Perimenopause and Menopause: Questions to Bring to Your GP
Perimenopause can feel confusing because symptoms often start while periods are still happening. Hot flushes, night sweats, sleep disruption, mood changes, brain fog, joint aches, vaginal dryness, low libido and heavier or more irregular periods can all affect quality of life. A GP can help work out what is menopause-related, what else needs checking, and what treatment options fit your health and preferences.
Why this matters
Menopause care is not only about hormones. It is also about bleeding patterns, contraception, bone health, heart risk, breast screening, cervical screening, sexual comfort, mental health, sleep, weight changes and the practical reality of work and family life. Some symptoms are common, but that does not mean they should be dismissed.
A few helpful terms
· Perimenopause: The transition years before menopause, when hormones fluctuate and periods may change.
· Menopause: Defined after 12 months without a period, when not explained by another cause.
· MHT: Menopausal hormone therapy, sometimes used for symptoms after individual risk discussion.
Common reasons to book a GP appointment
· You have hot flushes, night sweats, poor sleep or mood changes.
· Periods have become heavier, closer together, further apart or unpredictable.
· Sex is painful, libido has changed, or vaginal dryness is affecting comfort.
· You want to discuss menopausal hormone therapy, non-hormonal options or vaginal oestrogen.
· You are not sure whether you still need contraception.
What we can talk through together
Your GP may ask about cycle changes, symptoms, sleep, mood, sexual health, contraception, migraines, clot risk, breast cancer history, family history, blood pressure, cardiovascular risk and medications. Blood tests are not always helpful in typical perimenopause, but they may be needed if symptoms are early, unusual or there are other concerns. Treatment options can include lifestyle strategies, menopausal hormone therapy, non-hormonal medications, vaginal treatments, pelvic floor physiotherapy and mental health support.
What to expect at the appointment
A good menopause consultation should include benefits and risks in plain language. If MHT is considered, your GP will look at the type, dose, route and whether you need progesterone as well as oestrogen. If bleeding is unusual, especially after menopause, investigation may be needed before assuming it is just hormones.
How to prepare
Track periods and symptoms for a few months if possible. Bring your medication list, family history, breast screening history, migraine history and the main symptoms you most want improved.
Care close to home in Maroubra and the Eastern Suburbs
Dr Amanda Henderson is a GP consulting at GP Maroubra, 14 Meagher Ave, South Maroubra NSW 2035. At GP Maroubra, she provides family-focused general practice care across pregnancy and pre-pregnancy health, shared antenatal care, women's health, contraception, paediatrics, skin checks, lifestyle medicine, travel medicine, men's health and preventive care. Patients commonly look for local care from Maroubra, South Maroubra, Coogee, Randwick, Malabar, Matraville, Pagewood and nearby parts of Sydney's Eastern Suburbs.
Choosing a GP is personal. It is reasonable to consider location, appointment availability, communication style, continuity and whether the services offered fit the reason you are booking. The aim is to help you feel prepared for a useful appointment and to know when a concern needs more urgent attention.
When to seek urgent help
Book promptly for bleeding after menopause, bleeding after sex, very heavy bleeding, pelvic pain, breast lumps, chest pain, sudden neurological symptoms or severe depression. Call 000 for life-threatening symptoms.
Common questions
Do I need a blood test to diagnose menopause?
Often no, especially in the usual age range with typical symptoms. Your GP can advise when tests are useful.
Is MHT safe?
It depends on your age, time since menopause, symptoms, medical history and type of treatment. A GP can discuss your personal risks and benefits.
Do I still need contraception in perimenopause?
Possibly. Periods can be irregular while ovulation still occurs. Ask your GP before stopping contraception.
Can menopause affect mood and sleep?
Yes. Hormonal changes, life stress and poor sleep can all interact. Treatment may involve more than one approach.
Further reading from trusted Australian sources
Practical next step
If this sounds like the help you need, book a GP appointment with Dr Amanda Henderson at GP Maroubra. A longer appointment is usually best if the issue is complex, emotional, involves paperwork, or includes more than one concern. Appointments can be made online or by calling GP Maroubra on (02) 9311 9311 during practice opening hours.
General information only: This information is general and does not replace a consultation with a doctor who knows your history. Health advice can change, and your own risks may be different. In an emergency, call 000.