Understanding Menopause. Rev. ed.

Jane Heath teaches psychology at Ryerson University.

In this revised edition of her 1988 book, the author draws on anecdotal
information from readers’ responses to a monthly newsletter on
menopause, as well as on a wide variety of medical, holistic, and
naturopathic sources. Cobb discusses menopausal signs and symptoms and
ways of coping with them; current research on such issues as hormone
replacement therapy, hysterectomy, and the role of diet and exercise in
averting or ameliorating associated conditions like heart disease and
osteoporosis; and psychological issues, such as sexual relationships,
friendships, and the relation of the menopause to midlife depression.
The book includes specific references for each chapter, a list of
general references (annotated) on menopause and women’s health-related
topics, a selection of films and videotapes, and a list of organizations
that deal with women’s health. An appendix lists resources available
to women seeking help for menopause-related problems.

The author attempts to provide a balanced, informative view of such
controversial issues as hormone therapy and the high rate of
hysterectomy in North America. Although her own stance becomes clear (a
noninterventionist diet and exercise approach), she does succeed in
presenting both sides of these complex questions in a relatively
nonjudgmental fashion. At times, particularly in the sections dealing
with signs and symptoms of menopause, and with remedies medical and
nonmedical, one wishes for a somewhat more evaluative approach. For
example, the book presents a confusing multiplicity of remedies for
menopausal difficulties but makes little attempt to evaluate their
effectiveness in a rigorous manner. Nevertheless, as a source of
straightforward, accessible information for those approaching or
undergoing menopause, Understanding Menopause should prove a readable
and useful resource.