How to Tell Your Story So Doctors Will Listen 

Let’s be real. Trying to explain your health story to a doctor can feel… impossible.

Especially when you’ve seen five specialists, have symptoms that don’t line up neatly, or keep hearing, “Your labs look fine.”

Whether you're dealing with chronic pain, hormonal issues or just trying to figure out what's normal, the way you tell your story matters. Not because it's your job to have a diagnosis — but because how you present what you're experiencing can directly impact how seriously you're taken.

You shouldn’t have to advocate this hard to be believed. But until the system changes, let’s make sure your voice is heard.

Why storytelling matters in health care

Doctors are trained to look for patterns. But when women describe symptoms, especially vague or “invisible” ones like fatigue, brain fog or pelvic pain, we’re often told it’s stress, anxiety or hormones — full stop.

That’s where your story comes in. A clear, concise account of your symptoms can give your provider the breadcrumbs they need to take action, refer you to a specialist or finally connect the dots.

But you don’t have to write a novel. You just need to hit the right points.

How to organize your health story

Think of your appointment like a pitch meeting — only you’re pitching your health. These three steps help you go in focused and confident:

1.) Start with your “headline”

Open with your most important or disruptive symptom.

Instead of: “So, I’ve been feeling kind of off for a while…”

Try: “I’ve been having sharp pelvic pain that’s disrupting my daily life. I’m concerned something deeper is going on.”

Be specific, and lead with what’s affecting your life the most.

2.) Create a timeline

Doctors love patterns, so give them one. Use rough dates if needed.

When did it start? Has it changed or worsened? What makes it better or worse? Is it tied to your cycle, activity, food, medication or sleep?

Bringing a bullet-point list is helpful. 

3.) Don’t forget the “lived impact”

This is the part doctors often overlook - how it's affecting you.

Say things like:

“It’s keeping me from working full days.”

“I’ve had to cancel social plans because of pain.”

“I feel like I’m constantly managing symptoms just to function.”

You’re not being dramatic. You’re being honest about how your health is interfering with your life.

What NOT to worry about

You don’t need perfect medical terms

You don’t need to apologize for taking up time.

You don’t need to have all the answers.

Your job is to tell the truth. Their job is to help figure out what it means.

Final thoughts

You shouldn't have to fight to be heard — but you can learn how to speak up with clarity and confidence.

At Listen Up Doc, we’re not here to teach you how to “fix” your body. We’re here to help you own your story, trust your instincts and show up for yourself in every exam room.

Because your voice matters — and your symptoms do too.

PSA: I’m not a doctor, just a woman who’s been through it and wants to help others ask better questions. Always talk to your healthcare provider before making medical decisions.