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Both of these books are by Maryon Stewart, who has a wealth of experience in the field of women's nutrition. In 1987 Maryon launched the Women's Nutritional Advisory Service, providing help to women of all ages from menarche to menopause. Maryon frequently lectures to both the public and medical profession. The books concentrate on women's health issues being met through easy to follow adjustments to our everyday diet. By adopting this approach we can start to beat some of the undesirable symptoms we associate with our menopause.

The Phyto Factor book starts with a description of phytochemicals. These are essentially plant foods that contain vital ingredients, that help to prevent major diseases and improve the quality of our general health. A detailed A-Z of soya foods is given including a product directory. The recommendations are all scientifically based and they are all very much geared towards a self help approach. The foods talked about, i.e. Soya rich products, are all said to lessen the risk of heart disease. They can also improve our bone density, not to mention keeping skin, hair and nails in good condition. It all sounds so good!

On a sunny Monday morning, I made my way to Queen Charlottes Hospital, to interview Sister Cheryl Rothan. Cheryl works part time as a specialist menopause nurse. The interview gave me an excellent insight, into the work of this valuable specialist role.

What Is A Specialist Menopause Nurse?

A Specialist menopause Nurse is somebody that has a specialist interest in this area and has completed specific training in it. I have specialised in gynaecology originally, after doing my 3 years training. I have worked in several fields of gynaecology prior to my current post specializing in the menopause.

On a windy Wednesday morning, I made my way to the City of London Migraine Clinic, to interview Dr. Anne MacGregor, a Specialist in women's hormones. The interview gave me a greater insight to the important link between migraine and the menopause.

Can you explain what the definition of migraine is, and how is it diagnosed?

There are specific diagnostic criteria for migraine which have been recognized by the international migraine society. In very simple terms migraine is a sick headache, with complete freedom from symptoms between attacks, with migraines lasting anything from part of a day, up to three days.

The Daisy Network is the only nationwide support group for women who have suffered a premature menopause. We are a registered charity.

This year's Open Day marked the 10th anniversary of the Daisy Network, we had a great turnout with over 100 women attending the event, this year held in London. A welcoming and friendly greeting was made to all, and a good atmosphere ensued throughout the day.

The day kicked off with registration, and browsing of the stalls, these included a stand with Marilyn Glenville who as ever had a great selection of books on special Open Day offers, featuring nutrition and natural alternatives to HRT. The Infertility Network also had a very informative stand with a great deal of material to ponder on and take home, on all aspects of fertility matters from egg donation to adoption.

This year our Open day was held at the King's Fund Centre in central London. The morning started off busily, with committee members chatting with delegates and partnering those that had assigned buddies, over a welcome cup of coffee.

The programme kicked off with Susan Our chair extending a warm welcome to everyone. The Daisy committee members then came forward, and spoke a little about themselves, and their designated roles within the network.

The first speaker was Mr .Nick Panay, a consultant Gynaecologist and menopause specialist from Queen Charlotte's and Chelsea hospitals. Nick's specialism is in POF, and he believes a very individual and sensitive approach is required towards treating patients. He is a leading light in the menopause field.

Booklet written by Ruth Burnham 2006, with contributions from Mr. Nick Panay, Consultant Gynaecologist

Purpose of Booklet

This booklet has been written for women who have just undergone major surgery, that will have resulted in a sudden surgical menopause. It is at this time of change and transition that a level of supportive information is greatly needed. This booklet will aim to guide you through the early stages following your surgery.

If you are reading this prior to undergoing surgery, do as much research as possible. Ask your consultant as many questions as you have on your mind, do not be worried to do so! It is important that you fully understand the type of surgical procedure you are going to have done and why.

At the annual British Menopause society conference, I managed to catch up with Nick Panay, who enlightened me on various aspects of POF.

Why do you think that quality of life issues for women with POF are overlooked by many doctors?

The focus in many fields of medicine in the NHS, is largely focused on life or death issues. Gynaecological conditions such as menopause and POF, do not carry as high an impact, as other illnesses such as heart disease, cancer, and life threatening conditions. Further education is required within the medical profession, to give women diagnosed with POF a more specialized and tailored support network.