One sentence you should say at GP appointment as BBC star speaks from experience

BBC Breakfast presenter Naga Munchetty has revealed what she considers the 'best' phrase to use when speaking to a doctor in order to be 'heard'. The broadcaster, who has been candid about her own health struggles and her diagnosis of adenomyosis at 47, despite experiencing symptoms since her teens, has now penned a book on the subject.

Four years ago, Munchetty shared her experience of having a coil fitted and discussed her debilitating, painful periods. The response from listeners was so significant that it led her to further explore her symptoms and investigate other women's experiences with medical treatment.

Now aged 50, Munchetty has written 'It's Probably Nothing: Critical Conversations on the Women's Health Crisis'. During a recent appearance on BBC Radio 4, she explained to host Anita Rani why she felt driven to focus on this issue after feeling overlooked when seeking medical assistance.

While discussing her newly published book, she told listeners: "I'm sick of women not being listened to." She also offered advice on how to make one's voice heard when seeking medical help, reports Surrey Live.

During the Woman's Hour episode, she referred to a chapter in her book dedicated to GP appointments. She said: "There's a chapter in here, which I was really nervous about writing, called 'The GP Appointment', because I thought 'this is going to sound really patronising, everyone knows how to book a GP appointment'.

"But, this is more about what you say. You make a list, write down your concerns, you prepare." She advised: "The best sentence I found is, 'this is negatively impacting the quality of my life'.

"You cannot ignore that. 'I have had to take time off work, I am losing my job, I have been unable to care for my children.' You have to be specific, and they must offer you help."

She added: "They want to. This isn't about GPs not wanting to help. This has just got to be a better partnership, so that you are listened to."

A clip of Munchetty talking on the show has been shared on social media. In the comment section on an Instagram post, one user called Menopause_doctor replied: "Such great work, but women deserve better. A real honour to be part of this book."

Jordan Stephens said: "I’m so sorry that you’ve had to experience this, Naga." Someone else put: "Thank you so much for raising awareness! I resonate so much with your journey."

Munchetty has battled with painful periods since her teenage years. She's voiced her frustration at the process of getting diagnosed, as doctors often dismissed her symptoms as 'normal' or told her to 'just deal with it' for many years.

The BBC presenter suffered severe symptoms such as heavy menstrual bleeding, intense pain, and nausea. Eventually, she sought private healthcare for treatment. She has utilised her platform to raise awareness of adenomyosis and the struggles women face in receiving appropriate medical care.

She shared with listeners: "My periods basically involved flooding, which meant that I would also have to set an alarm through the night to change my period products. I'd sleep on a towel, I was in so much pain that I would sometimes sleep on the floor so that it would be painful that way, so I wouldn't have to think about the other pain.

"I would pass out, I would vomit, I would have diarrhoea, and I would still be going to work."

She continued, revealing the extent of her struggles: "I would wear two pairs of knickers and I would always pack a spare pair of tights, I'd never wear white on my bottom half. And, you know, I am not uncommon. And just because it's not uncommon doesn't mean it is normal."

Her frustration with the healthcare response was evident as she recounted her experiences: "But no one ever asked me or investigated why they are so heavy. I was told, 'you'll grow out of it', what nonsense. 'It'll be better when you have a baby', so I've got to have a baby to stop being in pain?"

She talked about the mixed emotions upon diagnosis: "And then when it was finally diagnosed, everyone says, 'weren't you relieved?' Yeah, I can put a name to it, but there is no cure. You look into it, and there's not enough research or money put into women's reproductive issues."

The NHS defines adenomyosis as a condition where the inner lining of the uterus breaks through the muscle wall of the uterus. Various treatments are available to help manage symptoms of this condition, which is commonly detected in women aged over 30 and can affect anyone with menstrual cycles.

For some people with adenomyosis, there might not be any noticeable symptoms, but for others, the indicators can include excruciating menstruation and abundant menstrual flow. Symptoms could also extend beyond periods, such as pelvic pain, a sensation of bloating or heaviness in the lower abdomen, and discomfort during sexual activity.

It's crucial to understand that endometriosis is a distinct condition where tissue akin to the uterine lining proliferates in other areas, such as the ovaries or fallopian tubes. If you're suffering from severe pelvic or menstrual pain that's worse than usual and doesn't alleviate with pain relief, it's advised to urgently book an appointment with your GP or reach out to NHS 111 for help.

• your periods become more painful, heavier or irregular
• you have pain during sex
• heavy periods are affecting your life or you've had them for some time
• you've been feeling bloated for a while (about 3 weeks)
• you bleed between periods or after sex

If you're exhibiting symptoms of adenomyosis, your GP may ask about your menstrual cycles. They might also check your abdomen for any signs of swelling or bloating.

When arranging your appointment, don't hesitate to ask for a female doctor. The doctor might propose an internal examination to evaluate your vagina and cervix, which is the passage linking the vagina and the uterus.

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If you wish, you can have a friend, family member, or another staff member present during the examination. In some instances, further tests might be required to identify the cause of your symptoms or to rule out similar conditions like endometriosis. These tests could involve an ultrasound or an MRI scan.

Options include the IUS (intrauterine system), commonly known as Mirena or hormonal coil, which thins the womb lining for lighter, less painful periods; alternative hormonal contraceptives like the progestogen-only pill, combined pill, or contraceptive patch if the IUS isn't your cup of tea; and drugs such as tranexamic acid or NSAIDs.

Should these methods fall short, surgery might be needed, potentially a hysterectomy or endometrial ablation to remove the womb lining.

A heat pad or hot water bottle snug in a tea towel against your abdomen may help, or consider a TENS machine – a gadget that sends gentle electrical pulses to lessen pain. You could also take painkillers, such as paracetamol or ibuprofen.

The NHS says: "It's not clear what causes adenomyosis. You may be more likely to get it if you are over the age of 30 and have given birth."