How To Advocate For Yourself In Medical Settings

Many women can relate to feeling like their doctor isn’t listening to them or taking their concerns seriously. Feeling unheard like this is the direct result of the gender bias that has long proliferated the healthcare system and medical research. Studies show that doctors more frequently dismiss legitimate health concerns in women than they do in men, and that women’s pain levels are more frequently underestimated.

Whether these biases are conscious or unconscious, the reality is that they do exist. This means that, as women, it is important to have self-advocacy skills to use in these situations.

Her Agenda spoke to Dr. Sarah Pederson, OBGYN at Vera Health, on tips women can put into practice. According to Sarah, one of the most important pieces of self-advocacy is persistence.

 “I think a lot of doctors tell patients, ‘Oh that’s just normal, ‘ even when the patient knows something is wrong and they don’t feel ‘normal,'” Sarah said. “I encourage patients to push for answers.”

She offers an example of how to respond in such a situation: “I know my hormone labs look normal, but my periods seem very irregular. What else can we do to help me figure out why my periods are off? If you’re not sure, do you know anyone you can refer me to?”

Here are four other tips Sarah recommends.

The first step in being able to better advocate for your health is simply tuning into your body and slowing down to notice when something feels off.

“Sometimes when women have a lot going on in their lives and are busy caring for others, so they don’t take the time to be in touch with their bodies or care for themselves,” Sarah said.

Sarah pinpoints a culture of silence as one barrier that keeps us from fully tuning in.

“I also think women don’t often talk about how they are feeling or what kind of symptoms they are having,” she said. “It’s embarrassing to tell your friends that you wear a pad because you leak urine, or that you are exhausted all the time, or your hair keeps falling out!”

When we don’t share these things, Sarah says it is hard for us to understand what is “normal” and what is not.

“It’s helpful to take the time ahead of your appointment to talk to trusted friends and partners and write a detailed list of questions and concerns,” she said. “If you aren’t sure what to say at the visit, then read off what you are concerned about and what questions you have. I’ve also had patients bring friends, roommates, partners, and moms to their appointments to be another voice to help describe how they are feeling.”

Before your appointment, Sarah also suggests setting a clear goal.

“For example: ‘I feel tired all the time. How can we make a plan to get to the bottom of why I’m feeling tired?'” she said.

“Make sure you explain how you are feeling and what seems off or wrong,” Sarah said.

Being clear and firm on what our concerns and symptoms are is crucial, especially if we feel that a provider is making assumptions about us based on identity or past experiences.

“Medicine is very personal and should be personalized,” Sarah said. “No two bodies are the same, so never let anyone stereotype you. Set goals for your health, and ask questions and follow up until you are feeling like your best self.”

Advocating for our health doesn’t mean we have to stick with providers we don’t feel comfortable with to get them to listen.

“Remember that truly learning about your body takes time,” said Sarah. “Don’t be afraid to get a second and third opinion until you find someone to truly listen to you.”

Not all providers have equal training and experience. That’s why Sarah suggests taking the time to find the right one.

“If a doctor or provider can help you, schedule a meet and greet or discovery call to see if they are a good fit first,” she said.