Cover Perimenopause typically starts eight to ten years before menopause, when symptoms are often shrugged off. (Photo: Yanalya / Freepik)
Perimenopause typically starts eight to ten years before menopause, when symptoms are often shrugged off. (Photo: Yanalya / Freepik)
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Discover 7 empowering books on perimenopause that offer knowledge and confidence for this life-changing journey
Perimenopause is a phase that often arrives undetected, leaving many women unprepared for the physical and emotional shifts it brings. While the topic has gained more attention in recent years, a wealth of misinformation and oversimplification still clouds the conversation. Fortunately, several books written by women offer nuanced, evidence-based insights into this transitional period. These works provide not only scientific understanding but also practical advice, empowering women to navigate perimenopause with confidence.
Read more: 7 honest books on ageing that are good for the soul
1. ‘Perimenopause Power’ by Maisie Hill
Above ‘Perimenopause Power’ by Maisie Hill (Photo: Green Tree)
‘Perimenopause Power’ by Maisie Hill (Photo: Green Tree)
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Maisie Hill's Perimenopause Power stands out for its comprehensive approach to understanding hormonal fluctuations during perimenopause. Drawing from her background as a women’s health practitioner, Hill delves into the science of hormonal changes, offering readers a clear roadmap to manage symptoms effectively. The book is structured to guide women through the various stages of perimenopause, providing actionable strategies to alleviate common issues such as sleep disturbances, mood swings and physical discomfort.
2. ‘Why We Can't Sleep’ by Ada Calhoun
Above ‘Why We Can't Sleep’ by Ada Calhoun (Photo: Grove Press UK)
‘Why We Can't Sleep’ by Ada Calhoun (Photo: Grove Press UK)
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Ada Calhoun's Why We Can't Sleep shifts the focus from biological to sociocultural factors affecting women in midlife. Calhoun examines the unique pressures faced by Generation X women, including career expectations, caregiving responsibilities and societal standards of beauty. Through personal narratives and interviews, she highlights how these external stressors intersect with the internal changes of perimenopause, often exacerbating symptoms like insomnia and anxiety. The book serves as both a mirror and a manifesto, encouraging women to acknowledge and address these compounded challenges.
3. ‘The Menopause Brain’ by Lisa Mosconi, PhD
Above ‘The Menopause Brain: New Science Empowers Women to Navigate the Pivotal Transition with Knowledge and Confidence’ by Lisa Mosconi, PhD (Photo: Avery)
‘The Menopause Brain: New Science Empowers Women to Navigate the Pivotal Transition with Knowledge and Confidence’ by Lisa Mosconi, PhD (Photo: Avery)
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In The Menopause Brain, Dr Lisa Mosconi, a neuroscientist, explores the cognitive implications of perimenopause. She presents research indicating that hormonal changes during this period can affect brain function, leading to issues such as memory lapses and brain fog. However, Mosconi also emphasises the brain’s plasticity and offers strategies to mitigate these effects, including lifestyle modifications and, when appropriate, medical interventions. Her work provides a scientific yet accessible perspective on maintaining cognitive health during perimenopause.
4. ‘Before the Change’ by Ann Louise Gittleman
Above ‘Before the Change’ by Ann Louise Gittleman (Photo: HarperOne)
‘Before the Change’ by Ann Louise Gittleman (Photo: HarperOne)
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Ann Louise Gittleman’s Before the Change takes a nutritional approach to managing perimenopause. Gittleman, a renowned nutritionist, outlines dietary strategies aimed at balancing hormones and alleviating symptoms. She discusses the importance of specific nutrients, such as magnesium and vitamin B6, and how they can support the body during this transition. The book also addresses lifestyle factors, including stress management and physical activity, providing a holistic framework for women seeking to take charge of their health before menopause.
5. ‘Preparing for the Perimenopause and Menopause’ by Dr Louise Newson
Above ‘Preparing for the Perimenopause and Menopause’ by Dr Louise Newson (Photo: Penguin)
‘Preparing for the Perimenopause and Menopause’ by Dr Louise Newson (Photo: Penguin)
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Dr Louise Newson’s guide is a practical resource for women looking to understand and prepare for the changes associated with perimenopause and menopause. As a GP and menopause specialist, Dr Newson offers evidence-based advice on symptom management, hormone replacement therapy and lifestyle adjustments. The book is designed to demystify the medical aspects of this life stage, empowering women to make informed decisions about their health.
6. ‘So Hot Right Now: The Little Book of Perimenopause’ by Alex Greengate
Above ‘So Hot Right Now: The Little Book of Perimenopause’ by Alex Greengate (Photo: Vie)
‘So Hot Right Now: The Little Book of Perimenopause’ by Alex Greengate (Photo: Vie)
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Alex Greengate’s concise volume provides a light-hearted yet informative look at perimenopause. While not as in-depth as other works, it serves as an accessible entry point for those new to the topic. Greengate addresses common symptoms and offers practical tips for managing them, making the book a useful companion for women seeking straightforward information without overwhelming detail.
7. ‘How the Female Body Works’ by Polly Vernon
Above ‘How the Female Body Works’ by Polly Vernon (Photo: New River)
‘How the Female Body Works’ by Polly Vernon (Photo: New River)
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Polly Vernon's How the Female Body Works is an exploration of the female body through the lens of personal experience and scientific inquiry. Vernon engages with experts across various fields to understand the physiological and emotional changes women undergo, including those related to perimenopause. The book combines storytelling with factual information, offering readers a relatable and informative perspective on the complexities of the female body.
These books collectively offer a multifaceted view of perimenopause, blending scientific research with personal narratives and practical advice. They serve as valuable resources for women seeking to navigate this transitional period with knowledge and agency.
Chonx Tibajia is a senior editor at Tatler Asia’s T-Labs team, where she writes widely on lifestyle subjects including beauty, style, entertainment and travel. She has a long career in journalism, including roles as a columnist at The Philippine Star, and is the founder of the creative platform Pineappleversed. Beyond Tatler, her bylines appear in regional lifestyle and business publications, showcasing a broad portfolio that spans beauty trends, travel guides and culture pieces.
