There are some GPs out there who are on your side, I would say in my experience it's a 50/50 split of good and bad. This is what you want to hear from your GP to show they actually understand menoapuse... if you're not getting these I would consider switching GPs.
They listen to you
They don’t rush, interrupt, or minimise your symptoms... and they take your experience seriously.
They ask about your whole picture
Mood, sleep, cycles, brain fog, anxiety, joint pain, not just hot flushes!!
They don’t jump straight to antidepressants
They explore hormonal causes first and discuss options properly.
They talk about HRT as an option — without fear-mongering
Balanced, up-to-date information, not outdated scare stories.
They use NICE guidelines
Or openly reference current guidance rather than personal opinion.
They’re honest if they don’t know — and refer you on
Huge green flag: “This isn’t my specialist area, let me refer you.”
They don’t tell you it’s ‘just stress’, ‘your age’, or ‘normal’
Validation matters. Symptoms may be common, but they don’t have to be endured.
They involve you in decisions
You’re part of the conversation, not talked at.
Not getting this? Don’t give up... you have options. Ask to speak to a menopause specialist, track your symptoms (the tracker in my menopause guide is amazing for this!), and bring along highlighted information from the NICE guidelines to your appointment.
Taking these steps helps you advocate for yourself, ensures your GP sees the full picture, and can make your next consultation far more productive.
Remember: you deserve care that listens, understands, and supports you fully, and sometimes that means speaking up, preparing, and using the resources available to you.
You deserve to be listened to!