The Perfect Menopause: 7 Steps to the Best Time of Your Life

Dr. Henry M. Hess, MD, PhD with Tiffany Farrell
Westfall Park Publishing Group (2008)
ISBN 9781604029352
Reviewed by Olivera Baumgartner-Jackson for Reader Views (4/08) 


Dr. Hess’ book “The Perfect Menopause” carries an intriguing subtitle – “7 Steps to the Best Time of Your Life.” Speaking to women around me, I have to admit I’ve never heard the words ‘menopause,’ ‘perfect’ and ‘best time’ mentioned together, in one sentence. Needless to say, I was curious and more than just a little skeptical…

Dr. Hess approaches the subject of menopause with a holistic and very much no-nonsense approach. It became immediately obvious to me that he has done extremely extensive research and that he evidently keeps informed about the current research and the numerous updates in the field of menopause management and treatments. While clearly expert, his writing never becomes too technical for an average reader and he never sounds condescending, which is something I’ve noticed in certain other books from the medical field. Dr. Hess sounds like somebody one would love to meet and have for a healthcare provider.

While guiding women through the sometimes very confusing data on menopause, possible treatments, treatment goals, symptoms management and general improvement in all of the related areas, Dr. Hess shows extreme respect for other people working in the field of menopause research and treatment, whether they are medical experts or simply women who have experienced it and decided to share their insight with others. While cautioning the reader to be diligent when deciding for certain treatments, Dr. Hess does not discount simple remedies, herbs, exercise and other, possibly less traditional ways of managing one’s symptoms. He also clarifies the immensely confusing issue of hormonal treatments, clarifies the results of past studies and offers the readers a comprehensive overview of hormonal treatment options.

I have no doubt that “The Perfect Menopause” should be present on the bookshelves of women in any stage of menopause, whether we are just entering it or are well in the midst of it. It should prove to be invaluable in gathering information as well as facilitating the future discussions with your health provider. Written in a clear and very upbeat voice, this is a great companion on the voyage through a certain unavoidable life stage. And with it, the journey should be considerably more pleasant.

Make comment on weblog