The Secret Pleasures of Menopause »

Christiane Northrup, M.D., a board-certified ob-gyn, is a visionary pioneer; beloved authority in women’s health and wellness; and the author of the New York Times bestsellers Women’s Bodies, Women’s Wisdom and The Wisdom of Menopause. Her third book, Mother-Daughter Wisdom, was voted Amazon’s number one book of the year in both Parenting and Mind/Body Health in 2005. Following a 25-year career in both academic medicine and private practice, Dr. Northrup now devotes her time to helping women create vibrant health through tapping into their inner wisdom.

The Secret Pleasures of Menopause is a groundbreaking book that is long overdue! Christiane Northrup, M.D., delivers a breakthrough message that will help millions and millions of perimenopausal and menopausal women just like you understand that at menopause . . . life has just begun! It is the beginning of a very exciting and fulfilling time, full of pleasure beyond your wildest dreams!Dr. Northrup believes that it’s time for you to step forward and learn to enjoy the best years of your life! Even though studies show that menopause doesn’t decrease libido, ease of reaching orgasm, or sexual satisfaction, the majority of menopausal women aren’t experiencing the pleasure and sexual satisfaction that is their birthright. It is a long-held misconception that menopause signals “the beginning of the end,” and nothing could be further from the truth.In this fascinating book, Dr. Northrup candidly guides you toward experiencing life after 50 as the most pleasurable time of your life!

Karen McNally Bensing - Library Journal

For many women, hormonal fluctuations accompanying menopause cause a variety of unpleasant, sometimes debilitating symptoms-hot flashes, mood swings, insomnia, night sweats, forgetfulness, osteoporosis, and diminished sex drive. Yet the end of a woman's reproductive life can also be a time of "personal rebirth," an opportunity to "experience unlimited pleasure that creates vibrant physical and emotional health," writes Northrup (Women's Bodies, Women's Wisdom; The Wisdom of Menopause). Her goal here is to demonstrate "how pleasure heals the body," and she argues that living life as a sexual, sensuous woman "will enhance every aspect of your health." Northrup offers a variety of techniques for cultivating pleasure: personal pampering, engaging in creative activities (repainting the bedroom; keeping a journal), letting go of the past, practicing forgiveness, and exploring the "Seven Secret Keys" that enhance sexuality and sensual pleasure. Not all women will appreciate Northrup's breezy girl-talk writing, and some may find the self-help techniques reminiscent of junior high. Recommended for comprehensive women's health collections.