As of last year, I have FINALLY found a VERY good psychiatrist; he listens, and responds to me very well. He sees me any where from three weeks, up to three months; depending on my condition. I can also email him at anytime. I am fortunate to have found him. Others I have had in the past, would book me in anywhere from 6 months, up to a year. Many of them gave very little feed back when I asked questions. Proper comunication between the Psychiatrist and Patient is crucial.
In response to the painful, and stressful menstrual cycles; definietly go an Obstetrics and Gynecologist. I've experienced, extreme stress, and agitation during the week of PMS. Since my doctor prescribed Librium (25mg, in the morning, and at night). I have noticed that the PMS I have been experienced before, is not there anymore. By the way, I am new to the forum; I have OCD (anxiety disorder), and Rapid Cycling Bipolar 2 (mood disorder). He primarily precribed Librium for my anxiety. Librium is a benzodiazapine with a long half life, and stays in the system longer. Unlike Xanax which has a very short half life, it goes out of your system quicker. Once Xanax is out of the system, usually, there is an anxiety reboud effect; not good. I know of many doctors who are reluctant to prescribe Xanax, and those that are similar.
Check out with the Ob Gyn, the psychiatrist and/or therapist, FIRST. Do not be affraid to ask ANY questions, even though they want to kick you out of the office (of course, be reasonable with the over-time). Remember, this is about YOU, not the health care workers.
May everyone stay well. (((hugs)))