Questions to ask at a perimenopause appointment

01 / What you want to understand

Understanding what is changing

You do not need to explain why something is happening before you bring it up. Start with the changes you want to describe and the words you want help understanding.

• How can we talk through the changes I have noticed without assuming a cause?
• What would you like to know about when these changes started?
• Which parts of my health history would help our conversation?
• What information would help you consider my questions about perimenopause?
• Could you explain any unfamiliar words you use today?

02 / Notes to bring

Tracking and what to bring

Use any notes you already have as a starting point. You can ask what would be useful to record next without committing to a detailed daily routine.

• Which details in my notes would you like me to explain first?
• Would approximate dates help when I cannot remember exactly when something changed?
• What would be useful for me to write down between visits?
• Are there records or documents you would like me to bring next time?
• How does the practice prefer to receive notes before an appointment?

03 / A conversation about choices

Options to discuss

Leave space to record what your clinician explains. These questions open a conversation about choices; the list does not tell you which option to choose.

• What options could we discuss in light of my priorities?
• What would you like me to understand about each option?
• What questions should I ask about possible benefits and risks?
• Where can I read the information you want me to review?
• If I need more time to think, how can we continue this conversation?

04 / Your ordinary day

Everyday life: sleep, mood and work

If these topics are on your mind, choose the questions that fit your experience. An ordinary-day example can give you a concrete way to describe what you want to discuss.

• How can I describe what I have noticed about my sleep?
• What would you like to know about changes I have noticed in my mood?
• Can we talk about how my concerns affect my workday?
• Would examples from home, caregiving or relationships help me explain my concerns?
• How can I make clear which part of daily life matters most to me?

05 / What works for your visit

Your practical priorities

Your questions can include the practical side of care. Bring up anything you want considered in the conversation, including time, cost, communication or the details you feel comfortable sharing.

• Can we start with the concern I most want to discuss today?
• If we run out of time, how can we return to my remaining questions?
• What should I ask the practice about costs or insurance coverage?
• Can I have the information we discuss in writing to review later?
• How can I ask to discuss a personal concern privately?

06 / Keep the next step clear

Follow-up and next steps

Keep a space beside these questions for what the clinician or practice tells you. Mark anything you still need clarified so it stays separate from an agreed instruction.

• Could we review the plan so I can write it down in my own words?
• What is the next step we have agreed, and who will arrange it?
• What timing should I record for any follow-up we discuss?
• Who should I contact if I have a question after this visit?
• Where can I find the visit summary or written instructions afterward?

07 / Make it your own

How to use this list

Pick your top three questions and put the most important first. Rewrite them in words you would naturally use. Keep any remaining questions underneath so you can return to them if there is time.

Bring notes on what changed and when, along with an example of how it affected your day. Approximate dates can stay approximate. For more help gathering your notes, use the appointment-preparation guide. Afterward, the after-appointment notes guide offers a place to organize your understanding of the conversation.