Menopause Empowerment Guide | 4 What Can I Do About It? Hormone replacement therapy can be very helpful for many women, but it may not be right for everyone. It is important for each woman to speak with her physician to review her personal risks and benefits and then decide if this is the right path. The new guidance from The Menopause Society provides a great opportunity to explore the details with your own physician. I recommend you make an appointment to see your physician in person. Discussing your symptoms and concerns and asking questions in your doctor’s office is often more comfortable than asking over the telephone, computer, or text. Remember that your wonderful OBGYN, who has beautifully cared for you during your reproductive years, may NOT have received much training on menopause or feel comfortable discussing your options. You will most likely have to seek out someone with expertise in menopause care. Call ahead and ask if they are willing to discuss your menopause symptoms and therapeutic possibilities. Remember that this visit should not be a part of the “well-woman exam.” Insurance only pays for your annual visit as a cervical and breast cancer screening appointment. You need to make a problem visit to discuss menopause. Here Are Some Tips to Help You Prepare for Your Appointment. 1 Try to schedule the first appointment of the morning to ensure a fresh physician. Tell the staff about issues you would like to discuss so the scheduler knows to block off additional time. 2 Consider showing up to the appointment fasted (no food/ drink other than water after midnight). This will avoid any delay in testing requiring a fasted state. 3 Write down your family history of diseases and illnesses, which relative had them, and at what age. Your family history may help to determine if you are a good candidate for certain hormone therapies. 4 Keep a symptom journal, noting any changes to your health since your last visit, including new aches and pains, increased fatigue, hair loss, weight gain or loss, constipation, forgetfulness, depression, etc. 5 Write down the specific tests you would like, and what symptoms you have that would make testing these levels a good idea. Your family history could qualify you for certain medical tests you may not otherwise be qualified for. For example, if you have fatigue and a family history of hypothyroidism, your physician can utilize that diagnostic code and increase your chances of insurance covering the test. 6 Consider your preferences for managing your symptoms and long-term health, e.g., hormone therapy (HT), an herbal approach, and changes in your lifestyle. It’s your choice, and you’ll want to ask your provider for their opinion based on your medical history.