How many times have you walked out of a medical appointment thinking, "Damn, I forgot to ask that" or "Why didn't I speak up about my real symptoms?"
I think there's a correlation between doctor appointment and brain fog, must be (kidding...). I think we've all been there, to be honest I'm still sometimes in this situation. And when you're not forgetting things you minimize your pain, or tell yourself (aaand the doctor) maybe it's not that serious after all.
Here's the thing: 51% of women have experienced having their symptoms dismissed by healthcare professionals. Nearly half have had their pain attributed to "just stress" without proper investigation. Yes, I'm an anxious lady. But still man...
I've started to preach the fact that we should always go to an appointment with a checklist. First I've noted all my questions on a small post it. Yup, ridiculous.
Then a piece of paper (I'm a fast learner). But I'm lazy. And it annoyed me to write yet again the same questions.
Then a piece of paper (I'm a fast learner). But I'm lazy. And it annoyed me to write yet again the same questions.
You know where this is going :
Yay! I created a form to reuse. For me. And then I said to myself, let's do it for you too.
Here it is : my own non-certified but helpful form to print form to bring to the doc (in french for now)
This checklist will help you walk into your next appointment prepared and hopefully, more confident.
This checklist will help you walk into your next appointment prepared and hopefully, more confident.
What is this medical checklist?
Glad you've asked. Here's what you'll find in it.
Document your symptoms precisely
- Intensity: Rate your pain or discomfort on a scale (I used 1-10 but also activity scale for women who are so used to pain that numbers don't matter anymore)
- Frequency: How often does this happen? Daily, weekly, monthly?
- Timing: Is it linked to your menstrual cycle? Before, during, or after your period? Around ovulation?
- Duration: How long have you been experiencing this?
Be specific, even if it feels weird or embarrassing. Yes let's talk about our dirahea, pain when urinating... It's ok. And sometimes it has cool names like the butt lightning (I'll talk about this later, promise)
Compile your medical history
Doctors don't always communicate with each other, wellbeing professionals don't have access to your health history. Yes another thing that need to change. (let's talk about this later too). So let them know:
- Previous tests and results
- Treatments you've tried (and whether they worked)
- Current medications, supplements, and contraceptives
- Family history: endometriosis, PCOS, thyroid issues, gynecological cancers or anything. If something runs in your family, mention it
Describe the real impact it has on your life
Don't downplay how your symptoms affect your life. I know. it's hard. i do it all the time.
- Work: Are you missing days? Struggling to concentrate?
- Sleep: Is pain keeping you awake?
- Social life: Are you canceling plans because you feel awful?
- Exercise: Has your activity level changed?
This context helps your doctor understand the severity and urgency of your situation.
Write down your questions in advance
Even the "silly" ones.
- What could be causing this?
- What tests do you recommend?
- Are there specialists I should see?
- What are my treatment options?
- How will this affect my fertility/pregnancy plans?
- Should I be concerned about family history of [condition]?
Note what you've already tried
Save time by listing:
- Home remedies (heat pads, dietary changes, exercise modifications)
- Over-the-counter medications
- Wellbeing therapies (acupuncture, massage, yoga)
- Previous medical treatments
This prevents your doctor from suggesting things you've already ruled out.
Some tips during the consultation
Bring support if you need it. A trusted friend, your mom, or partner can take notes while you focus on communicating. They can also help you remember important details later. I know some of you are also quite alone. I know I need to build a list of support. It will come.
Don't minimize your symptoms (yes, I'm saying it again!) Instead of "I'm a bit tired," try "I'm so exhausted I can barely function at work."
Ask for explanations you understand. If medical jargon confuses you, ask for simpler terms. Request written materials or reliable resources for follow-up reading.
Ok this one most of the pro won't like it. Ask questions about things you might have read, discussed or even see on social networks. Yes sometimes stuff we read are ridiculous and it's good that the professional can tell us so. BUT every professional can't be up to dat on every subject. So please, go, ask them and tell them where you've found what you found. Better when it's from a research paper.
Push for clarity on next steps. Before you leave, make sure you understand: What's the plan? When should you follow up? What warning signs should prompt you to call?
Resources and next steps
Try and find a healthcare or wellbeing professional that fits your need. The network at Fâmme is small for now but the goal would be to really offer you great healthcare professionals. Right now it includes, osteopaths, psychologists, and specialists who understand conditions like endometriosis, PCOS, and hormonal health challenges.
For holistic support alongside medical care, check out our wellbeing professionals who offer complementary approaches like nutritional therapy and cycle awareness.
Remember: You know your body better than anyone. If a healthcare provider dismisses your concerns, it's okay to seek a second opinion. You deserve to be heard, believed, and taken seriously.
Our health is what matter and sometimes just being prepared helps.
