Dare I Say It (by Naomi Watts)
This year, I read a few books on menopause, but I wasn’t particularly inclined to read another when my library hold arrived for Naomi Watts’ “Dare I Say It: Everything I Wish I’d Known About Menopause.” I’d already waited several months for this book, so I decided to give it a try. I’m so glad I did; it’s the best book I’ve read on the subject.
“Dare I Say It” is a candid and empowering book that demystifies the often-taboo journey through perimenopause and menopause. Drawing from her own experiences as a renowned actress, Naomi Watts shares humorous and heartfelt anecdotes alongside insights from friends, doctors, and hormone experts. This book effectively dismantles the stigma surrounding aging. With irreverent humor, up-to-date research, and practical advice on managing symptoms like hot flashes, mood swings, and more, it presents an intimate guide that celebrates midlife as a vibrant and liberating chapter. It encourages women to embrace their power without shame.
I thoroughly enjoyed this book and found it incredibly helpful. It’s a pleasure to learn about menopause from someone who has personally experienced it. I had previously read “The Menopause Manifesto” by Dr. Jen Gunter, but I found it lacking in practical advice due to excessive research and medical jargon. (Naomi references Dr. Gunter in her book.) Naomi’s personal experience motivated her to conduct extensive research and consult with various professionals. She has become an advocate for women’s health and has even started her own business, Stripes Beauty, to assist other women in navigating this new phase of life.
I found each chapter informative, except for the one on fertility. Since I don’t have children and don’t plan to have any, it wasn’t personally relevant to me. Naomi covers the most common aspects of menopause, and I particularly appreciate her discussion of clothing, makeup, diet, exercise, skincare, and brain health. It was surprising to learn that menopause impacts every aspect of a woman’s life. Now, I feel justified in blaming everything on perimenopause or menopause.
I’m grateful for the research and stories Naomi shared about Hormone Replacement Therapy (HRT). She presented new information that sparked some ideas for me to consider. The research Naomi provided throughout the book was easy to understand and digest. Several times, she mentioned The Menopause Society as a resource, and I’ll definitely visit their website when I need specific information.
I’m so glad I took the time to read this book, even though I wasn’t in the mood for more menopause education. I borrowed “Dare I Say It” from my local library using Libby. I love that it was narrated by the author.
As a participant in the Amazon Associates Program, I earn from qualifying purchases linked back to Amazon. Every penny earned allows me to blog about books and keeps this site running.
