She Did the Research and Became on Expert on Her Health

Although the results of the nationwide poll conducted by The Times and the Henry J. Kaiser Family Foundation (“Hardly Routine,” May 3) show an alarming neglect on the part of many health care professionals, the wealth of information presented will undoubtedly give millions of women a clearer perspective on what to ask and expect of their gynecologists in the future.

Fortunately, when I ran up against the very same wall of silence 10 years ago, my voracious reading habit and natural cynicism were put to good use in answering my own questions. Your statistics only serve to add validity to what I suspected when I first questioned a gynecologist about menopause.

During a 15-minute office visit, I related my symptoms, which I correctly thought were premenopausal. His immediate suggestion was hormone replacement therapy, specifically Premarin/provera.

I had my doubts, but considering his supposed expertise, began the regimen prescribed, only to find myself feeling worse.

So began my quest to discover exactly what alternatives might be available. From books on herbal remedies to studies of yoga, I devoured the information available at bookstores. I formulated a plan to fit my needs, which included a different hormone, drastic diet change, exercise and herb supplements. In a short time, I not only felt better physically and emotionally, but I was also smug with my success.

When I spoke with the same gynecologist to request the prescription for new hormones and inform him of my menopausal miracle, the guy actually sounded relieved at my victory. I guess some of these doctors really do have their hands full.

But we do not have to remain ignorant. Armed with such definitive information as in your article, women can be more specific in their requests while at the same time researching about themselves, by themselves. After all, they’re our bodies.

--BETTE AMSLER

Pasadena