She had been to her GP three times in six months. Each time she left with a different referral — a cardiologist for the palpitations, a psychiatrist for the anxiety, a sleep specialist for the insomnia. Nobody connected the dots. Nobody said perimenopause. This is not an unusual story. Many Australian women spend years and thousands of dollars investigating symptoms that are, at their root, hormonal.
Why GP Appointments Often Miss Perimenopause
Perimenopause is a clinical diagnosis — there is no single definitive blood test. Symptoms are diverse and overlap with many other conditions. GP appointments are typically 15 minutes. And historically, women's hormonal health has been undertreated and underfunded. The result is that many women are not diagnosed for years.
💡 🇦🇺 Good news: From July 2025, Australian women can access a Medicare-rebated Menopause Health Assessment — a dedicated longer appointment specifically for discussing perimenopause and menopause symptoms and treatment options. Ask your GP about this.
How to Prepare for Your Appointment
- 1Track your symptoms for 2–4 weeks before your appointment — note which symptoms you experience, how often, and how severely
- 2Use our free Perimenopause Symptom Checker to generate a printable GP report
- 3Write down your menstrual history — when cycles started changing, how they have changed
- 4List all medications and supplements you are currently taking
- 5Prepare your questions in advance (see below)
What to Say
Be direct. You do not need to minimise your symptoms or apologise for taking up time. Some helpful phrases: 'I believe I may be in perimenopause and I would like to discuss this.' 'My symptoms are significantly affecting my quality of life.' 'I would like to discuss all treatment options, including hormone therapy.'
Questions to Ask Your GP
- 'Could my symptoms be related to perimenopause?'
- 'What investigations would you recommend?'
- 'What are my treatment options, including MHT?'
- 'Am I eligible for the Medicare Menopause Health Assessment?'
- 'If you are not experienced in menopause management, could you refer me to someone who is?'
If You Are Not Getting the Support You Need
You are entitled to a second opinion. The Australasian Menopause Society (AMS) has a directory of healthcare providers with specific expertise in menopause management. Telehealth services specialising in women's hormonal health are also increasingly available across Australia.