Websites like Jean Hailes, The Australasian Menopause Society, and The Balance Menopause by Dr Louise Newson are all great places to continue learning about treatment options, emotional support, and lifestyle adaptations.
You may even discover lesser-known solutions that support your menopausal journey, such as gi revive or targeted nutritional support for managing fatigue and muscle mass changes.
Also, keep a symptom journal to track your progress. It will help you communicate changes clearly in future appointments and adjust your treatment plan more effectively. And don’t underestimate the power of sharing talking openly with friends, sisters, or colleagues can offer both emotional relief and helpful perspective.
Final Thoughts: Your Health, Your Terms
Navigating menopause doesn’t have to feel like an uphill battle. With preparation, clarity, and confidence, you can turn The Menopause Chat into a pivotal moment that sets the stage for better health and a smoother transition.
