How to talk to your GP about perimenopause

If you suspect perimenopause and want to discuss it with your regular GP, the biggest practical problem is time. An 8–15 minute appointment isn't built for a 30-symptom syndrome. A bit of preparation tilts the odds.

Before the appointment

Write down your top three most disruptive symptoms (specific, with examples — "waking 4× per night for 6 months" beats "sleeping badly"). Note when they started. List anything you've already tried. Bring a brief medical history (medications, surgeries, family history of breast cancer or osteoporosis).

How to open

"I think I'm going through perimenopause and I'd like to discuss management options. I've been experiencing X, Y, and Z. I want to understand what's hormonal, what tests might help, and what treatment options might suit my situation." Direct, structured, gives your GP a clear ask.

What to push back on (kindly)

Some common dismissals worth addressing politely. "You're too young" — perimenopause can begin in the late 30s or early 40s. "It's just stress" — stress can be a contributor but doesn't explain hot flushes, joint aches, or specific cycle changes. "You don't need treatment unless symptoms are severe" — severity is the patient's call, not the doctor's.

When to seek a different doctor

If your GP is uncomfortable with hormone therapy and won't refer you to someone who is, that's a reasonable signal to look elsewhere. The Australasian Menopause Society maintains a register of doctors with menopause expertise. Fusenite Hormone Health is another option — explicitly built around 45-minute consults and the time to discuss all of this properly.

This is general health information and not medical advice. Your doctor will discuss your specific situation during a consultation.