This handy-sized self-help book packs a powerful punch. It tackles what even today remains, if not a completely taboo subject, one that rarely gets an airing – at least in “mixed” company. The authors expertly adapt cognitive behavioural techniques to an issue many women struggle with – hot flushes and night sweats – in such a way that it is at once an easy read, instructive and practicable.

The 4-week programme is based on the authors’ own research and clinical trials, which demonstrate that this brief intervention is effective in reducing the impact of hot flushes and night sweats in group and self-help formats, both for well women going through the menopause transition as well as for women who are often troubled by these symptoms following treatments for breast cancer. Some of the strategies are not new but are clearly applied, based on credible research evidence. The narrative usefully points to potential differences for those who may be going through menopause gradually, at the more or less expected time, and those for whom these changes arrive abruptly. The techniques also have wider application, for example, how to deal with stress and disturbed sleep, with succinct guidance as to how to put these ideas into practice, one chapter/week at a time and, importantly, how to maintain them.

Throughout, quotes from “real” women help to bring each section alive and there is a useful list of resources, both national and international, at the back along with the authors’ rating scale so that women can check on their progress. The aim is to help women to manage menopausal symptoms and the tone of the book promotes acceptance and normalization of the menopause transition by countering myths and unhelpful beliefs that exacerbate hot flushes and impact negatively on mood and well-being. My slight concern is for those, possibly small in number but nevertheless important women, who may read this book and continue to experience difficulties, although the possibility of further (professional) help is mentioned.

All in all, a timely publication that is useful not only to half the population but also to their friends and families.