The HRT Diaries: how to talk to your GP about perimenopause (with a checklist)

I had it all planned. Every symptom, in order. Then I sat down, the GP said “So, what brings you in today?” and I said “Oh, I am just a bit tired.” Ten minutes later I was back in the car park, furious with myself.

The moment

GP appointments are short, and perimenopause brain fog does not help. You know you are not yourself, but when it is your turn, the hot flushes, the 3am wake-ups, the rage and the forgetting all shrink into “a bit tired”.

Why it matters

• Early advice helps. The NHS says early advice can help reduce the effects of menopause and perimenopause on your health, relationships and work.
• There are real options. Depending on your symptoms, your GP may talk to you about HRT, CBT, or non-hormonal treatments.
• Some symptoms always need checking. The NHS says to see a GP about palpitations, periods that are getting heavier rather than lighter, or any bleeding after 12 months without a period.

Try this: the checklist

Write these down and take them with you, or show the GP your phone:

• My main symptoms (top three first): for example brain fog, night sweats, low mood
• How long I have had them, and whether they are getting worse
• My periods: date of the last one, and any changes in how often or how heavy
• How it affects me: work, sleep, relationships, confidence
• What I have tried so far, and whether it helped
• My questions: Could this be perimenopause? Is HRT right for me? What else could help?

1. Lead with the impact. “I am not coping at work” lands harder than “I feel a bit off”.
2. Bring your tracking. A week of the Brain Fog Log or sleep notes is gold.
3. Ask for a longer or double appointment if your surgery offers them.
4. Ask about a menopause specialist if things are not improving.

Track it

Start a symptom record now with our free Brain Fog Log, then copy the summary for your GP. Join the club for the printable GP checklist.

Sources: NHS: Symptoms of menopause and perimenopause; NHS: Treatment; NHS: Things you can do. This post is personal experience and general information, not medical advice.