Is This Normal?: Judgment Free Straight Talk about Women's Health and Hormones Paperback – April 16, 2024

Where was this book when I was growing up? I could have used it in high school. Not only did it answer all the questions I have, it also answered the questions I didn’t know I had. The information is far from basic, without being overly clinical/sterile. It is a wonder none of this is taught in basic health classes. I appreciate the author’s charts, tables, checklists, quizzes, and all the visual aids she provided to make this easy to understand and relevant to me, rather than just a bunch of interesting facts. And yes, it has a ton of interesting facts. But what I found most helpful was the guidance on my hormones. I appreciate it isn’t just a medication or supplement only book and instead, the author gives many easily accessible food and lifestyle tools to balance hormones. I also think the libido information is a must know by everyone. I found myself saying yes out loud numerous times because it felt like she was speaking just to me. I’ll be telling everyone about this book and will definitely be re-reading sections of it, maybe even out loud to my partner.

This is one of those great books that break the taboo and talk freely about the female body, and it is a fun read to boost! I found the 2nd chapter particularly unique as it deep dives into a woman’s cycle and hormones. The cool quizzes allow you to pinpoint your own issues or imbalances, which the next chapter then gives very specific instructions on how to fix them by walking you through the lifestyle, nutrition and supplement (and dosage) adjustments you need to make. So whether you experience acne, high stress, migraines, perimenopause, etc., it gives you specific ways to address that particular issue, which I found very useful… And I also loved the recipes I tried so far. Can't wait to try the rest! Definitely recommend the book!

I pre-ordered Dr. Brighten’s book and it was delivered on the day of my hysteroscopy and laparoscopy surgery when I found out I had endometriosis, a fibroid, adhesions, and uterine polyps. Everything was removed. This is the book that I’ve always wanted and needed. Dr. Jolene Brighten is very thorough in everything and offers suggestions as well. The book has checklists or quizzes to help you determine what is going on and then you can bring it to your doctor. I love the 28 day plan as well. Thank you so much for writing this book, Dr. Brighten. You need to order this book.

I read Dr. Brightens beyond the pill from the library and thought I might buy it later- it was good! When this book came out I had to buy it, thinking it's more applicable to me since I'm not on the pill. It has so much detail to help you figure out what's wrong and how to fix it, including when you need a doctor. There are answers to so many questions! she explains with no judgment no matter which way you lean on things. And the way she writes is so entertaining (not boring or too dense) to read. You wouldn't expect to LOL from a health book but I did! I'm excited to try the recipes too!

This book lives up to its promise in providing non-judgmental and medically accurate information. Unlike most of the information you’ll find out there, the author presents unbiased, helpful, and scientifically backed answers to almost any question you could have. There’s easily hundreds of studies cited.The author is board certified, a sex counselor, and a nutrition scientist. I believe it’s this trifecta of education that makes the book accessible to just about anyone with solutions that actually work to help create balanced hormones or more pleasure, as the author claims. I did find some information lacking, which I’ll share, but overall I would still recommend it.Pros:Charts that provide exact guidance on what to do about hormone symptoms.Supplement dosages are clearly explained and she cites the research on many of them.Lots of quizzes for various conditions so you can check your own symptoms and get help.Very thorough discussion of libido that includes hormones (many popular books haven’t discussed hormones this in depth).Images to help you digest complex information.Journal exercises during the program that give you a clear picture of what is normal for you and how to make improvements.Loads of information on orgasm, including the orgasm gap. I was equal parts blushing and fascinated by this chapter.Cons:There is very little information about hormone replacement therapy. I would have liked to see a protocol on ideal medication dosing.There aren't any recipes in the book, although the author does provide a digital cookbook that does include 4 weeks of recipes and guidance on how to eat for your cycle. I’ve never seen this done before and imagine it is because if they included the recipes the book would be far too big to hold. This may not be a con overall, but it is something I’m not used to.Recommendation: I would recommend this and have told many of my friends about it already. I could see this being part of a college curriculum or a course about women’s health. And at the same time, it’s a really easy and enjoyable read. The author has struck a balance between engaging writing and the scientific facts, which is not an easy feat.

Dr. Jolene Brighten is a leading hormone expert who passionately advocates for women to have the knowledge and tools to feel their best. While many doctors dismiss women’s concerns as normal, Dr. Brighten provides insight on the root cause of the most common (and sometimes least talked about) hormone issues women face. In this book she offers comprehensive guidance on how to restore a healthy cycle, optimize your hormones, and get the pleasure you deserve. If you are struggling with your libido, hormones or periods, or simply have questions about what's normal, this book is for you! I was fortunate to receive an advance copy of this book and am delighted to endorse and recommend it!

This is a treasure trove to all the ladies who never got the sex Ed, female body talk, or confidence to share what’s happening with your lady specific parts. I have never felt more empowered knowing the most I ever have about my female body.