How is it that—during one of the most challenging points in our lives—we’ve decided it’s OK not to talk about the obvious?
A recent survey conducted by Wyeth Pharmaceuticals showed that there are plenty of women out there who don’t talk to their doctor about menopause symptoms. It’s kind of sad. Women view their symptoms as a normal part of getting older. And that’s partly true. But women don’t talk to their doctors because they are embarrassed and feel that nothing can be done. Half of the women surveyed felt it is still taboo in our society to acknowledge symptoms of menopause.
Where does that attitude come from? The news is filled with all kinds of stories regarding politicians, celebrities, and sports figures of a highly personal nature. Women are discussing all of these. Yet, when it comes to their own bodies, mum’s the word.
Wyeth also surveyed health care professionals, 73% of whom felt that society was more comfortable talking about male physical sexual problems than female. That’s probably why 85% also agreed that there are more medicines available to help men.
I know. Trips to the gynecologist are already awkward. But we’re talking about our health here! Do I want to admit to having hot flashes, mood swings or problems in the bedroom? No, but if I can’t talk to my doctor, how will I get answers?
Women need to get past the embarrassment. Before going to the doctor, make a list of questions, do a little research on your symptoms and make a point of being heard. If you aren’t making that connection with your current doctor, keep looking until you find one that is right for you.
Until women can speak their minds and share their thoughts on this issue, things are not going to change.
{ 4 comments… read them below or add one }
Maybe those survey takers should come to my bunco group. We always talk about our symptoms.
I do talk to my doctor. However, she's my age and very skinny and doesn't seem to need to wear a rubber band around her while to secure her hair while flashing. I don't see how women can avoid talking about it. Perhaps encouraging them to continue to visit their doctors annually, they will become more comfortable.
Heck…I am always eager to talk to my doctor about menopause when I visit him. I always hope he has some type of food or supplement that came out or something that helps with my symptoms.
I switched docs when I got the sense that my old doc couldn’t talk about menopause beyond writing a prescription for hrt (not for me). Write down questions, be clear at the beginning of the appt. that you want to talk, and don’t feel bad about switching docs — supportive ones are out there! Here is a good article on Talking to your doctor about menopause
I couldn’t agree more. Many women feel a sense of obligation to their doctor because they’ve been seeing them for years. However, things change and you need someone who is going to change along with you. There are many patient, supportive and knowledgeable doctors who recognize menopause for what it is. And really want to work with their patients to find the right type of treatments to help relieve their individual menopause symptoms.