Own Your Menopause Appointment: 5 Tips from a GP

The menopause care gap

Menopause symptoms are all too real, yet, far too many women find themselves ‘toughing it out’ without proper medical care. Researchers from Yale University reviewed insurance claims from over 500,000 women in various stages of menopause. They found that while 60% of women with significant menopausal symptoms seek medical attention, 75% leave their appointments untreated(1).

This lack of care is not an isolated issue. Our State of Menopause Survey showed a similarly troubling situation in Australia and New Zealand. In conversations with their healthcare provider about their menopause symptoms, 40% of women were offered no treatment options.

The reality is that many GPs simply don’t receive enough education on menopause.

To get the care you need, you must advocate for yourself. Knowledge is power, and preparation is key. Dr. Middleton shares five proactive steps you can take to make the most of your appointment and increase your chances of leaving with a treatment plan that works for you.

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01

Find a Menopause-Specific Healthcare Professional

Not all GPs are equipped with the latest information on menopause. To ensure you receive the best care, consider finding a menopause or women’s health-specific doctor.

The Australasian Menopause Society offers a directory of several doctors who are certified menopause practitioners, specialising in the treatment of menopausal women. These specialists are more likely to be up to date on the latest research and treatment options, ensuring you receive informed and effective care. Check out the Australasian Menopause Society’s directory here(3).

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02

Align Your Doctor Choice with Your Preferences

Your preferences matter, and it’s important to find a doctor who respects them.

If you are interested in incorporating natural remedies into your treatment plan, consider seeking out an integrative doctor. Regardless of your preferences, your provider should craft a treatment plan that is suited to your individual needs.

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03

Document Your Family Medical History

Your close female relatives' menopause experiences can provide valuable insights into your own journey.

In addition to symptoms, it’s essential to gather details on diseases that run in your family, such as heart disease, Alzheimer’s, and osteoporosis. “Sharing this with your doctor helps tailor the right preventative measures,” adds Dr. Middleton.

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04

Clarify Your Personal Preferences

Before your appointment, take some time to think about your treatment preferences. Would you consider hormone therapy, and if so, is your doctor willing to prescribe HRT, or would you prefer to explore non-hormonal options? Are you open to lifestyle modifications like diet and exercise changes?

Having a sense of your desired outcome will empower you during the consultation and help guide the discussion toward a plan that suits your needs.

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05

Track Your Menopausal Symptoms

Consider keeping a symptom journal to track changes in your health. Note any fluctuations in mental health, hot flushes, stress levels, sleep, aches and pains, fatigue, weight and memory.

The Greene Climacteric Scale is another valuable tool, helping practitioners assess and prioritise treatment for symptoms like anxiety, night sweats, and vaginal dryness. Dr. Middleton adds, “Bringing a completed symptom scorecard to your appointment ensures your doctor has a clear understanding of what’s most affecting your quality of life.”

Here’s how the Greene Scale breaks down:

Rate each symptom as follows: 0 for none, 1 for mild, 2 for moderate, and 3 for severe.

Bring this completed scale to your appointment. It’s a simple, yet effective way to ensure that your doctor has a clear picture of what you’re experiencing and can provide the most appropriate care.

It is completely normal to feel nervous going into your appointment. Having a clear and concise list of your symptoms will help you maximise your appointment and ensure you don't forget anything. If a standard 10-minute appointment is insufficient for addressing all your concerns, request a double appointment for more time or book a follow-up appointment.

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06

Take Charge of Your Menopause Journey

Menopause affects every woman differently, and no single set of symptoms defines the experience.

Healthcare professionals who are knowledgeable in women’s health will help you weigh your preferences with the risks and benefits of each option. Your preparation—whether it’s selecting the right doctor, considering your family history, or clarifying your treatment preferences—will ensure you make the most of your consultation.

“It’s about more than just managing symptoms,” Dr. Middleton concludes. “It’s about empowering women to take control of their health during a critical phase of life.”