Menopause Confidential: A Doctor Reveals the Secrets to Thriving Through Midlife

An authoritative guide to understanding and navigating the hormonal changes and health issues women experience in midlife and beyond, from one of the leading medical experts in the field.

The physical changes that occur after women turn forty are unavoidable—and can be unnerving. Menopause affects every aspect of life—from sex and sleep to mood and mental clarity to weight and body temperature. While there are a number of resources available, many are confusing and contradictory. Now, Manhattan gynecologist Dr. Tara Allmen, an experienced, nationally board-certified menopause practitioner and the recipient of the 2015 Doctor’s Choice National Award for Obstetrics & Gynecology, shares her knowledge to help women be their happiest and healthiest, and turn this challenging time into an exciting one.

Written in her effervescent yet assured voice, Menopause Confidential provides simple strategies and cutting-edge information on:

• hormonal changes and the symptoms of perimenopause and menopause;
• the health risks associated with midlife—from cutting through the conflicting opinions and advice about health screenings (Do I really need a colonoscopy? How often should I get a mammogram?) to common medical conditions, such as osteoporosis;
• various remedies, both allopathic and natural, to combat symptoms and empower women to make the best choices for their individual needs;
• practical tips and resources for mitigating the effects of menopause.

Fifty-one-year-old Dr. Allmen knows firsthand what women are going through, and shares stories of her own personal travails and solutions. Women can’t turn back the clock, but they can take control of their health and flourish in midlife. Menopause Confidential encourages them to be informed, be proactive, and be their greatest selves.

“Stemming from more than just a gynecological context, this book offers intimate and honest advice on the cumulative menopausal experience. VERDICT: Recommended for women over 40 or those looking for insight into women’s health.” — Library Journal

Menopause Confidential is real, witty, and greatly needed. Dr. Allmen takes the myth out of perimenopause and menopause. She is one of us and that’s powerful. This book will not be the next door stopper but the book that changes and saves women’s lives. — Michelle King Robson, Founder of HER Inc. (EmpowHER and SkinSAFE)

Dr. Tara Allmen offers sound, medically accurate advice with verve, aplomb, and an incredible sense of humor. Menopause Confidential is an overwhelming success. Every woman over forty should read it. — James A. Simon, MD, Clinical Professor at George Washington University, Women's Health & Research Consultants in Washington, DC

Dr. Allmen has a way of turning uncomfortable and awkward topics into informative action plans. I highly recommend this book, which will leave any reader more knowledgeable and with a feeling of empowerment and optimism. It’s a tremendous service to womankind. — Dr. Beverly Wendland, Dean of Arts and Sciences, Johns Hopkins University

“As a midwife and women’s health care provider, I highly recommend this very humorous, well written and researched book to everyone. In addition, I think it should definitely be required reading for every nursing, medical and midwifery student early in their educational program.” — John Fassett, MS, CNM, RNP, California Pacific Medical Center, Sutter Pacific Medical Foundation

Menopause Confidential is fun and informative, factual and entertaining. Dr. Allmen’s style is causal and engaging, making for a book that is simply hard to put down. Great gift for women marching toward mid-life ― and their loved ones accompanying them. Highly recommended. — George F. Sawaya, MD, Professor Obstetrics, Gynecology and Reproductive Sciences, Epidemiology & Biostatistics, University of California, San Francisco

One of America’s leading experts in midlife women’s health, Dr. Tara Allmen, delivers a head-to-toe-and-everything-in-between guide to understanding and significantly improving the symptoms of perimenopause and menopause. Be forewarned. This is not your mother’s menopause book. It is the most up-to-date, scientifically accurate, and practical guide to navigating one of the most challenging times of your life.

For most of us, the midlife journey begins in our forties, when we start to notice the inevitable signs of aging. Who amongst us is prepared for all of the changes that our bodies will undergo? Too many of us arrive at this life-altering and mysterious journey without a clue. It’s no wonder that hitting the perimenopausal and menopausal years throws us for a loop. It doesn’t have to be all sweaty, sleepless nights; dispiriting weight gain; irritable moods; and diminished sex drive. Are you wondering if you will ever feel like your normal self again? Dr. Allmen’s answer is definitely, “Yes!”

Dr. Allmen writes, “I want you to start feeling and looking better right now and also make great choices for your health in the future. How often do you need to get a Pap? What about a mammogram and colonoscopy? How can you guard against heart disease, the number one killer of women in the United States? What is the secret to losing weight in midlife? Is hormone therapy something to consider? There is a lot of confusion out there. Even the stuff that is on target can be overwhelming. So do not throw up your hands in frustration and accept less than the best. You will feel like yourself again. Health is on the way!”

Menopause Confidential will address your questions and concerns with easy-to-understand information that is based on scientific evidence. Far more than just a compendium of advice for dealing with hot flashes and midlife muffin top, this book proves that midlife can be the beginning of the best years of your life.

Tara Allmen, MD, is one of America’s leading experts in midlife women’s health. She is a board-certified gynecologist and NAMS-certified menopause practitioner (NCMP). Dr. Allmen has educated thousands of medical professionals around the country in perimenopausal and menopausal medicine. She has been featured on the Dr. Oz Show as well as Good Morning America, NBC, CBS, and FOX News. She lives in New York City with her handsome husband, two adorable children, and a small dog named Sadie.