A short appointment goes much further when you arrive prepared. A few weeks of notes and a short list of questions help your doctor see the whole picture, and help you leave with a plan.
In short
- Write down your symptoms, your cycle and how they affect your life for a few weeks before.
- Bring 3 to 5 questions, most important first.
- Over 45, a diagnosis can usually be made from your symptoms, without blood tests.
Before the appointment, write down
- Your cycle: dates, length and how heavy.
- Your symptoms: what, how often and how strong (sleep, night sweats, mood, brain fog, palpitations, joint pain…).
- How they affect you: work, sleep, relationships.
- Medicines and supplements you take, with doses.
- Family history: early menopause, breast cancer, heart disease, blood clots.
- What you'd like: to understand what's happening, to try treatment, or to rule out other causes.
Questions you can ask
- Could my symptoms be perimenopause?
- Do I need any tests, and why?
- What are my options, with and without hormones?
- Is HRT suitable for me, and what are the benefits and risks for me personally?
- What can help my sleep or mood right now?
- Do I still need contraception?
- When should I come back?
During the appointment
Start with the symptom that bothers you most. Show your notes. It's OK to say “this is affecting my life”. If you feel rushed, ask for a longer or follow-up appointment, or ask whether a doctor or nurse with a special interest in menopause is available.
When to see a doctor
Don't wait for a planned appointment if you have very heavy bleeding, bleeding between periods or after sex, any bleeding after 12 months without a period, palpitations with chest pain or breathlessness, or low mood that feels hard to cope with.
Frequently asked questions
Do I need a blood test for perimenopause?
Usually not if you're over 45. Hormones fluctuate too much for one test to be reliable.
What if my doctor says I'm too young?
Ask what else could explain your symptoms, and ask to be referred if needed. See Perimenopause at 40.
Can I bring someone with me?
Yes. A partner or friend can help you remember what was said.
Your notes, ready for the doctor
Pausie turns your diary into a clear PDF for your doctor: cycle, symptoms, medicines and supplements with doses, and your questions for the visit. No account, and your diary stays on your phone.
This article is general information, not medical advice. Written by the Pausie team. Published and last reviewed 30 October 2026.
Sources
- EMAS Menopause Essentials: Diagnostic tests for menopause
- EMAS Menopause Essentials: Assessing symptoms and needs
- Cleveland Clinic: Perimenopause