For years, menopause was something women were expected to white-knuckle through with quiet dignity and a fan in their purse. But we’re calling BS on that. Midlife is too important—and too powerful—to be ignored, dismissed, or misdiagnosed. If your body feels like it’s playing a game of hormonal dodgeball, you’re not alone. And no, you’re not crazy.
This is the era of informed, bold women taking charge of their health—and it starts with knowledge. Whether you’re neck-deep in night sweats, staring down brain fog, or wondering if you’re the only one feeling unrecognizable in your own skin, the right book can be a game-changer.
Below are the best menopause and perimenopause books for women who want real answers, not patronizing advice. These books are honest, medically sound, inclusive, and even a little bit funny. We’ve also included a visual roundup of the many surprising symptoms that come with this transition—because spoiler alert: it’s not just hot flashes.
The New Menopause by Dr. Mary Claire Haver
If you want a smart, science-forward roadmap to the modern menopause experience, this is it. Dr. Haver is a board-certified OB-GYN and nutritionist who delivers solid advice on HRT, weight changes, muscle loss, sleep, and inflammation—without talking down to you.
Why it stands out:
- Up-to-date science
- Actionable lifestyle changes
- Empowers you to advocate for better care
It’s especially valuable if you’ve ever left a doctor’s office feeling dismissed. Dr. Haver reminds us that our health is worth fighting for, and that muscle mass and nutrition really do matter.
Watch this YouTube to hear Dr. Haver discuss health in the menopause years.
Estrogen Matters by Avrum Bluming, MD, and Carol Tavris, PhD
This book pulls no punches. It’s a deep dive into the misunderstood world of estrogen and HRT, challenging decades of fear and misinformation.
Bluming (a medical oncologist) and Tavris (a social psychologist) combine forces to examine the flawed studies that scared an entire generation away from hormone therapy. If you’re trying to understand whether HRT is right for you—or you’re just hungry for clarity—start here.
Why it matters:
- Separates science from fear
- Empowers informed conversations with your doctor
- Validates your right to choose what’s best for your body
The Menopause Brain by Lisa Mosconi, PhD
If you’ve been forgetting names, losing words mid-sentence, or feeling mentally slower, this one is for you. Dr. Mosconi is a neuroscientist who makes it clear: menopause and your brain are deeply connected.
This book explores how estrogen affects cognition and brain health, explains why brain fog is real (and not permanent), and offers strategies to support long-term mental sharpness.
Why you’ll love it:
- Neuroscience made readable
- Practical strategies for cognitive support
- Reassures you: you’re not broken, your brain is recalibrating
Also check out her earlier work, The XX Brain, which lays a broader foundation on women’s neurology and aging.
You Are Not Broken by Dr. Kelly Casperson
Part sex-ed, part pep talk, and all empowerment, this book is a must-read if you’ve ever felt betrayed by your libido—or unsure how to talk about it. Dr. Casperson is a urologist who wants women to understand their bodies, ditch shame, and take back their sexual health.
With humor and frankness, she breaks down anatomy, hormones, medical myths, and mindset in ways that are eye-opening and often hilarious. There’s no fluff here—just fire.
What you’ll find inside:
- Clear, compassionate explanations of sexual function
- How hormones affect desire and satisfaction
- A strong case for advocating for your pleasure
What Fresh Hell Is This? by Heather Corinna
The title says it all. This book is raw, radically inclusive, funny, and affirming. If you’ve ever felt invisible, furious, confused, or gaslit during this transition, Heather Corinna is the voice you didn’t know you needed. Part memoir, part manifesto, this book blends research with deeply human experiences. It addresses menopause through a social justice lens while still being wildly practical.
Why it resonates:
- Inclusive of all bodies and identities
- Centers lived experience, not just medical models
- Laugh-out-loud moments and real talk
How to Menopause by Dr. Louise Newson
Dr. Newson is one of the UK’s top menopause experts, and her approach is no-nonsense and user-friendly. This is your guide to symptoms, hormones, lifestyle shifts, and treatment options—served in a digestible format.
This book is ideal for women who want straight answers without sorting through jargon or outdated myths.
You’ll get:
- Clear definitions and symptom explanations
- A balanced look at HRT
- Practical advice to take to your doctor
So, What Should You Read First?
If you’re feeling overwhelmed, here’s a cheat sheet:
- New to menopause and want a full overview? Start with The New Menopause.
- Curious (or scared) about estrogen and HRT? Read Estrogen Matters.
- Feeling foggy and forgetful? Go with The Menopause Brain.
- Want to reclaim your sex life? Grab You Are Not Broken.
- Need laughs, truth, and inclusion? Start What Fresh Hell Is This?
- Want a clear, concise guide? Pick How to Menopause.
But Wait… Am I Even in Perimenopause?
If you’ve been asking yourself “Am I just tired, or is this perimenopause?”—you’re not alone. Here’s a reminder that the symptoms are broad, and often unexpected:
Common signs include:
- Brain fog
- Anxiety or rage
- Irregular periods
- Insomnia
- Skin changes
- Low libido
- Weight gain around the middle
- Hot flashes (of course)
And sometimes, a sudden desire to quit your life and move to a remote cabin. (We see you.)
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the 4 stages of menopause?
Postmenopause – everything after that.
Premenopause – before symptoms begin.
Perimenopause – hormonal changes start (can last 4–10 years).
Menopause – 12 months without a period.
What helps the most during perimenopause?
- Hormonal support (HRT or alternatives)
- Strength training
- Sleep hygiene
- Community
- Books like these
How do I talk to my doctor about this?
Bring notes. Hell, bring an Excel spreadsheet – I’m not kidding – if that’s what it takes to get your doctor to take you seriously. Ask about hormone levels. Reference data from books like The New Menopause or Estrogen Matters. And if you feel dismissed, find a new doctor. You deserve to be heard by your doctor.
Final Word: Midlife Isn’t a Crisis, It’s a Power Surge
These books aren’t about surviving menopause—they’re about owning it. Women in midlife are leading businesses, raising families, starting second careers, exploring the world, and learning how to live boldly in their own skin.
Let’s stop whispering about menopause and start making noise.
Which book spoke to you most?
We’d love to hear what resonated or welcome your recommends! Comment below or share this post with a friend who needs to know she’s not alone. Let’s rewrite the menopause story—together.
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Looking for more menopause support?Feeling like your body’s in rebellion? Don’t just read about menopause—train for it. Discover why strength training is the secret weapon every menopausal woman needs (and how to get started even if you’re a total beginner).
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