We can take a moment during our appointments to check in with ourselves. If we are comfortable doing so, we can consider communicating our needs and experience with our practitioners.
Support
Many of us find it helpful to have someone we know in the waiting room or with us during the appointment. This may be a friend, family member, trusted nurse, etc. Here is what some folks shared with us about this form of support:
“Bring someone you trust with you. It feels safe. Safety and support, knowing that I’m not doing this alone. Again, really going back to the community.”
Asking Questions
Some of us also find it helpful to ask questions. Here’s how one person described this:
"With questions, you can get to know how much the doctor knows. When you ask more questions, it takes the heat off of you.”