The Menopause Companion

Book excerpt: An indispensable primer on menopause that reads like advice from a close friend, co-written by a medical doctor and expert in women’s health. It’s one of the most important, least discussed events that happens for half the population. It’s a physiological and psychosocial event, a cultural construct, and a deeply personal experience all woven together in a jumbled knot. It’s menopause. But why is there so much mystery surrounding the topic? This accessible and to-the-point guide makes the entire landscape of menopause—not just the physiology—more transparent. If what you need is a level-headed friend to help walk you through the litany of fears to face, questions to ask, and practical decisions to make throughout your transition, this guidebook offers no-nonsense, straightforward, medically backed information about what to expect and what you can do about it. It offers: A refresher course on reproductive system anatomy, life cycle, and physiology—what are hormones, and how do they influence my body? Information on how to recognize and what to do about common symptoms—when should I see a health practitioner and how do I talk to them? Context for the history of menopause medically and culturally—what do scientists actually know and what are the major myths? Advice on how to get ready, notice changes, and call in support—what is available to try in terms of products, tools, medications, holistic support, or self-care practices?