A.2/ Talking to Your GP
This article will show you some ways to help you advocate for yourself within the reality of A pressurised healthcare system.
Gynaecological conditions such as Endometriosis can take 9 years to diagnose. This means women could be visiting the GP an average of 10 times for the same concerns or symptoms before they get the care they need.
Many women report feeling like their concerns are dismissed or unheard and so it is important that women are to able to advocate for themselves if needed.
GPs want to help patients but they are trying to work in a system that can be difficult and unsupportive. In England and Wales GPs are faced with some really tough challenges. Funding cuts mean their workload has increased to unsustainable levels leading to high rates of burnout and moral distress with GPs feeling frustrated by having only 10 minute appointments to assess patients with complex concerns.
Given this pressurised, and far from ideal reality, it’s important that women have the tools and language they need in order to be able to advocate for themselves.
a.2/
Talking to your GP
Although it is frustrating for your concerns to go unheard, advocating for yourself is not about an “Us vs Them'“ mindset. GPs are our healthcare partners and the gatekeeper to further care, so efficiently using your time with your GP is key to having you concerns taken seriously.
GPs look for daily life impairment to gauge urgency. Keep a log of your period. Write your symptoms or concerns down and be specific - explain the effects the symptom has on your life. Include how heavy your periods are, how painful, if you experience changes in mood and how that affects you. Do you find it difficult to walk or stand? Do you feel tired or exhausted? Do your symptoms mean you cancel social plans or miss work or school?
Record how many period products you use over a day, if you have clots how big they are. You may find it useful to include any changes in bowel movements and bladder health as well as if sex is unexpectedly painful. It is key to communicate how these symptoms affect your daily life; if they disrupt your sleep, if you are able to think like you normally would, if you are able to still complete housework and if your relationships are affected.
Your GP will also be interested in family history, what over the counter medication you take to manage these symptoms and if you had any previous tests so you may find it useful to write these down and take it with you.
Finally, it is useful to have an idea of what you want to get out of the appointment. If you think you may have a specific condition take a look at NICE guidelines for that condition or use our “Support” section to see what you can ask for or what you could expect as the next steps.
If you are struggling to feel heard or to get the care you want, you may find it helpful to ask for a second opinion. You could also take someone with you who sees and understands your concerns. You can ask for a specialist referral and most importantly you can ask for a copy of your records. It is also ok to ask them to record why they have denied your requests.