“Why This Course, Why Now”
In this opening module, you’ll meet me, Dr. Sarah Berg, your guide through this journey. I’ll share why I created Menopause, Explained and why so many women come to this stage of life searching for answers. Together, we’ll set the stage for the course, covering what you can expect from each module and how this program will give you clarity, confidence, and a sense of control during the menopause transition.

“Building the Foundation”
This module gives you the background knowledge and vocabulary you need to feel confident as you move through the rest of the course. We’ll define perimenopause, menopause, and postmenopause, explore the timeline of the transition, and clarify common misconceptions. No one is expected to walk into menopause already knowing this — and after this section, you’ll have the language and framework to understand what’s happening in your body.

“The Expected and the Unexpected”
In this module, we’ll go beyond the hot flashes and night sweats everyone talks about to cover the full spectrum of menopause symptoms. From brain fog to joint pain, sleep disruption to skin changes, you’ll learn why estrogen affects so many systems in the body. By understanding both the “usual suspects” and the lesser-known changes, you’ll feel more in control of your body and less blindsided by what you’re experiencing.

“Cutting Through the Noise”
Hormone therapy is one of the most talked-about — and misunderstood — topics in menopause care. In this module, we’ll tackle the myths, misconceptions, and fear-mongering head-on. You’ll learn what hormone therapy really is, who it’s for, and what the evidence says about safety and benefits. By the end, you’ll feel confident knowing whether you might be a good candidate, and you’ll have the language to understand the different options your physician may offer you.

“Beyond Hormones”
Not everyone is a candidate for hormone therapy, and not everyone wants it — but that doesn’t mean you’re out of options. In this module, we’ll explore the wide range of non-hormonal treatments available, from prescription medications to lifestyle shifts, mind-body techniques, and complementary approaches. You’ll learn what’s backed by science, what’s worth trying, and how these strategies can work alone or alongside hormone therapy to help you feel better.

“Protecting Your Most Vital Organ”
Menopause doesn’t just affect your body — it also impacts your brain. In this module, we’ll explore how hormonal shifts influence memory, focus, and even long-term brain health. You’ll learn what current research is uncovering, why brain fog is so common, and the steps you can take now to support your cognitive health during midlife and beyond. By understanding the science, you’ll feel reassured that these changes are real, not imagined, and empowered with ways to protect your brain.

“Caring for the Organ That Cares for You”
Cardiovascular disease is the number one killer of women — and the risk rises sharply during and after menopause. In this module, we’ll break down how the loss of estrogen impacts your heart and blood vessels, what part hormone therapy may play, and the lifestyle changes that make the biggest difference. You’ll walk away knowing why heart health matters so much in midlife and exactly how to protect yours for the decades ahead

“Strength You Can Count On”
Menopause accelerates bone loss, making osteoporosis and fractures a serious concern for women in midlife. In this module, you’ll learn how estrogen protects your bones, what happens when that protection decreases, and which tests can help you understand your bone health. We’ll walk through how to interpret those results and focus on the lifestyle habits — like exercise, calcium, and vitamin D — that make the biggest impact. You’ll leave knowing exactly how to take action now to keep your bones strong for the future.

“Intimacy, Confidence, and Comfort”
Menopause doesn’t just change hormones — it can also change your sex life and urinary health. In this module, we’ll talk openly about vaginal dryness, pain with sex, lower libido, and urinary symptoms, all of which are more common than you’ve been led to believe. You’ll learn why these changes happen, what options exist to address them, and why you should never feel embarrassed to bring them up. This is about reclaiming intimacy, comfort, and confidence in your body.

“Your Mind Matters Too”
The menopause transition isn’t just physical — it can deeply affect your mood, resilience, and sense of self. In this module, we’ll explore why anxiety, irritability, and depression often rise during midlife, and how brain chemistry shifts play a role. You’ll learn what the research shows about therapies, lifestyle strategies, and support systems that make a real difference. Most importantly, you’ll be reminded that struggling during this time is not a weakness — and you are never alone.

 "When Menopause Comes Early or Suddenly”
Not all menopause follows the typical timeline. In this module, we’ll focus on women who enter menopause early, whether through natural causes, surgery, or cancer treatment. We’ll explore how these scenarios differ, what unique challenges they bring, and why early intervention matters. You’ll gain clarity on the risks to bone, brain, and heart health when menopause comes before its time — and learn supportive strategies to protect your long-term wellbeing.

“Fuel and Movement for Midlife”
What you eat and how you move during menopause can make a powerful difference in how you feel today — and in your long-term health. In this module, we’ll cut through fad diets and exercise myths to focus on what actually works: balanced nutrition, strength training, weight-bearing movement, and the habits that support bone, brain, and heart health. You’ll walk away with practical strategies to fuel your body, protect your strength, and feel your best in midlife and beyond.

“Knowledge Is Power”
In this final module, we’ll bring everything together with a recap of the key takeaways from each section of the course. You’ll be reminded how much ground you’ve covered — from understanding your symptoms to protecting your long-term health — and how these tools can empower you well beyond menopause. We’ll end with encouragement to keep advocating for yourself, using what you’ve learned to guide conversations with your healthcare providers and choices in your daily life. Most importantly, you’ll leave with the confidence that you are informed, capable, and never alone in this journey.