“Menopause is the springtime of our wisdom.” – Margaret Mead, anthropologist

What Your Doctor Should Be Telling You About Perimenopause—Start by Asking These 10 Questions

"Let's be real—perimenopause is not for the faint of heart. One day you’re crushing life, and the next you’re Googling “why am I sweating at 3 a.m.?” like it’s a full-time job."

Between hot flashes, mood swings, brain fog, and the ever-changing mystery that is your period, this season can feel like riding a hormonal rollercoaster… blindfolded. If you’re feeling overwhelmed or dismissed, you’re not alone—and you’re definitely not imagining things.

Why It’s Important to Be Your Own Advocate

You deserve answers. You deserve to be taken seriously. And you deserve care that sees the whole you—not just a number on a chart or a box to check off on a clinic form.

Being your own health advocate means showing up prepared, informed, and unafraid to ask questions. Because yes, your voice matters in that exam room.

10 Must-Ask Questions for Your Doctor

Not sure where to start? I’ve got you covered. Here are 10 essential questions to ask your healthcare provider:

1. What exactly are common perimenopause symptoms, and what are the best ways to manage them?

2. How can I tell if what I’m experiencing is “normal” or if it needs further investigation?

3. What specific tests or screenings can help confirm perimenopause and rule out other health conditions?

4. What treatments or therapies are available to help manage symptoms like hot flashes, mood swings, and vaginal dryness?

5. Can we discuss hormone therapy—what are its benefits, risks, and is it appropriate for my situation?

6. Are there lifestyle adjustments or natural remedies that could ease my symptoms and support my overall health?

7. How will perimenopause affect my sexual health, and what can I do to keep intimacy comfortable and enjoyable?

8. What should I be doing right now to protect my bone density, heart health, and long-term wellness?

9. How often should I schedule check-ups or hormone testing during this transition?

10. Can you recommend trusted resources, books, or support groups for navigating perimenopause?

My Story: Finding the Right Doctor (And Then Starting All Over Again)

When I hit perimenopause, I knew I needed a provider who got it. So I did the research, found a hormone-literate expert, and walked into my doctor’s office like the CEO of my own health. “This is who I want to be referred to,” I said—and that was that.

And it worked. I finally felt seen, heard, and supported.

But then… I moved. To a whole new province.

So here I am again, back in the wild world of waitlists and rushed appointments. I do have a specialist right now—but let’s just say bedside manner isn’t his strength. He’s out the door before I’ve finished my sentence. Last time, I actually timed it. Five minutes. Total. For a hormonal consult. Ridiculous.

So yes, even as someone who knows what to ask and how to advocate, this part is still hard. I’m currently on a waitlist for a doctor who truly gets women’s hormones—and I’m crossing every finger that the right care is just around the corner.

Because that’s the thing: your provider can make or break your perimenopause experience. And you are so allowed to keep looking until you find someone who listens, lingers, and doesn’t treat your health like a speed date.

Tips for a Successful Doctor’s Visit

"It's time to stop normalizing the suffering in menopause." ~ Dr. Sharon Malone

Remember, these questions are just a launching point. Feel free to dive deeper into topics that concern you personally. No question is too small or insignificant, so speak up and own your appointment!

If you feel rushed, dismissed, or unheard, it's completely okay to seek another opinion or find a specialist who truly listens. Bring a notepad, ask for written materials, or even take a trusted friend along—whatever helps you feel confident and supported.

Also, don’t underestimate the power of education. Reading books and educating yourself about perimenopause will boost your confidence and equip you to recognize when your doctor isn’t stepping up.

Tips for a Successful Doctor’s Visit

✨ Bring a list of your symptoms.
✨ Don’t be afraid to push for answers.
✨ Take notes—or bring someone who will.
✨ Ask for printed info or patient resources.
✨ If you feel dismissed, find someone new. Seriously.

Remember: you're the expert on your body. If something feels off, that’s enough reason to speak up.

Bonus Tip: Knowledge is Power

Read the books. Listen to the podcasts. Follow hormone-savvy experts. The more you know, the more confident you’ll feel—and the quicker you’ll spot it when your provider isn’t giving you the care you need.

You might also love these related reads:

• 🔗 Decoding Perimenopause: The Key Tests Every Woman Needs for Hormonal Clarity

• 🔗 Top Signs of Perimenopause: What Every Woman Should Know (and a Few That Might Surprise You!)

Final Word: Trust Yourself

Perimenopause isn’t just something to “get through.” It’s your chance to step into your power, take charge of your well-being, and advocate fiercely for the care you deserve.

So yes, keep asking questions. Keep believing your symptoms. Keep demanding better. Because you are not a burden—you are a badass in the middle of a major transformation.

Ready to Feel More Informed and Empowered?

If you’re nodding along thinking, “This is me,” then grab my free guide: “Perimenopause Power Moves: 5 Simple Nutrition Shifts to Help You Feel Like Yourself Again

It’s packed with practical advice, symptom support, and the exact tools I wish I had when I started this journey—including ways to prepare for your doctor’s visit, questions to ask, and how to advocate for the care you deserve.

✨ Because this transition doesn’t come with a manual… but now, it kind of does.

👉 Download the free guide here and take back your power.

Hormonally Yours,

Kimberlee Erin

Just a heads-up: I’m a Certified Menopause Coaching Specialist and Holistic Nutritionist, and while I love sharing what’s worked for me and my clients, this blog is for informational purposes only. It’s not a substitute for medical advice. Always check in with your healthcare provider before starting new supplements, hormones, or treatments—especially since every woman’s perimenopause journey is different. You deserve personalized care that truly fits you.