Finding a Healthcare Professional
It is important to be under the care of a healthcare professional who understands surgical menopause and your particular health concerns. We understand that this is sometimes a challenge, so we are working to build an interactive map where you can find the right provider for you.
Many countries have menopause clinics or menopause specialists, and you can usually find these online - we would recommend searching through reputable organizations for accredited and knowledgeable practitioners. Some countries also have their own Menopause Society, so it is worth researching if there is an association near you to check for accredited and experienced practitioners. Some examples of such organizations can be found here:
Additional support pre and post-surgery
Depending on your reason for having the surgery, some people find that they need additional emotional support in coming to terms with being ‘post-op’ (post-surgical operation). In particular, loss of fertility can be very difficult for those who had wanted to maintain the option of “natural” pregnancy. Others may find they are traumatized by what led them to have surgery (e.g., in the case of PMDD, this may be years of severe emotional or behavioral symptoms).
Some people find that talk therapy (either supportive counseling or cognitive-behavioral psychotherapy) is useful for addressing grief or emotional symptoms that may arise during your transition into surgical menopause. If you’re unsure where to start, search for a “cognitive behavior therapy” in your area. Your doctor may also have recommendations.
Peer support
Peer support can be very useful - speaking to those who have been through, or are going through similar situations can be a relief for many. Below, we list several of the available online resources:
IAPMD peer support - free one-to-one support for those with hormonal sensitivities such as PMDD /PME.
INSPIRE - a non-social media community where you can interact with others (anonymously if prefered). Download the app here (currently not available on Android).
The above services are run by IAPMD. The following resources may be useful but are not affiliated with IAPMD:
For additional support and information around primary ovarian insufficiency (POI) you can visit The Daisy Network.
Menopause cafes are becoming popular in the UK and around the world - A Menopause Cafe is a group directed discussion of menopause with no agenda, objectives or themes. It is a discussion group rather than a support or counselling session. You can even start your own local group if there are none near you yet!
Surgical Menopause UK Support group - Facebook
Visit www.iapmd.org/surgery for lots of evidence-based information and resources for those considering, going through or recovering from surgery for PMDD/PME.