How to talk about uncomfortable menopause symptoms

The clinical definition of the word menopause refers to a specific point in time—12 consecutive months after a person’s last menstrual period. However, the term is often used to refer to menopausal transition or perimenopause, the years leading up to that point in time.

During perimenopause, the female physiology undergoes numerous changes. The levels of estrogen in the body fluctuate and decline. Menstrual cycles become irregular. Interest in sex can decline, or sexual intimacy may become uncomfortable. Many people experience vasomotor symptoms (commonly known as hot flashes and night sweats), changes in mood and sleep patterns, and abnormal bleeding.

Perimenopause symptoms can be treated

Although perimenopause is a natural and normal process and not a health condition, the things a person experiences because of perimenopause are often referred to as symptoms. And there are treatments that can help ease and manage these symptoms.

Treatment for perimenopause symptoms begins by working with a healthcare provider. However, some of the symptoms of perimenopause can be uncomfortable or difficult to discuss, even in a setting like a healthcare appointment.

Know that it’s perfectly normal to feel this way when discussing certain symptoms or changes that are happening. Also know that there are things you can do that can help you feel more comfortable during a healthcare appointment.

Tips for discussing topics you feel uncomfortable about

If initiating a conversation about certain symptoms with a healthcare provider seems daunting, here are some strategies to consider:

• Clearly state your goals. Before your appointment, identify the specific symptoms or concerns you would like to address. Make discussing these symptoms or concerns your top priority for the appointment. Keeping a goal in mind can help you stay focused.
• Remember that healthcare providers are experienced. Healthcare providers have a lot of knowledge and experience in dealing with symptoms that can be considered uncomfortable. Even if your symptoms and concerns are new to you, your healthcare provider has seen them before.
• Use conversation starters. Sometimes the most difficult part is just bringing up an uncomfortable topic. Before your appointment, consider writing down the first sentence or a few talking points to start the conversation.
• Be honest about being uncomfortable. You can also let your healthcare provider know that you feel uncomfortable discussing certain topics. Opening up about these feelings can act as a bridge to the symptoms or concerns you want to discuss. Additionally, your healthcare provider may have strategies or suggestions to help you feel more at ease.

Finding the right healthcare provider

If you feel your concerns are not being taken seriously by your healthcare provider, or you feel that you are facing judgment from your healthcare provider, consider meeting with a different healthcare provider.

Menopause is a time in a person’s life where quality healthcare can make an important difference. This includes managing symptoms like vasomotor symptoms (VMS), changes in mood, and sleep. It also includes recommended exams and tests related to other areas of your health—for example, cardiovascular disease and osteoporosis are common in the years after menopause.

Open and honest communication with your healthcare provider is key to understanding your health and getting the appropriate treatment and support that you need.