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“DOCTOR, JUST GIVE IT TO ME STRAIGHT”
By Beverly Mahone
Finding the right doctor is
one of the most important decisions a woman can make as she is entering
into menopause. This transition of life is one that requires a physician
who will candidly discuss what it all means as well as offer all of the
alternative forms of treatment. Often times, treatment of menopause
results in anti-depressive medication or unnecessary hysterectomies.
Years ago, menopause was as taboo as mental illness. There was a stigma
attached to women going through "the change." In his book, (published
1966), Dr. Robert A. Wilson wrote, "Many women endure the passing years
with cow-like passivity and disinter; and a disturbingly high number
take refuge in sleeping pills, alcohol and sometimes even in
suicide...The tragedy of menopause often destroys her character as well
as her health." It was that kind of attitude, from a so-called expert,
that forced many women to suffer in silence, for fear of being ridiculed
or labeled as crazy because of their hormonal imbalance.
But in this day and age, there is no reason women have to sit back and
suffer in silence. The menopausal years are a time for us to take charge
of their lives. When deciding on the right doctor, you should ask the
following questions:
1) What is
your Health Care Practioner's training in menopause and in aging?
2) How
knowledgeable is he or she about the menopause transition?
3) What
classes on menopause and on aging have they attended or taught recently?
(You want a health care professional who's up to date on current
treatments)
4) Can you
talk to your doctor openly?
5) Does he
or she explain things in a way you can understand?
6) Is
he/she willing to consult with other professionals on alternative
treatments?
7) Does
your health care provider give you information to help increase your
knowledge about menopause?
8) Does
he/she review the pros and cons of Estrogen Replacement Therapy and
Hormone Replacement Therapy?
9) Does
he/she discuss the side-effects of synthetic drugs?
10) Is your
health care provider readily available? Having to wait a month or more
may not help you.
Remember, it's your body. Keep asking questions until you get the
answers you're seeking so you can make a wise decision about your
healthcare.
Beverly Mahone is an author
and baby boomer expert who writes about midlife issues in her book:
Whatever! A Baby Boomer’s Journey Into Middle Age. For more information
and other articles written by Ms. Mahone, visit her website at:
www.talk2bev.com
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