Why doesn't my doctor know more about menopause?

Most OB-GYN residency programs in the United States don't include a standardized menopause curriculum. A 2023 study published in the journal Menopause found that only 31.3% of surveyed residency programs reported having any menopause curriculum at all, even though nearly 93% of program directors agreed residents should have access to one. If your doctor seems underprepared to answer your menopause questions, it likely reflects a systemic training gap, not a lack of care on their part.

What the research actually shows

The study, led by Dr. Jennifer T. Allen of Augusta University, surveyed 145 U.S. OB-GYN residency program directors, with 99 responding.^[1] The researchers concluded there is currently no standardized menopause curriculum that provides tools to assess resident competency during training, despite widespread agreement that one is needed. This isn't a new finding either. Earlier research from Johns Hopkins found similar gaps, with only about 20% of surveyed residents reporting a formal menopause-learning curriculum in their programs.^[2]

Why this happens

Part of the challenge is structural. Menopause care spans obstetrics and gynecology, internal medicine, and family medicine, and no single specialty has historically "owned" it as a required competency.^[3] As more women live one-third or more of their lives in a postmenopausal state, the mismatch between training and need has become harder to ignore.^[3]

"By the time women get to me, they've gotten a ton of information. They've probably seen multiple doctors already."

— Dr. Tosin Odunsi, MD, MPH, FACOG, Obstetrics and Gynecology Physician

What this means for how you approach your own care

Knowing that this gap is systemic, not personal, can change how you show up to an appointment. It also explains why some women end up doing significant self-education before or alongside seeing a provider, particularly around foundational, non-hormonal support strategies for symptoms like stress, sleep disruption, and mood changes during the menopause transition.

Foundational stress-axis support during a hormonally variable time

Menopause and perimenopause place real demands on the body's stress response system, independent of any specific hormone level. Our cortisol support supplement with organic ashwagandha is formulated with 300 mg of organic ashwagandha root, an adaptogen studied for its role in supporting a healthy stress response, alongside algae-sourced DHA and a full B-vitamin complex.† A 2024 systematic review and meta-analysis of nine randomized controlled trials found ashwagandha supplementation was associated with reduced serum cortisol levels compared with placebo in adults.^[4]

Bringing informed questions to your appointment

Cortisol Complex, designed for women navigating high-stress seasons, is third-party tested in cGMP-certified laboratories and is vegan, non-GMO, and gluten-free. It's meant to support your foundation while you advocate for the specific menopause care conversation you deserve.

"I've learned the hard way that no one will advocate for your health as fiercely as you will. Faith gave me the courage to ask hard questions of my own doctors, and science gave me the confidence to trust what my body was telling me."

— Amy Suzanne Upchurch, Founder and CEO of Pink Stork

What to do if you feel underserved

• Seek out providers who list menopause-specific certifications, such as NCMP (National Certified Menopause Practitioner), through The Menopause Society's provider directory
• Write down your specific questions and symptoms ahead of your appointment
• Ask directly whether your provider has completed menopause-specific continuing education
• Consider a second opinion or a menopause-focused specialist if your concerns aren't being addressed

For more on building your own support strategy alongside provider care, see our companion guide, supporting your body through the menopause transition.

Frequently asked questions

Why don't more doctors know about menopause care?

Research shows most OB-GYN residency programs don't include a standardized menopause curriculum, despite program directors agreeing one is needed, reflecting a systemic training gap rather than an individual failing.

What does NCMP mean?

NCMP stands for National Certified Menopause Practitioner, a credential from The Menopause Society indicating additional menopause-specific training beyond standard residency education.

Is this training gap improving?

Some institutions have begun building dedicated menopause curricula and clinics in response to this research, though a fully standardized, nationwide curriculum does not yet exist.

Can Cortisol Complex help with menopause symptoms directly?

Cortisol Complex is formulated to support a healthy stress response and calm mood generally.† It is not a treatment for menopause or any specific menopause symptom, and you should talk to your provider about your individual needs.

How do I find a menopause-trained doctor?

The Menopause Society maintains a searchable directory of NCMP-certified providers, which can be a helpful starting point if your current provider isn't able to address your concerns.

† These statements have not been evaluated by the Food and Drug Administration. This product is not intended to diagnose, treat, cure, or prevent any disease. Always consult your healthcare provider before starting any new supplement, especially during pregnancy, breastfeeding, or while managing a medical condition. Keep out of reach of children.