Booking a GP appointment to talk about your menopausal symptoms can feel a bit intimidating. It’s not always easy to speak up for yourself and generally women find it hard to advocate for themselves, especially when life is so busy. Menopause symptoms can be different for everyone, which can make it tricky to explain everything clearly. Plus, with the time pressures our NHS doctors often face, it can be hard to have a really in-depth conversation about the risks and benefits of personalised treatment. But don’t worry – with a little preparation, you can make the most of your appointment. Here are some tips to help you feel confident and ready when discussing your menopause symptoms with your doctor.
How to prepare?
Tell a friend your plans to see a doctor. It can be hard to get an appointment, especially with the 8am rush to book a slot, so having someone to hold you accountable and make sure you get that appointment can be really helpful.
Ask if there is a GP or clinician at your GP practice who has a special interest or has completed specialist menopause training.
If seeking healthcare and support privately, check the British Menopause Society (BMS) website to ensure the clinic or clinician is a recognized provider.
Track your symptoms (consider using a symptom tracker). There are many examples of these, but the Green Climacteric Score is a useful tool.
Read up on NHS national guidance before your appointment so you know what to expect from your consultation. (Refer to NG23 for guidance.)
During your appointment:
Write down what you want to discuss.
Tick through your points during the consultation.
Take a friend or family member.
Ask questions and repeat back what you’ve heard to clarify.
Ask about the risks, benefits, and side effects.
Ask your doctor to explain their reasoning.
Request a second opinion. If you're disappointed with the outcome, ask for another appointment, perhaps with a different clinician. As healthcare providers, we understand it’s not personal, and it’s important to ensure you feel heard and supported in your journey.
In our clinic appointments focus is on understanding how menopause symptoms are affecting women’s quality of life through thoughtful, structured conversations. It can be tough for women to connect all the different symptoms and explain them clearly, especially when there’s so much going on. It is important that women access the right support and feel more confident in speaking up for themselves. The goal is to empower women to take control of their health, ensuring they feel informed and ready to move forward.
Good luck with the appointment!
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