Generation M Living well in perimenopause and menopause

Thankfully, menopause is losing its reputation as a sexless, nightmarish time. Shepherd, a Black ob/gyn, views it more the way the Japanese do. They call it kenoki, a period of renewal that reflects how women's lives go through many stages, each of which deserves to be treasured. Menopause officially begins after 12 months without a period, typically between ages 49 and 51. But perimenopause, which starts about five to 10 years earlier, can contribute to low libido, brain fog, irregular or heavy periods, night sweats, and vaginal dryness. Shepherd describes it as a "dimmer switch slowly lowering as estrogen levels start dialing down." She is a big proponent of hormone replacement therapy to reduce hot flashes and vaginal dryness, among other things, and explains why. Shepherd suggests making the most of the second half of life by nurturing friendships; finding a sense of purpose; identifying values, beliefs, and strengths; exercising; drinking little or no alcohol; and embracing joy. This reassuring guide is packed with practical advice for making the most of menopause rather than dreading it.

In this book, Shepherd, an OB/GYN and leading women's health expert, strips away some of the stigma and stereotypes surrounding menopause. Her book includes a symptoms list, which serves as a helpful tool for readers who have experienced medical gaslighting or shame about symptoms such as vaginal dryness, incontinence, or brain fog. She demonstrates how complex and fascinating the female body is; for example, she explains how tinnitus is connected to hormones. Shepherd's approach to managing menopause is holistic; there's advice about hormone-replacement therapy, exercise, sleep, cognitive-behavioral therapy, painful vaginal sex, and more. She interweaves her research with the personal stories of patients that demonstrate the complexity of these transitional phases in ways that show readers they're not alone, regardless of the patriarchal systems that have led them to believe otherwise. VERDICT This accessible and actionable book lets perimenopausal and menopausal readers know that change to their bodies is inevitable as they age and move through these hormonal changes. Shepherd expertly empowers her audience to better position themselves to continue pursuing health, strength, wellness, good sex, and deep sleep.--Emily Bowles