What Women Need To Know When Talking to Their Doctors
Your health matters! Don’t be afraid to speak up for yourself and ask your doctor questions.
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Transcript
DR. RODGERS: When you visit your doctor, do you worry about asking questions?
Hi, I’m Dr. Griffin Rodgers with the NIH.
My colleague, Dr. Janine Clayton, director of the Office of Research on Women’s Health at NIH, offers these tips.
DR. CLAYTON: Your health matters. You should never feel like you’re bothering your doctor by asking questions. As you think of questions, jot them down. This will help make sure that you don’t forget to ask them during your visit.
If your doctor uses words that you don’t understand, don’t be afraid to ask the doctor to explain so that you can understand.
If you’re a woman, ask if there are differences for women that you should know about related to your health and any medicines you’re taking. If you’re given a new medication, ask about side effects and if you’re starting at the lowest dose.
No question about your health is a stupid question. Don’t be afraid to speak up for yourself.
DR. RODGERS: Follow us @NIDDKgov. This is Dr. Griffin Rodgers.