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Talking to Your Doctor About Treatment

Print this page before your appointment. Type or write your answers as you talk — the fields are editable on screen too.

Questions marked ⚠️ are especially important if you have risk factors — migraine with aura, BMI 30+, or family history of breast cancer.

1. Is hormone therapy right for me — given my symptoms and my health history? If not, why?
2. ⚠️ Which delivery method would you recommend — patch, gel, or pill — and why?
3. Which progestogen are you planning to prescribe — micronized progesterone or a synthetic one? And why that one?
4. ⚠️ What are the specific risks for me — given my family history, weight, and lifestyle? What are the absolute numbers?
5. How often do I need to come in for review? What tests or screenings do I need while I'm on therapy?
1. I've tried lifestyle changes (exercise, sleep hygiene, nutrition adjustments) and they haven't been enough. What non-hormonal prescription options would you recommend for my specific symptoms?
2. I've read about newer non-hormonal prescription medications for hot flashes — including NK3R antagonists like fezolinetant. Are any of these available here and appropriate for me?
3. Are there any supplements where the evidence is encouraging enough that you'd consider recommending them — for example, magnesium for sleep or a standardized isoflavone product for mild hot flashes?
If your doctor dismisses your concerns:
"I understand this might not be your area of expertise. Could you refer me to a doctor who specializes in menopause?"
If they suggest only an antidepressant without discussing other options:
"I'd like to understand why you're recommending an antidepressant rather than MHT. Can we discuss both options and compare them for my situation?"
If they say "let's wait and see":
"I'd like to understand what specific criteria we'd need to see before revisiting this conversation. Can we set a clear timeline — say, three to six months — so I know when to come back?"