2003 Ford Explorer shocks and struts

I took my 2003 Explorer in with 125,000 miles. The suspension has been squeaking when I go over bumps, but only when it's cold. The mechanics first told me (over the phone) that there were shocks and struts, but then when I took it in, they called to let me know that there were only struts (which were more expensive) and that I needed to have all 4 replaced. This is an expensive procedure, so I just want to make sure that I'm not being taken through the ringer because I'm female. Could this be right?