Customer Reviews

The Estrogen Errors: Why Progesterone Is Better for Women's Health

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Without Dr. Prior's work I would probably have been on a list for a hysterectomy by now, but as it is, I am managing a frightfully difficult perimenopause without such dire intervention. The book is not just about perimenopause, though. You'll also learn about the medicalization of osteoporosis, medical contribution to the perpetuation of the feminine stereotype, and the reality of how research funding is skewed. Check out the information she disseminates from The Centre for Menstrual Cycle and Ovulation Research website for a preview of some of what the book contains. Her research into how progesterone, or lack of it, affects us is beginning to filter down, and for that we should all (including those near and dear to the women affected) be grateful.

Trying to figure out why you have night sweats when you're too young for menopause? Wondering why your doctors talks about estrogen deficiency and hormone replacement therapy when you remember the media coverage of the Women's Health Initiative stopping their trial? This is the book that explains it all - from perimenopause to the prevalence of estrogen in thinking about women's health.

Baxter and Prior have done extensive research on women's hormones, particularly estrogen and progesterone. In clear language they explain how they fluctuate throughout a women's cycle and life and how they interact with each other. It's not low estrogen that causes those night sweats - and all the other symptoms that can occur during perimenopause - it's actually high estrogen and the resulting imbalance between the two hormones. The authors also examine cardiovascular disease, osteoporosis and breast cancer - `aging' diseases often associated with menopause - and their connection to hormones. They explode the myths around estrogen keeping you young, reducing cardiovascular risk and preventing bone loss. They also discuss hormones and breast cancer and the role of mammograms.

Aside from explaining the medical side, what I found of particular interest was the explanation for why menopause is seen as a medical problem and how estrogen came to be the solution. The authors provide an historical, socio-cultural and political context for the medicalization of menopause.

One of the authors' stated goals in writing this book was to provide women with tools to help question their doctors and the advice they are given. Understanding more about how your hormones work and the reasoning and history behind that medical advice can only benefit all women.

A phenomenal must read for all women.

Dense, factual research is rendered into an enjoyable, readable format taking us through the medicalization of women's issues, the estrogen conspiracy and finally, the evidence based solution.

The history of women's health and hormones is littered with contradictions and unfounded social/cultural bias. Myths or 'explanations' have been created and contorted to order the facts, and suppress rationales that have a sound basis in science.

The authors simplify the evidence, allowing us to understand the roles of estrogen and progesterone. High doses of estrogen are harmful. It causes heart disease, blood clots, stroke and breast cancer. It has not been shown to prevent anything that it has been touted as 'good for'. Progesterone, a co-star, plays an important role in women's balance and whole health, yet has been largely ignored. Progesterone balances out wildly spiking estrogen, serving as a physiological anchor; while providing positive impact on bone density, ....

Case studies are profiled where women are led through invasive procedures that exacerbate the problem yielding nightmarish results. Prior's frequent simple advice: a 2 week trial of progesterone, has freed women of oppressive symptoms, resulting in the cessation of surgeries and prescription refills. I know all about this. Due to Jerilynn Prior's diligence, holistic, thoughtful, and compassionate care. I survived a horrendous perimenopause, and fortunately avoided a hysterectomy and prescriptions that made me feel weaker and more vulnerable.

The book is complete by empowering reader with an appendix devoted to Understanding/ Surviving and Thriving in Perimenopause.

Dr. Prior is a brilliant doctor and brave pioneer in medical research and education. This book is well worth reading for any woman interested in understanding her own health better.