Mayo Clinic Health Manager

Get free personalized health guidance for you and your family.

Get Started

Free

E-Newsletter

Subscribe to receive the latest updates on health topics. About our newsletters

  • Housecall
  • Alzheimer's caregiving
  • Living with cancer

Preparing for your appointment

By Mayo Clinic staff

You'll probably start by discussing your symptoms with your primary care provider. If you aren't already seeing a gynecologist, your doctor may refer you to one.

What you can do
By monitoring your menstrual cycle and recording your signs and symptoms for several months, you'll gain a better understanding of the changes occurring during perimenopause. You'll also have valuable information to share with your doctor.

Appointments can be brief. To make the best use of the limited time, plan ahead and make lists of important information, including:

  • Detailed descriptions of all your symptoms
  • Names and dosages of all medications you take, including nonprescription drugs and supplements
  • Questions for your doctor, such as what treatment options are available

Questions your doctor may ask
To facilitate a discussion about your perimenopausal experience, your doctor may ask questions such as:

  • Do you continue to have menstrual periods?
  • What symptoms are you experiencing?
  • How long have you experienced these symptoms?
  • How much distress do your symptoms cause you?
  • What medications or vitamin supplements do you take?

DS00554

Sept. 16, 2008

© 1998-2009 Mayo Foundation for Medical Education and Research (MFMER). All rights reserved. A single copy of these materials may be reprinted for noncommercial personal use only. "Mayo," "Mayo Clinic," "MayoClinic.com," "EmbodyHealth," "Reliable tools for healthier lives," "Enhance your life," and the triple-shield Mayo Clinic logo are trademarks of Mayo Foundation for Medical Education and Research.

Print Share Reprints

Text Size: smaller largerlarger