Hormones, News
Hormone Repair - Book Recommendations
Uncover the root causes of your digestive distress to help you find lasting relief.
Dr. Misty Story, ND
Two Must-Read Books for Hormonal Harmony at Every Age
Hormones are powerful. They influence everything from our mood and energy levels to our monthly cycles and the significant transition into menopause. Yet, so many of us navigate these changes without a clear roadmap. As a naturopathic doctor at Village Medicine, I believe that understanding your body is the first step toward optimizing your health. That’s why I frequently recommend two essential books that I consider invaluable guides for women at every stage of life.
Whether you’re a teen just beginning your menstrual journey, a woman looking to balance your hormones, or someone entering perimenopause and menopause, these books are for you. They are fantastic resources for both the general public and for doctors seeking to better understand what these life phases are really like.
These two books are both written by the brilliant naturopathic doctor, Dr.Lara Briden, ND
These guides expertly break down the what, why, and how of female hormones. They explain what normal cycles and hormonal transitions look like, what symptoms might signal an imbalance, and what practical steps you can take to help shift your body into a healthier state.

For Your Reproductive Years: Period Repair Manual
This book is a game-changer for anyone with a menstrual cycle, from teens onward. It demystifies period problems and provides clear strategies for issues like PMS, heavy bleeding, and irregular cycles. It empowers you to understand the root cause of your symptoms and work toward naturally balanced cycles.

For Perimenopause and Menopause: Hormone Repair Manual
This is the essential handbook for navigating the transition into menopause. Dr. Briden offers practical advice on managing symptoms like hot flashes, mood shifts, and sleep disturbances. It provides a reassuring and science-backed approach to this significant phase of life, helping you feel your best through the change.
One of the most powerful aspects of these books is how they equip you to talk about your health. They give you the language and confidence to:
- Talk to your doctor: You’ll learn how to describe your symptoms clearly and discuss your concerns effectively, leading to more productive appointments and better care.
- Talk to your partner and family: Hormonal health shouldn’t be a taboo topic. These books help you explain what you’re experiencing, fostering more understanding and support in your closest relationships as you move through different
phases of your cycle and life.
At Village Medicine, we are dedicated to empowering you on your health journey. These books are wonderful tools to complement the personalized care you receive here in our Seattle clinic. Pick one up, and let’s start the conversation
* This post was originally printed in the Village Medicine Seattle’s Wellness Quarterly Magazine, 1Q26 Edition. Read and download the full publication

About The Author
Dr. Misty Story, ND is a Digestive health, SIBO, IBD, IBS, GERD/reflux specialist at Village Medicine Seattle. Her goal is to assist patients in their journey through education, encouragement and continued research as her first Naturopathic Doctor did for her. Learn more about Misty
