Validation: The Clinician’s Superpower & Strategies For Patients
“Many participants in our research reported being told that their concerns were unrelated to menopause because they were “too young” or still having periods.”
— Nancy Fugate Woods, PhD, RN, FAAN
Women often report that their menopause-related concerns are not well supported by healthcare professionals. They feel they are not listened to, taken seriously, or brushed off. Some report being told that their concerns were unrelated to perimenopause because they were “too young” or still having periods.
At the Translational Science Symposium on Midlife Wellbeing held in advance of the 2021 Annual Meeting of the North American Menopause Society, Dr. Nancy Woods, Emerita Professor and former Dean of the Nursing School University of Washington, Seattle, shared ideas to help providers better communicate with patients to make them feel heard and supported.
In addition, Dr. Woods shared four strategies for patients to enhance their experience during this normal life transition and get the care they desire.
4 Strategies For A Better Menopause Experience
- Seek the experience of others and trusted sources to learn what is ahead in the menopause transition. Freely share your experiences with others. It will help!
- If any symptoms or other health concerns interfere with activities of daily living or relationships, reach out to a healthcare professional.
- Don’t give up on finding a healthcare provider who will collaborate with you, listen to and validate your feelings and experiences and information about this critical life stage and transition.
- Think broadly about the type of provider. For example, nurse practitioners and nurse midwives can be an excellent alternative to a physician. You can search for a NAMS Certified Menopause Practitioner through The North American Menopause Society website.
Efforts made by both the patient and provider can improve healthcare interactions during on the path to menopause.
This information was presented at the Translational Science Symposium “Charting the Path to Health in Midlife and Beyond: The Biology and Practice of Wellness” held in advance of the 2021 Annual Meeting of The North American Menopause Society in Washington, DC. Excerpts from the Translational Science Symposium are presented as part of the Live From #NAMS2021: The Latest Breakthroughs in Women’s Midlife Wellness series published by Women Living Better and Lisa Health with permission from NAMS.
Please visit Lisa Health and Women Living Better to find more information and recommendations from top experts in menopause, midlife health, and healthy aging.
