Perimenopause For Dummies

by Rebecca Levy-Gantt

Get to know perimenopause and manage troublesome symptoms Perimenopause For Dummies is a practical and comprehensive guide to the emotional, mental, and physical changes that begin to happen as you approach menopause. Demystify the connection between hormones and aging and make informed choices about how to deal with symptoms like weight gain, hot flashes, depression, mood swings, and insomnia. You’ll learn about natural remedies and medical interventions that can ease the transition between fertility and menopause. Most importantly, you’ll know what to expect, so the changes happening in your body won’t take you by surprise. This Dummies guide is like a trusted friend who can guide you through your life’s next chapter. Perimenopause For Dummies offers clear, compassionate answers for anyone who is currently experiencing perimenopause or who is ready to learn more about it.

298 pages, Paperback

Published November 30, 2023

Reviews

[Emslo · Rating 5 out of 5]

Well, ready or not, it’s time to become better educated about where my body is heading. This was a sensitive book written by a doctor who obviously had lots of experience and knowledge about menopause and perimenopause. A bit repetitive perhaps, but wholistic with specific examples. Overall, empowering and encouraging, leaving me with a feeling that there are plenty actions I can take to stay healthy, feel good, and set myself up for a great midlife stage!

[The DO]

Perimenopause for Dummies,” the recent addition to the famous “Wiley” series by publisher John Wiley & Sons, Inc., assumes the readers know almost nothing about the topic of perimenopause. Nothing could be truer. Many people have not even heard the term, much less understand the dozens of symptoms and implications of the many aspects of the transitional period that precedes menopause.

Menopause and the study of women’s health, in general, have historically gotten short shrift in the medical and academic establishment. This has made it difficult for many women experiencing perimenopause to get the information and the help that they need.

In an ideal world, all women would have access to an empathetic, relatable OB-GYN with credentials as a certified menopause practitioner who could provide explanations of symptoms, share information about possible treatments and answer sensitive questions about perimenopause.

Of course, in the actual world, this is far from the case. Author Rebecca Levy-Gantt, DO, attempts to help bridge the gap with this book. In her relatable introduction, Dr. Levy-Gantt introduces the topic and herself to her readers. It feels like sitting down for coffee with your really smart girlfriend who happens to be an expert in the field.

Read our entire review and see more book club selections on The DO!

[Steph B · Rating 5 out of 5]

I highly recommend this as a book that every woman should own. The layout and information are perfect, clear, and concise. You can easily jump to whatever topic is relevant at the time which makes it an amazing guide to return to again and again throughout the different stages of perimenopause.

There is so much confusion out there about perimenopause and what is normal. This book helps cut through that noise. It explains symptoms, treatment options, and lifestyle support in a way that feels both validating and empowering. The writing is friendly and straightforward without being overly simplistic, clinically complicated, or rambling ons of real-life examples; making it comforting to read while still being packed with credible information.

It is filled with practical tips and supportive suggestions along with a huge amount of trustworthy medical guidance. There are sections that help you understand what is happening in your body and others that give you actionable steps you can take right away. It covers topics that many other books ignore, or only skim over. It also encourages women to advocate for themselves and to feel confident seeking help when they need it.

I have read a handful of other perimenopause books that were suggested to me and I dreaded getting through those because they felt overwhelming or too informal or just not helpful. This one is by far the best. It is readable, reassuring, and incredibly useful.

A must have for anyone navigating perimenopause or wanting to feel better prepared for what is ahead. I wish I had found it sooner.

[Beverly Joyce · Rating 5 out of 5]

Dr. Levy-Gantt has written the perfect mix of educational information about perimenopause with a manual for healthy living. Women of any age can benefit from the chapters on diet, exercise and mindset, and these are even more important during the midlife transition.

The medical portions of the book are very thorough and informative, but not overly complicated. Anyone reading the chapters describing anatomy and physiology will be able to easily understand them. And those questions that women don't feel comfortable bringing up (libido, bladder leakage, painful intercourse) are discussed in detail.

For the treatment of perimenopausal symptoms, the book describes FDA-approved prescription options, off-label options, as well as the safety and efficacy of over-the-counter herbal supplements. She fairly presents arguments for and against testosterone treatment for low libido. She frequently reminds readers of danger signs, and that every woman should find a practitioner well-versed in menopause care. The field of menopause medicine is nuanced and requires a provider who will weigh your particular symptoms with your general state of health and desires, and we are lucky to have Dr. Levy-Gantt as one of the experts in the field. I will be highly recommending this book to my patients.

[Inda S]

First-rate read about perimenopause. Focuses on the changes that perimenopause brings and suggests approaches for managing those changes. Perimenopause for dummies isn’t only for women wanting to understand perimenopause. Much of the information—from nap apps, incontinence, and prioritizing sleep to workout intensity, family history, and osteopenia—will benefit both pre- and post perimenopause readers. 

[Sara · Rating 5 out of 5]

A practical guide to all things perimenopause including supplements (with research based evidence), examples, sleep, exercise, nutrition, etc.

[Zara · Rating 5 out of 5]

Great overview to arm someone with info to ask their doctor. Great list of resources as well. Not a comprehensive guide, but a great starter.

[Annie · Rating 5 out of 5]

Informative and helpful