This book started with a flash—Alkon's first hot flash. Drenching night sweats, insomnia, and brain fog soon followed—along with shame at feeling bewilderingly enraged at everyone and everything. Alkon, an award-winning science columnist and author, wanted to turn to her doctor. But there was a problem: More than half of the medical care we get in the US may not be "based on, or supported by, adequate evidence," according to the US National Academy of Medicine.
Knowing this, Alkon began a deep dive into the research on menopause and perimenopause––the 3 to 10 years leading up to menopause when women's symptoms are widely ignored, dismissed, and misdiagnosed (despite doctors having every intention of helping their patients). She was shocked by what she found:
This meticulously researched book is written in clear, everyday language that you don't need the slightest science background to understand (along with Alkon's signature dark humor). Alkon equips you with the exact words to confidently ask critical questions and motivate your doctor to partner with you and treat you appropriately––instead of giving you the "treatment" her favorite bus driver got: told by her doctor to "just wait out" her raging insomnia, night sweats, and hot flashes. Alkon's ultimate goal: Empowering all women with the science and strategies they need to get the evidence-based care they expect and deserve.