THE MENOPAUSE COMPANION

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 happen 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 surroundingthe topic? This accessible and to-the-point guide makes the entire landscape of menopausenot just the physiologymore 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 physiologywhat are hormones, and how do they influence my body? Information on how to recognize and what to do about common symptomswhen should I see a health practitioner and how do I talk to them? Context for the history of menopause medically and culturallywhat do scientists actually know and what are the major myths? Advice on how to get ready, notice changes, and call-in supportwhat is available to try in terms of products, tools, medications, holistic support, or self-care practices? SASHA DAVIES has been (among other things) a restaurant owner, barista, cheese monger, and cave manager. She has written two books about cheesemaking and also self-published Menopause: An Imperfect Guide. TORI HUDSON, MD, is a naturopathic physician, clinical professor, and nationally recognized expert on menopause. She is the medical director of A Woman's Time, founder/co-director of Naturopathic Education and Residency Consortium, and author of Women's Encyclopedia of Natural Medicine.