It’s important to find a doctor who understands menopause. This is less obvious than it seems, as many medical schools consider menopause coursework elective. As a result, 80% of OB-GYN residents say they feel uncomfortable discussing menopause. Given that most women will live 30 years beyond menopause, you deserve a doctor who can provide optimal care before, during, and after this transition.
The North American Menopause Society (NAMS) established a set of standards for healthcare providers to ensure quality care for women throughout menopause. NAMS practitioners take specific coursework and must pass a competency exam to be a NAMS Certified Menopause Practitioner (NCMP).
Please answer the questions to complete the symptoms checklist. While not a diagnostic tool, it is a printable resource to share with your doctor to have an informed discussion about perimenopause.