The Menopause Manifesto

 Title: The Menopause Manifesto: Own Your Health with Facts and Feminism 

 Author: Dr. Jen Gunter

Publisher: Kensington Books

Genre: Nonfiction/Health

Publication date: May 25, 2021

Synopsis: 

 The internationally renowned, New York Times and USA Today bestselling author of The Vagina Bible, Dr. Jen Gunter has been called the world's most famous--and outspoken--gynecologist (The Guardian), the Internet's OB/GYN, and one of the fiercest advocates for women's health. Now, in The Menopause Manifesto, Dr. Jen Gunter brings you empowerment through knowledge by countering stubborn myths and misunderstandings about menopause with hard facts, real science, fascinating historical perspective, and expert advice.

The only thing predictable about menopause is its unpredictability. Factor in widespread misinformation, a lack of research, and the culture of shame around women's bodies, and it's no wonder women are unsure what to expect during the menopause transition and beyond.

Menopause is not a disease--it's a planned change, like puberty. And just like puberty, we should be educated on what's to come years in advance, rather than the current practice of leaving people on their own with bothersome symptoms and too much conflicting information. Knowing what is happening, why, and what to do about it is both empowering and reassuring.

Frank and funny, Dr. Jen debunks misogynistic attitudes and challenges the
over-mystification of menopause to reveal everything you really need to know about:

- Perimenopause
- Hot flashes
- Sleep disruption
- Sex and libido
- Depression and mood changes
- Skin and hair issues
- Outdated therapies
- Breast health
- Weight and muscle mass
- Health maintenance screening
- And much more!

Filled with practical, reassuring information, this essential guide will revolutionize how women experience menopause--including how their lives can be even better for it!

My Thoughts:

Menopause is a conversation stopper. If you do not believe me, bring it up in conversation and see how fast the subject gets changed or the person suddenly has something else to do. This includes talking to your female friends, very few people want to talk about it. Enter Dr. Jen Gunter. She has written a book that is specifically about menopause, called The Menopause Manifesto: Own Your Health with Facts and Feminism.

"The only thing that is truly predictable about the menopause transition is that it's unpredictable."

Before I read this book I knew what age the ladies in my family go through menopause (42), and that some symptoms are hot flashes and your period gets irregular. That's about it. What do you know about menopause? Hopefully more than me, but even if you do, I imagine it is not enough. If you think that this book does not apply to you because you are in your twenties, thirties, or even your forties, think again! Did you know that decisions you are making RIGHT now can affect you when you enter menopause? No? Neither did I. Did you know that some things that look like menopause could actually be something else? No? Neither did I, but now I do, and hopefully you will as well.

"Women want more information about menopause and that knowledge can reduce suffering."

Dr. Gunter caught my attention in the introduction when she said, "This establishment has temperature control issues. Drenching heat followed by terrible chills. Defies the laws of thermodynamics. Would not recommend." I literally laughed out loud. The doses of humor and the anecdotes that Dr. Gunter uses throughout the book, make what could be a dry subject (no pun intended) an easier read.

"Menopause is puberty in reverse."

Not only does Dr. Gunter cover every symptom of menopause in detail, but she also takes the time to explain where the term came from, and the stigma behind it. She explains, "The culture of silence about menopause in our patriarchal society is something to behold." Dr. Gunter is willing and able to break that silence by explaining what is common with menopause and what needs to be further checked out. She gives clear information on when menopause typically happens, how your body should respond, and if you are earlier or later than the "normal" range of how the body is affected. 

"One woman dies every minute from cardiovascular disease."

A few of the things that I learned is that the age of the mother and sisters (if you have any) affect when you will go through menopause. Genetics also plays a role. Menopause also can affect your heart; you start losing muscle mass quicker, and it affects your bone health. Dr. Gunter covers these topics and more in-depth. I was fascinated by all that I did not know and what I could do now to start helping myself. She also talks about different therapy options and so much more.

I would highly recommend this book to any woman who has not gone through menopause yet. Whether you are in the beginning stages or you are far from it, this is a great book to pick up and have on hand for quick reference. It is the most thorough and highly researched book on the subject that I have come across. Even if you are not ready to break the silence about menopause, you can still read this book and become educated on your health.

Thank you to Net Galley and Kensington Press for the opportunity to read this book. I was not required to give a positive review but am more than happy to. All thoughts and opinions are my own.