Preparing to Speak with Your GP or Gynecologist About Menopause

Should I Make an Appointment?

For many years, menopause symptoms were often endured in silence, dismissed as “just part of life.” This mindset has prevented countless individuals from seeking the care they need, believing they had no other choice but to tolerate the changes. Thankfully, more people today are breaking that silence and consulting their healthcare providers about menopause symptoms.

In Canada, while there may not be strict medical guidelines about when to seek help, it’s a good idea to talk to your doctor if menopause or perimenopause symptoms are affecting your quality of life. Whether your symptoms are mild or severe, a conversation with your general practitioner (GP) or gynecologist can clarify your options and provide reassurance. Even if treatment isn’t immediately required, discussing your symptoms can help you understand what’s happening in your body.

Preparing for the Appointment

To make the most of your consultation, it’s helpful to prepare ahead of time. Writing down your symptoms and questions can ensure you cover everything you want to discuss and provide your doctor with a clearer picture of your experience. Here are some key areas to consider:

• Hot flashes and night sweats: When did they start? How often do they occur, and how long do they last?
• Sexual health: Are you experiencing vaginal dryness, pain, or changes in libido?
• Menstruation: Have your periods become irregular, lighter, heavier, or unpredictable?
• Mental health: Are you dealing with brain fog, forgetfulness, mood swings, anxiety, or irritability?
• General health: Have you noticed insomnia, weight changes, hair thinning, or heart palpitations?

Preparing this information in advance will help guide the conversation and enable your doctor to provide better support.

What Should I Expect from My Doctor?

Your appointment should be a safe space to address your concerns. While each consultation is unique, here’s what you should expect:

What You Should Expect:

• ✔ Questions about your symptoms, lifestyle, and health history
• ✔ Clear explanations of how your symptoms relate to menopause
• ✔ Information on possible treatment options, including their benefits and risks
• ✔ A discussion about hormone replacement therapy (HRT) and its safety
• ✔ Suggestions for lifestyle changes or alternative support strategies

What You Should Not Expect:

• ✘ Dismissing your symptoms as unimportant
• ✘ Minimizing menopause as “just a phase”
• ✘ Discouraging evidence-based treatments, such as HRT
• ✘ Recommending unproven or non-scientific remedies
• ✘ Ignoring your concerns or challenges

Your experience is valid, and you deserve to be heard. A supportive doctor will take your symptoms seriously and offer options tailored to your individual needs.

What Other Support Is Available Before Making an Appointment?

Feeling nervous about your appointment is natural. Bringing along a trusted friend or family member for emotional support can help ease your anxiety. While your doctor may want to discuss certain topics privately, it’s entirely your choice to have someone present during the consultation.

Educating yourself about menopause can also boost your confidence. Many reliable Canadian online resources, articles, and support groups offer information to help you feel more prepared for your visit.

Finding Additional Support

If you’re seeking more resources, consider reaching out to a healthcare provider or organizations that specialize in menopause. Across Canada, there are growing communities and initiatives focused on providing guidance and support for those experiencing menopause.

Empower yourself with knowledge and connect with trusted professionals who can guide you through this important phase of life. With the right care and information, you can confidently navigate menopause and maintain your well-being.