Science Salon

When award-winning science writer Amy Alkon was blindsided by her first hot flash, it kicked off a cascade of symptoms—drenching night sweats, insomnia, and a rage she couldn’t explain. But what shocked her more was how little real science her doctor had to offer. In this episode, Alkon shares what she uncovered in her deep dive into the research on menopause and perimenopause—the critical yet often neglected years leading up to menopause when millions of women are misdiagnosed, dismissed, or simply told to “wait it out.” Drawing from her new book Going Menopostal, she explains why so much medical advice is still based on outdated or inadequate evidence, and what women can do about it. Alkon breaks down complex science with clarity, humor, and a healthy dose of skepticism, giving listeners the tools they need to ask better questions, advocate for themselves, and get the care they deserve. Whether you’re in the thick of it or simply want to be prepared, or want to support your loved ones going through menopaus