The New York Times bestselling author of The XX Brain outlines the latest science showing how to navigate perimenopause and menopause successfully, and come out the other side with an even better brain.

Menopause and perimenopause are still a black box to most doctors, leaving patients exasperated as they grapple with symptoms ranging from hot flushes to insomnia and brain fog. As a leading neuroscientist and women's brain health specialist, Dr Lisa Mosconi unravels the mystery by revealing how menopause doesn't impact just the ovaries, but is a hormonal show in which the brain takes centre stage.

The decline of oestrogen during menopause influences everything from body temperature to mood and memory, potentially paving the way for cognitive decline later in life. To conquer these challenges successfully, Mosconi brings us the latest approaches: from cutting-edge hormone replacement therapies such as 'designer oestrogens' to the role of hormonal contraception, and key lifestyle changes encompassing diet, exercise, self-care, and self-talk.

Best of all, Mosconi dispels the myth that menopause signifies an end, demonstrating it's actually a transition. Contrary to popular belief, if we know how to take care of ourselves during menopause, we can emerge with a renewed, enhanced brain—and usher in a meaningful and vibrant new chapter of life.