About endocrinologists
An endocrinologist is a medical doctor with special training and skills in conditions that involve the endocrine system.
The endocrine system is the body’s chemical messaging system. It involves a group of organs – called endocrine glands – making and releasing hormones into the bloodstream. The glands in the endocrine system include the pituitary gland, thyroid gland, parathyroid glands, adrenal glands, ovaries, testes and pancreas.
Hormones control many functions in our body including reproduction, metabolism, growth, sleep and development. When the normal balance of hormones in the body is upset, endocrinologists help to understand why this is happening and how to get the balance back.
Paediatric endocrinologists specialise in hormonal problems that affect children, including diabetes and conditions related to growth.
If your child has health or development concerns, health professionals like endocrinologists are there to care for your child and help you understand your child’s condition and treatment. With the support and expertise of these professionals, you can help your child thrive.
Why your child might see an endocrinologist
Your child might see an endocrinologist if it looks like they:
- have type-1 diabetes, type-2 diabetes, thyroid disease or an adrenal gland disorder
- are growing slower than expected
- are showing signs of puberty earlier than expected
- have a bone disorder like osteogenesis imperfecta.
The endocrinologist will use blood tests that check your child’s hormone levels to assess how well your child’s endocrine system is working. Treatment for problems of the endocrine system often involve medicine, which can either increase or decrease hormone levels.
If your child has an endocrine disorder, they might need to see an endocrinologist regularly throughout life. How often and for how long depends on your child’s condition.
Endocrinologists might be involved in medical support for trans and gender-diverse children and teenagers who are affirming their gender.
To see an endocrinologist, your child will need a referral from your GP. Your GP can help you find someone who’s right for your child.
Before going to an endocrinologist
Before seeing the endocrinologist, it’s a good idea to find out about things like the following:
- Why you’re going – talk with your GP about why your child needs to see an endocrinologist.
- Appointments – do you need to make the appointment, or will the GP make it for you? Does the appointment need to be in person, or can it be via telehealth?
- Waiting lists – how long before you can get an appointment to see the endocrinologist?
- Is there anything you can do while you’re waiting for the appointment? For example, can your child start some treatment or therapy?
- Costs – how much will the appointment with the endocrinologist cost? Check whether you can get money back from Medicare or private health insurance.
- Locations – find out where you have to go to see the endocrinologist – for example, public hospital, private hospital or clinic.
- Preparation – what do you need to bring to the appointment? For example, should you bring your child’s test results or their child health and development book?
You can ask your GP these and any other questions before you go to the endocrinologist. You could also ask the endocrinologist’s clinic when you make your appointment. Writing down your questions can help you remember them.