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Penguin Life Expert
Gut vorbereitet in die Perimenopause und die Wechseljahre
Take charge of your menopause and feel great
Dr Louise Newson is the UK's leading menopause specialist, and she's determined to help women thrive during the menopause.
Despite being something that almost every woman will experience at some point in their lives, misdiagnosis, misinformation and stigma are commonplace. In Preparing for the Perimenopause and Menopause, Dr Newson will demystify the menopause and show why every woman should be perimenopause aware, regardless of their age.
Using new research, expert advice and empowering patient stories from a diverse range of women who have struggled to secure adequate treatment and correct diagnosis, Dr Newson will equip you with expert advice and practical tips on:
- Common and 'taboo' symptoms to look out for
- HRT treatment options
- Going through an early menopause
- Getting a good night sleep
- Optimising your nutrition in the menopause
- Exercising for a better menopause
- Your mental health during the menopause
Dr Newson empowers women to confidently take charge of their health and their changing bodies. It's never too early to learn about the perimenopause or menopause and this compact guide will equip you with everything you need to know.
Dr Louise Newson is the UK's leading menopause specialist, and she's determined to help women thrive during the menopause.
Despite being something that almost every woman will experience at some point in their lives, misdiagnosis, misinformation and stigma are commonplace. In Preparing for the Perimenopause and Menopause, Dr Newson will demystify the menopause and show why every woman should be perimenopause aware, regardless of their age.
Using new research, expert advice and empowering patient stories from a diverse range of women who have struggled to secure adequate treatment and correct diagnosis, Dr Newson will equip you with expert advice and practical tips on:
- Common and 'taboo' symptoms to look out for
- HRT treatment options
- Going through an early menopause
- Getting a good night sleep
- Optimising your nutrition in the menopause
- Exercising for a better menopause
- Your mental health during the menopause
Dr Newson empowers women to confidently take charge of their health and their changing bodies. It's never too early to learn about the perimenopause or menopause and this compact guide will equip you with everything you need to know.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 92 reviews
May 4, 2022
An interesting read with lots of good quality information to arm yourself with.
This goes over what to expect when peri menopausal or menopausal and empowers through giving you the tools to seek appropriate help.
This goes over what to expect when peri menopausal or menopausal and empowers through giving you the tools to seek appropriate help.
September 14, 2021
A book I shall be recommending to many women (and probably some men). It's simple and straightforward and tells you exactly what you need to know. I was feeling apprehensive about going to the GP about perimenopause symptoms but having read the book I now know exactly what I need to say, and what to expect. Thank you Dr Louise Newson!
September 3, 2021
This book provides clear and concise information about all aspects of the peri menopause and menopause. It has left me feeling informed and empowered to tackle the often difficult task of getting the right help & treatment from a GP.
The excellent discussion of the various treatment options & the risks and benefits of each has been most helpful. The inclusion of individual cases has also given an insight into what to expect from a GP in the worse case scenario and prepared me to fight for the right outcome no matter what . Thanks to Dr Newson I will not be fobbed off by a GP not up to date on current HRT studies and advice.
A must read for every woman.
The excellent discussion of the various treatment options & the risks and benefits of each has been most helpful. The inclusion of individual cases has also given an insight into what to expect from a GP in the worse case scenario and prepared me to fight for the right outcome no matter what . Thanks to Dr Newson I will not be fobbed off by a GP not up to date on current HRT studies and advice.
A must read for every woman.
September 8, 2024
I thought I'd brush up on some knowledge to see what's to come. Not only did I find out about it, I'm actually in it! Works out, my husband is also in the male version too!
This book gave me the tools to;
- Navigate what's to come
- Go to see my GP and talk about PM further
- Know my body and listen to it
- Talk to my peers and family about PM and P
- Look into RHT
A very insightful book that I got a lot from. I'm excited to take this next journey into PM and P but at the same time, I'm also not wanting to see what happens either 👀
This book gave me the tools to;
- Navigate what's to come
- Go to see my GP and talk about PM further
- Know my body and listen to it
- Talk to my peers and family about PM and P
- Look into RHT
A very insightful book that I got a lot from. I'm excited to take this next journey into PM and P but at the same time, I'm also not wanting to see what happens either 👀
October 15, 2021
So very helpful and informative !
How I wish this book had been available when I started the perimenopause. My experience was the common one of I just had to accept it was ' what happens ' and solutions were not forthcoming! Old information still being spouted by doctors when so much new research is available. This book is empowering.
How I wish this book had been available when I started the perimenopause. My experience was the common one of I just had to accept it was ' what happens ' and solutions were not forthcoming! Old information still being spouted by doctors when so much new research is available. This book is empowering.
September 14, 2021
Straightforward and informative, it gives women the tools they need to manage their peri menopause and menopause and improve their mental and physical health and well-being not only as they go through this but for the rest of their lives.
February 19, 2022
Menopause - a hormone deficiency which will effect at least 50% of the world population.
This book should be read by everyone - a well written, succinct but detailed explanation of a topic which too often is still treated as 'taboo'
This book should be read by everyone - a well written, succinct but detailed explanation of a topic which too often is still treated as 'taboo'
December 27, 2023
I’m a woman of a certain age whose close friends have over the past few years have got through the change in life and I know it’s coming to yours truly. I’ll admit, I feel slightly unprepared. I’m guessing like most, I thought my symptoms would be hot flushes, weight gain and the diminishing of my monthly cycle. But reading Newson’s rather insightful introduction to the menopause and its kid sibling the peri-menopause, there is so much more.
As I said this is an introduction but it’s a very informative one. I learnt a lot from my first read through. Certain sections instantly spoke to me as ones to return to – they got their corners turned (shocking behaviour I know). However, there was a lot to take in and I have a feeling I will be returning to this reference book as I move through the change.
Newson despite being a medical expert on the subject has written an accessible and readable book. It had a medical chat level but nothing too overwhelming from a layman’s perspective. I came out of it more educated than I went in. I know I need to learn more but I feel better prepared for what lies ahead for me. Definitely worth a read as an introduction to the menopause.
As I said this is an introduction but it’s a very informative one. I learnt a lot from my first read through. Certain sections instantly spoke to me as ones to return to – they got their corners turned (shocking behaviour I know). However, there was a lot to take in and I have a feeling I will be returning to this reference book as I move through the change.
Newson despite being a medical expert on the subject has written an accessible and readable book. It had a medical chat level but nothing too overwhelming from a layman’s perspective. I came out of it more educated than I went in. I know I need to learn more but I feel better prepared for what lies ahead for me. Definitely worth a read as an introduction to the menopause.
December 31, 2023
For a small book, this is such a useful and informative primer on the perimenopause & menopause. It's written in a very accessible way and is person-centred recognising the distress that those going through perimenopause and menopause can suffer and seeking to provide good information plus signposting to further resources. I think it's handy reference guide particularly for people on the cusp of or in the early stages of perimenopause.
May 14, 2024
Essential reading for anyone dealing with perimenopause and menopause. It's concise and full of information to help you recognise, understand and hopefully seek out the right treatment path.
August 30, 2021
Good for those who are new to this process! It's a straightforward book with basic information.
Sadly, for me, I felt like I already knew nearly all of this stuff and it wasn't offering anything new.
Sadly, for me, I felt like I already knew nearly all of this stuff and it wasn't offering anything new.
December 10, 2022
3.5 stars
Hormones suck, y'all. #3wordbookreview
Most dry of the menopause books I've read this year. (Not sure if that pun was intended?!) But a quick read and by an actual medical expert so that's always good! Straightens out some misinformation about hormone therapies as well.
Hormones suck, y'all. #3wordbookreview
Most dry of the menopause books I've read this year. (Not sure if that pun was intended?!) But a quick read and by an actual medical expert so that's always good! Straightens out some misinformation about hormone therapies as well.
August 21, 2023
Not as comprehensive as other books on the subject, I prefer Newson's latest book (The Definitive Guide to the Perimenopause and Menopause). Contained some useful information but very strongly HRT focused without enough alternative data.
September 16, 2021
A bit basic. Maybe I'm more ready than I thought
October 31, 2021
Very very repetitive
January 11, 2022
One of the joys of still being in touch with school friends is that you are often going through similar stages in life at the same time. We've been through the clubbing days, house buying and babies, and a while ago when I met up with some school friends they were talking about perimenopause! To be forewarned is to be forearmed, so when this was on kindle daily deal I picked it up.
This book sets out the wide range of symptoms that can be attributable to menopause (and there are a LOT) and the things in your body that can be affected by a reduction in hormones (pretty much everything). Dr Newson is a HUGE advocate of HRT, which is no longer made from horse wee like it used to be (gross) and is now much better and without some of the health risks it used to have.
One point Dr Newson makes, which I think is a fair one, is that in olden times once you hit menopause you were pretty much at the age that you would die so the health effects wouldn't be lasting; thankfully, these days that is not the case, and there is no need to spend half your life hormone deficient. This is especially important in light of the fact that hormones affect so much in our bodies including our memories, chance of dementia, bone density etc. etc. Just because your ancestors got through without HRT doesn't mean that you should have to unless you wish to - progress means we can do things differently.
I get the impression that things are improving in terms of menopause awareness and the care provided, but Dr Newson gives advice on how you can best prepare for a doctor's appointment in terms of recording your symptoms etc, and giving you the heads up on how mild depression brought on by menopause won't be solved by anti-depressants and how you can push back against doctors trying to prescribe this. There is also a free app (balance), which I haven't tried, but appreciate that it's there to help back up your requests to doctors.
On the whole I thought this was a good book. Dr Newson explains many things simply. If you are looking for a drug-free menopause book look somewhere else though as this strongly pushes HRT - the rationale is explained so I don't have an issue with this, just flagging for those who may be looking for an alternative approach.
I felt like I went away from this book knowing a lot more than when I began so on that basis I'd recommend this book.
This book sets out the wide range of symptoms that can be attributable to menopause (and there are a LOT) and the things in your body that can be affected by a reduction in hormones (pretty much everything). Dr Newson is a HUGE advocate of HRT, which is no longer made from horse wee like it used to be (gross) and is now much better and without some of the health risks it used to have.
One point Dr Newson makes, which I think is a fair one, is that in olden times once you hit menopause you were pretty much at the age that you would die so the health effects wouldn't be lasting; thankfully, these days that is not the case, and there is no need to spend half your life hormone deficient. This is especially important in light of the fact that hormones affect so much in our bodies including our memories, chance of dementia, bone density etc. etc. Just because your ancestors got through without HRT doesn't mean that you should have to unless you wish to - progress means we can do things differently.
I get the impression that things are improving in terms of menopause awareness and the care provided, but Dr Newson gives advice on how you can best prepare for a doctor's appointment in terms of recording your symptoms etc, and giving you the heads up on how mild depression brought on by menopause won't be solved by anti-depressants and how you can push back against doctors trying to prescribe this. There is also a free app (balance), which I haven't tried, but appreciate that it's there to help back up your requests to doctors.
On the whole I thought this was a good book. Dr Newson explains many things simply. If you are looking for a drug-free menopause book look somewhere else though as this strongly pushes HRT - the rationale is explained so I don't have an issue with this, just flagging for those who may be looking for an alternative approach.
I felt like I went away from this book knowing a lot more than when I began so on that basis I'd recommend this book.
February 21, 2022
I listened to this on audiobook, read by Amy Noble.
This was a helpful, condensed book. After listening to "The Menopause Manifesto" by Dr. Jen Gunter, this book felt very brief, yet to the point. I was grateful for several lightbulb moments pointing out that many of my symptoms I've been experiencing lately are most likely linked to peri/menopause. So, no, I'm not going insane. It's also a relief to know that there are solutions available that can address many of my symptoms.
She's got a helpful list of questions at the end of the book to take to your GP or PCP. I listened to this book and the previously mentioned "Menopause Manifesto" purposely to prepare myself for a discussion with my doctor. I'd recommend anyone looking to tackle this to read up on it themselves, as well, before discussing it with your doctor. We all need to be our own advocates when it comes to our health. Make absolutely sure that what you're reading, too, is CURRENT. Medicine changes quickly, so a book about menopause that's even 10 years old isn't going to be as helpful as one published within the last year or two.
I'd give this five stars, except for the fact that there is a LOT of self-promotion in this book. She frequently mentions her specialty Menopause Clinic, her website, her app, etc. When there's a lot of self-promotion going on in a book, it makes me feel like the author is biased, unfortunately. I only feel more confident with her advice because I'd previously read "The Menopause Manifesto" which provided similar advice, minus all the self-promotion.
This was a helpful, condensed book. After listening to "The Menopause Manifesto" by Dr. Jen Gunter, this book felt very brief, yet to the point. I was grateful for several lightbulb moments pointing out that many of my symptoms I've been experiencing lately are most likely linked to peri/menopause. So, no, I'm not going insane. It's also a relief to know that there are solutions available that can address many of my symptoms.
She's got a helpful list of questions at the end of the book to take to your GP or PCP. I listened to this book and the previously mentioned "Menopause Manifesto" purposely to prepare myself for a discussion with my doctor. I'd recommend anyone looking to tackle this to read up on it themselves, as well, before discussing it with your doctor. We all need to be our own advocates when it comes to our health. Make absolutely sure that what you're reading, too, is CURRENT. Medicine changes quickly, so a book about menopause that's even 10 years old isn't going to be as helpful as one published within the last year or two.
I'd give this five stars, except for the fact that there is a LOT of self-promotion in this book. She frequently mentions her specialty Menopause Clinic, her website, her app, etc. When there's a lot of self-promotion going on in a book, it makes me feel like the author is biased, unfortunately. I only feel more confident with her advice because I'd previously read "The Menopause Manifesto" which provided similar advice, minus all the self-promotion.
April 24, 2022
I heard about this on TV and thought it would be useful to arm myself for the future. I ended up reading it this weekend when I had odd PMS symptoms which are of course similar to menopause or peri-menopausal symptoms....
Dr Louise Newson is a GP and when she went through her own menopause decided to research more into it and set up her own app and private clinic. This book gives you a clear guide on why the menopause happens and possible symptoms. It also gives you info about various treatments with the focus being on HRT but it also talks about supplements, diet, mental health and exercise. Newson also talks about early menopause and how that needs to be treated differently as well as going through the menopause while having cancer.
I found this book informative and learned a few tips I can do now. Reading the individual stories was particularly enlightening and also highlighted how far we still need to go for the menopause to be taken seriously and diagnosed correctly. The fact that the health secretary announced he is going to appoint an HRT tsar to sort out the shortages caused by Brexit doesn't inspire hope either.
A useful book which arms you with the basics and what to say to your doctor. It would have been nice to have heard from a more varied demographic of women but Newson has written an insightful little book.
Dr Louise Newson is a GP and when she went through her own menopause decided to research more into it and set up her own app and private clinic. This book gives you a clear guide on why the menopause happens and possible symptoms. It also gives you info about various treatments with the focus being on HRT but it also talks about supplements, diet, mental health and exercise. Newson also talks about early menopause and how that needs to be treated differently as well as going through the menopause while having cancer.
I found this book informative and learned a few tips I can do now. Reading the individual stories was particularly enlightening and also highlighted how far we still need to go for the menopause to be taken seriously and diagnosed correctly. The fact that the health secretary announced he is going to appoint an HRT tsar to sort out the shortages caused by Brexit doesn't inspire hope either.
A useful book which arms you with the basics and what to say to your doctor. It would have been nice to have heard from a more varied demographic of women but Newson has written an insightful little book.
June 25, 2024
This little book is jam-packed with information about perimenopause and menopause, establishing their definitions and their vast array of symptoms. The explanations are presented in simple language, describing what women are expected to go through during this stage of their lives.
It clarifies how women’s health has been understudied and how often doctors have very little or misinformation about this period in women’s lives, frequently being dismissive or belittling symptoms.
It also presents different case studies showing how perimenopause and menopause can present in women of various ages, as well as in those who’ve had hysterectomy and cancer.
It is comprehensive and offers insights into sleeping, exercise, and eating to improve symptoms and quality of life. It also explains the intricacies of Hormonal Replacement Therapy (HRT), including different methods, what’s involved, advantages and potential setbacks.
It is a great companion book and reference guide for any woman looking to her years ahead.
It clarifies how women’s health has been understudied and how often doctors have very little or misinformation about this period in women’s lives, frequently being dismissive or belittling symptoms.
It also presents different case studies showing how perimenopause and menopause can present in women of various ages, as well as in those who’ve had hysterectomy and cancer.
It is comprehensive and offers insights into sleeping, exercise, and eating to improve symptoms and quality of life. It also explains the intricacies of Hormonal Replacement Therapy (HRT), including different methods, what’s involved, advantages and potential setbacks.
It is a great companion book and reference guide for any woman looking to her years ahead.
August 8, 2022
Excellent overview and introduction to the subject with very helpful guidance on how to approach the subject and prepare for a discussion with the GP. Full of resources on where to find more information on any area and symptoms of the periomenopause/menopause that one might be concerned about.
There are lots of other books available for more in-depth research or that describe a more personal experience (Perimenopause Power by Masie Hill or Cracking the Menopause by Mariella Frostrup, to quote just a couple).
Another brilliant resource is the recently released BBC Podcast: 28ish Days Later (https://www.bbc.co.uk/programmes/p0bv...)
There are lots of other books available for more in-depth research or that describe a more personal experience (Perimenopause Power by Masie Hill or Cracking the Menopause by Mariella Frostrup, to quote just a couple).
Another brilliant resource is the recently released BBC Podcast: 28ish Days Later (https://www.bbc.co.uk/programmes/p0bv...)
May 30, 2023
I read this mostly for work purposes, and ended up getting through it all in one afternoon! There's lots of very thorough and no-nonsense information in here, all written in a relaxed and easy manner. It is galling though, to think of the countless number of women who have struggled with peri/menopausal symptoms, and not received adequate support from their GPs. Like with most health problems related to women - it's too often brushed under the carpet of "women's things", and not taken seriously. I have learned so much valuable information from this, and highly recommend it as an introduction to the peri/menopause.
January 10, 2023
This is probably the most personally helpful book I will read this year. Perhaps this decade. It is an honest look at what women face and practical advice about how to navigate. It is not a long hard read. It took me so long because I re-read several sections and also because the holidays were upon me when I got it! Finally had time to finish it while on vacation. Gave it to a friend. Will likely pick up a couple more copies, one to keep and others to give.
A big thanks to James Smith, PT who had Dr. Newson on his podcast last year.
A big thanks to James Smith, PT who had Dr. Newson on his podcast last year.
May 30, 2025
I loved this book—it’s clear, informative, and incredibly empowering. Dr. Louise Newson explains everything in a practical, approachable way, and I felt reassured and better prepared after reading it.
This is the kind of book I’ll keep coming back to. It’s going to be my guide through this stage of life, and I highly recommend it to anyone looking for trustworthy, compassionate advice on perimenopause and menopause.
Rating: 5/5 – A must-read. Supportive, science-based, and full of helpful guidance.
This is the kind of book I’ll keep coming back to. It’s going to be my guide through this stage of life, and I highly recommend it to anyone looking for trustworthy, compassionate advice on perimenopause and menopause.
Rating: 5/5 – A must-read. Supportive, science-based, and full of helpful guidance.
October 21, 2021
What a fab guide to preparing for the blasted menopause this is!
Read it in a jiffy and it is so clear and precise that I feel it has complemented my previous menopause education perfectly.
I will be having my appointment at the Newson Health Centre soon and this little book has helped prepare myself even better.
Give this a read and definitely gift it to the women in your life. All women should read this book!
Read it in a jiffy and it is so clear and precise that I feel it has complemented my previous menopause education perfectly.
I will be having my appointment at the Newson Health Centre soon and this little book has helped prepare myself even better.
Give this a read and definitely gift it to the women in your life. All women should read this book!
May 13, 2022
A must read for all "women of a certain age". A practical guide to living, (and surviving!) perimenopause and menopause but also a great tool to empower women to be able to take control of their lives at a time when you feel like everything is in chaos and you are going mad! I recommend male partners of suffering women should read it, too to get an idea of what she is going through and be better able to offer help and support.
May 21, 2022
Important reading for women in their 30s, 40s and beyond about the changes to hormone levels that, typically, occur in your 50s. There are huge implications for health and happiness of women as these changes start and it is best to knowledgeable about them and seek the help of your GP or a menopause specialist. Don't suffer in silence but know there is help available, should you need it. Thank you, Louise, for this succinct guide and all your years of expertise.
December 3, 2021
3,5 stars
This little book gives a clear picture of perimenopause and menopause - the causes and the symptoms, what treatment options are available, what lifestyle changes are needed. I find the part where Dr. Newson talks about differences between clinical depression and perimenopause- and menopause- related mental health symptoms particularly important.
This little book gives a clear picture of perimenopause and menopause - the causes and the symptoms, what treatment options are available, what lifestyle changes are needed. I find the part where Dr. Newson talks about differences between clinical depression and perimenopause- and menopause- related mental health symptoms particularly important.
February 7, 2022
Really helpful overview of everything to do with menopause
Informative and well structured covering everything from types of HRT, when appropriate to take HRT, how to take it, and for how long, and alternatives in the event you cannot take HRT. Plus a helpful list of questions to ask your health care provider.
Informative and well structured covering everything from types of HRT, when appropriate to take HRT, how to take it, and for how long, and alternatives in the event you cannot take HRT. Plus a helpful list of questions to ask your health care provider.
February 22, 2022
Every women should read this book! Such a balanced view on the options for women facing peri menopause and menopause. Has given me real insight and understanding to what my options are-all females should be given this book in their teenage years-why aren’t we educated on such a topic in schools is beyond me!
September 5, 2022
A slim, clearly written and easy to understand volume containing all you need to know to take control of your menopause. Sadly many GPs are not educated about this important aspect of women’s health and fail to diagnose and treat effectively. This book will help you navigate the system to get what you need. Health information at its best.
Displaying 1 - 30 of 92 reviews