How to Talk to Your Doctor When You Feel Dismissed
(Especially when fibroids or endometriosis may be involved)
At our clinic in Anchorage, Alaska, we see many individuals struggling with undiagnosed or poorly managed pelvic pain, heavy bleeding, and other life-disrupting symptoms. Too often, these patients have been told their pain is normal or psychological. For those dealing with conditions like fibroids or endometriosis, this dismissal can delay proper diagnosis and treatment for years.
It’s not uncommon for people to leave multiple medical appointments without answers. Learning how to advocate for yourself during a doctor’s visit is a critical step in getting the care you need.
1. Prepare before the appointment
Track and document your symptoms
We recommend logging your symptoms over several weeks. You can download our endometriosis focused period and pain tracker HERE.
Include:
Pain (severity, location, timing)
Bleeding (heaviness, clots, cycle pattern)
GI or urinary symptoms
Activity limitations (missed work, sleep disruption)
Bring previous imaging, lab work, and a list of treatments you’ve already tried.
Write down your main goals
Before you go in, decide what you want from the visit. For example:
"I want to explore whether my symptoms could be related to fibroids or endometriosis."
"I'd like a referral to a gynecologist who performs excision surgery."
"I want to understand what’s causing my pain and what treatment options exist locally."
Consider bringing a support person. Having someone with you can help reinforce your concerns and ensure you don’t forget key questions or comments.
2. Use assertive, fact-based communication
Express how you feel
If the appointment starts to feel dismissive, consider saying:
"I feel like my concerns aren’t being taken seriously, and this is really affecting my quality of life. I’d like to revisit what’s going on."
This opens the door for a more collaborative discussion.
Ask clarifying questions
"What could be causing these symptoms if not fibroids or endometriosis?"
"If this treatment doesn’t help, what’s the next step?"
"Are there other specialists you recommend I see in Alaska?"
Stay calm and objective
It helps to use statements like:
"I’ve tried standard treatments and haven’t improved. I’d like to look into more advanced options."
3. Recognize dismissal and push back respectfully
4. Ask about specialist referral
If fibroids or endometriosis are suspected, ask whether your provider has experience managing these conditions or if they can refer you to a specialist.
At our clinic, we focus specifically on advanced evaluation and treatment for fibroids, endometriosis, and complex pelvic pain. If you’re unsure what to ask your doctor, here’s a good place to start:
"Do you work with specialists in minimally invasive or excision surgery for these conditions in Anchorage?"
5. Know your rights
You are entitled to a second opinion.
You don’t need to accept being dismissed.
You deserve a diagnosis and treatment plan that fits your needs.
If your provider isn’t listening, you can, and should, seek care elsewhere.
6. Local care matters
Anchorage presents unique challenges in accessing specialty care. We work closely with patients from all over Alaska and understand the need for clear documentation, streamlined referrals, and personalized treatment planning. Our goal is to shorten your diagnostic delay and offer evidence-based, effective solutions.
If you’ve been dismissed before, you’re not alone.
We’re here to listen, believe you, and work with you.
