Menopause can be complicated. There are lots of physical symptoms to navigate and a range of emotional challenges. It’s important to have open and honest communication with your healthcare providers so they can help you find the best ways for you to start feeling better. But sometimes navigating the healthcare system and using your time wisely during an appointment can be tough. We’re here to help.
In this article, we’ll provide practical tips and tricks to help you effectively communicate with healthcare providers, understand how to navigate the healthcare system, advocate for yourself, and build positive relationships with your providers during the menopausal transition.
What’s the best way to communicate with your healthcare providers?
Depending on the technology available, there may be many ways to communicate with your provider. It’s best to ask what they prefer (and ask what options are available). Some may prefer phone calls or seeing you in person, while others may want you to reach out to them through a secure messaging portal.
If you're using a secure messaging portal with your doctor, it can be helpful for some things — like if you have a quick question that a nurse or someone who helps the doctor can answer. But don't send too many messages because you don't want to bother the doctor or ask questions that can’t be answered via the portal.
It's better to write down all your questions and concerns and bring them to your appointment. Some doctors may want you to send them a list of your questions or a health summary a day or two before your appointment. This way, they can look at it before you meet. But make sure to ask your doctor if they want you to do this first. Every doctor has their own way of running their clinic.
How to make the most of your healthcare visit
There are many things you can do to help make the most of your (and your provider’s) time during an office or telehealth visit.
- Write down your questions. Before your visit, take time to write down any questions you have about your health or menopause symptoms. This can help you remember the important questions you want to ask and any information you want to share.
- Bring any relevant medical records or test results with you (either paper or digital). These records help your provider get a better understanding of your health history. Before the appointment, ask your provider’s office if they would like those records sent ahead of time.
- Be honest about your symptoms and overall experience. Don't be afraid to share even the most personal details — your providers have seen and heard it all! The more information your healthcare provider has, the better they can help you.
- Take notes during your visit. It can be helpful to take notes so you can remember what you talked about with your provider. This can be especially useful if you're seeing multiple healthcare providers about a variety of different menopause symptoms.
- Consider bringing someone else with you. If you feel like it’s hard for you to remember what your provider says and/or take notes, you could consider bringing a loved one with you to help you remember what was said.
How to navigate the healthcare system during menopause
Navigating the healthcare system can often be a complex and challenging process, especially during menopause. There may be a variety of healthcare providers who can help you with menopause, and it can be confusing to know who to see.
- Understand what different healthcare providers can do to help you. This can include your primary care provider, a gynecologist, an endocrinologist, or a mental health professional. Knowing who can help you with which symptoms can help you to know who to reach out to and when. If you’re not sure where to start, an appointment with your primary care provider is a good first step.
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Learn about different treatment options. There are many different treatment options available for menopause symptoms. Some common treatments include:
- Hormone therapy or other non-hormonal medications for hot flashes. This may help manage hot flashes and night sweats.
- Antidepressants. These may help manage mood swings and low mood.
- Sleep medication. This may help manage symptoms of sleeplessness.
- Lifestyle changes. Improving your habits around diet, exercise, and stress management may also help improve menopause symptoms.
- Work together with your healthcare provider. The best way to manage menopause is to work together with your healthcare provider. They can help you create a treatment plan that’s right for you and can help monitor your progress over time.
Remember, you’re not alone. Millions of people in the US are experiencing menopause every year and there are resources and healthcare providers who can help you.
How to talk to your healthcare provider about your menopause symptoms
It’s important to be able to explain how you’re feeling so you can get the care you need during the menopausal transition. Here are some tips to help you talk about your symptoms:
- Use words that are easy for your healthcare provider to understand. Also try to be as specific as you can. For example, instead of saying “I feel weird every morning”, you could say “Every morning, I wake up with some brain fog and really struggle to start my day.”
- Keep a diary of your menopause symptoms. Write down which symptoms you’re experiencing, when they happen, how bad they are, and anything else you’ve noticed about them. This detailed record can help your provider better see what’s going on.
- Be ready to talk about how your symptoms are affecting your life. For example, do any of your symptoms make it hard for you to sleep, work, or do things you enjoy? Are you avoiding doing certain things because of your menopause symptoms?
- Ask questions if you don’t understand something. Your healthcare providers are there to help you, so don’t be afraid to ask questions about your symptoms, treatment options, or anything else. Your provider wants to work with you, so you can make the best informed decisions about your health.
How to advocate for what you need
To be an effective advocate for yourself, you have to be honest about your concerns and what you need. Here are some tips to make sure you get when you need:
- Be brave and tell your providers what’s important to you. Don’t be afraid to ask questions. If you feel that your concerns aren’t being taken seriously, consider getting a second opinion from another healthcare provider.
- Bring a friend or family member to your appointments. They can provide emotional support and help you remember what the healthcare provider said. They can also take notes for you, so you can forget important information after the appointment.
- You know your body and what you’re going through better than anyone else. By speaking up for what you need, you can make sure you get the care and support you need during menopause.
How to build a supportive relationship with your healthcare provider
Open and honest communication forms the foundation of any strong relationship, including the one between you and your healthcare providers. Here are a few things you can do to build a good relationship with your healthcare providers:
- Be on time for your appointments and come prepared. This shows that you respect your provider’s time and expertise.
- Be kind and treat them with respect. Remember, they’re trying to help you stay healthy and feel your best.
- Work together to find solutions that work for you. Your provider knows a lot about health, but you know a lot about yourself. Working together, you can find solutions that align with your needs and preferences.
- Express your appreciation for their care and support. This can make them feel good and strengthen your relationship. Who doesn’t like to hear that they’re appreciated?
Building a supportive relationship with your healthcare providers is a two-way street. By considering the tips above, you can help make your menopause care experience better. Working together, you and your healthcare providers can create a positive and collaborative environment that can make your menopause care experience the best it can be.
