How to Find a Menopause Specialist: What the MSCP Credential Means
Menopause & HormonesArticleIf your symptoms are being brushed off, a clinician with menopause training can help. The Menopause Society runs a directory of members and certified practitioners. Here is what the credential means, what it doesn't, and what to ask before booking.
In this article
Many women say their hot flashes, sleep problems or painful sex were dismissed at a regular checkup. If that sounds familiar, a clinician with focused menopause training may help. Here is how to find one.
What “MSCP” means
The Menopause Society1 (formerly the North American Menopause Society) created a competency exam in 2002. Licensed health professionals who pass earn the credential MSCP, Menopause Society Certified Practitioner.23 The credential lasts 3 years and can be renewed by retesting or by showing continuing education in midlife women’s health.3
What it tells you: the clinician passed an exam on menopause care.
What it doesn’t tell you: it isn’t a license, and it doesn’t tell you their specialty, what they’re allowed to prescribe in your state, or their style. All licensed professionals can take the exam.3
Who’s in the directory
The Society’s online directory lists members and certified practitioners who asked to be included. You can search by country, by ZIP code in the U.S., or for telehealth by state.1 It includes many kinds of clinicians, such as physicians (MD, DO), nurse practitioners, physician assistants, nurse midwives, pharmacists, physical therapists, social workers and naturopathic physicians.3
Keep in mind:1
- The Society doesn’t endorse or recommend the people listed.
- It isn’t a complete list.
- Clinicians not accepting new patients aren’t listed.
Questions to ask before you book
The Society suggests considering location, insurance or Medicare, telehealth and specialty, and coming with a list of questions.3
- Do you take my insurance or Medicare?
- Do you offer telehealth?
- Do you prescribe hormone therapy and nonhormonal options, or will you refer me?
- Can you treat vaginal and bladder symptoms too?
- How do you coordinate with my primary care clinician?
If you’re considering an online menopause service, our guide to questions before subscribing to an online menopause clinic covers subscriptions and fees.
What a good visit looks like
The Society says your clinician should listen, make it comfortable to discuss symptoms, answer your questions and respect your decisions.3 Bring a short summary of your symptoms, cycles, medicines and family history.
Try: “My hot flashes and sleep problems are affecting my work, and I’d like to talk through all my options, including hormone therapy. Is that something you can help with today?”
My Body Changed. Now What? includes a Visit Brief. Use it to list your symptoms, medicines and questions so your first visit with a new clinician counts. See the book.
This article is for general educational purposes only and is not medical advice. It isn't a substitute for diagnosis or treatment from a qualified healthcare professional who knows your health history. Please don't ignore professional advice or delay getting care because of something you read here. Bleeding after menopause, chest pain, severe depression or thoughts of self-harm need prompt care; in the U.S. you can call or text 988. If you think you may be having a medical emergency, call 911 or your local emergency number right away. This article describes a professional credential and directory. Girl Playbook does not endorse any specific product, test, or provider.
Girl Playbook sells this book. It provides education and worksheets, not individualized medical care.
Sources
The research behind this article, in the order it’s cited. How we source our articles.
- The Menopause SocietyFind a Menopause Practitioner (opens in a new tab)abc
- The Menopause SocietyCertification Examination (opens in a new tab)↩
- The Menopause SocietyChoosing a Healthcare Practitioner (opens in a new tab)abcdef
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