Make the Most of Menopause: Tips on Finding a Doctor, Red Flags, & Non-HRT Options

Pause To Go Podcast: What You Need to Know About Menopause and Midlife Transitions

Welcome to this fourth episode in a series on Menopausal Hormone Therapy. Today, we're getting into the nitty-gritty of selecting the right healthcare provider for your menopause journey, recognizing the warning signs when it's time to reconsider your current provider, and exploring effective non-hormonal treatment options.

Join me as we discuss how to navigate these crucial decisions with confidence and a bit of humor. Whether you're curious about non-hormonal therapies or just need some tips on communicating with your doctor, this episode is packed with everything you need to feel empowered and informed. Let's embark on this journey together!

Timestamps:

00:00:00 - Introduction and Episode Overview

00:01:11 - Finding the Right Medical Care during Perimenopause

00:02:19 - Navigating the North American Menopause Society Resources

00:03:01 - Key Points to Consider in Your Doctor's Visits

00:04:25 - The Importance of a Comfortable Doctor-Patient Relationship

00:05:36 - How to Support the Podcast

00:05:45 - Recognizing When to Seek a Second Opinion

00:08:14 - Signs Your Healthcare Provider Might Not Be the Best Fit

00:09:30 - Exploring Non-Hormonal Treatment Options

00:10:00 - The Role of Lifestyle Changes and Mind-Body Techniques

00:12:05 - EFT Tapping and Hypnotherapy: Alternative Approaches

00:13:07 - A Deep Dive into Herbal and Natural Remedies

00:18:30 - Discussing Non-Hormonal Pharmaceuticals

00:19:26 - Reflecting on the Menopause Journey

00:21:06 - Announcing the Launch of the Awkward Sage Network

00:22:25 - Free Downloadable Resource for Talking to Medical Providers

00:23:04 - Closing Remarks

Key Quotes:

• "Menopause isn't just a phase or a series of symptoms; it's a significant transition in our lives..."
• "Finding the right menopause informed doctor is about doing your research, asking the right questions, and trusting your instincts."
• "You're not just another appointment on their schedule. Your experiences and symptoms are valid and important."

References:

• North American Menopause Society (NAMS)
  • Website: menopause.org
  • For finding NAMS Certified Menopause Practitioners and general guidance on menopause care.
• National Institutes of Health (NIH)
  • Website: nih.gov
  • Provided information on diet, exercise, and non-hormonal medications in menopause management.
• National Center for Complementary and Integrative Health (NCCIH)
  • Website: nccih.nih.gov
  • Served as a source for information on the effectiveness and safety of alternative treatments like black cohosh and mind-body techniques.
• Reveri Hypnotherapy App
  • Website: Reveri Health
  • An app offering guided hypnotherapy sessions that can be beneficial for menopause symptom management.
• The Tapping Solution App (EFT)
  • Website: The Tapping Solution
  • Provides Emotional Freedom Techniques (EFT) Tapping resources which can be useful for stress relief and emotional well-being during menopause.
• The Vagenda by Jen Gunter (Substack Newsletter)
  • Website: Jen Gunter's Substack
  • For insights and evidence-based information on women's health, including menopause.
• Buy Me a Coffee (Support Link)
  • Website: Buy Me a Coffee
  • Support the Pause to Go Podcast -- every little bit counts!
• Pause to Go (Mailing List and Resources)
  • Website: Pausetogo.com
  • For joining your mailing list and accessing resources like the "5 Tips for Talking to Your Medical Care Provider About Perimenopause and Menopause" PDF.