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Menopause: Questions and answers

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Are there any natural supplements I can take to help with low sex drive? I had a partial hysterectomy 4.5 years ago and in the last few months have started to experience menopausal symptoms, but it’s hard for me to gauge exactly what’s happening when I don’t have periods. The most apparent symptoms I am experiencing is a non-existent sex drive. I have a wonderful partner who has a healthy sex drive and it’s affecting our relationship, although he is being very patient and understanding.

Loss of libido is very common in the menopause and there can be several things contributing to this. As you still have your ovaries you will... Read the full answer 〉

For the last 5 days it has felt as though I have an extra heart beat. This condition comes and goes but has been continuous. I've just turned 50 and this has happened in the past when I went to A&E. I had several scans that revealed that I do suffer from this condition but I wondered if it could be connected to the menopause? I don't really have any other symptoms yet.

This is so common in the menopause! Lowering oestrogen affects mood chemicals making our nervous system more jumpy or reactive, we become more... Read the full answer 〉

I don't get hot flushes but a week before my period I get funny feelings several times a day. I can't describe them, all I can say is I feel very scared and I feel as though I am going to pass out. It feels like I am going into a nightmare. I will be 47 next month. My doctor has said that I am not going through the menopause as I am too young and I'm not having flushes. I have another appointment with a different doctor tomorrow. These feeling are starting to control how I live my life. I hope you can help.

Falling oestrogen just before a period can trigger panic-like attacks such as you are experiencing, this can be quite common as you approach the... Read the full answer 〉

My periods stopped when I was 54 years old, though I had to endure 2 years of scatty, unreliable periods, some of which were extremely heavy and lasted up to a week. After they stopped I was feeling great, there were no real issues, though I was putting on weight which had never been an issue for me before. Then the hot flushes came along, usually at the most inconvenient times. After 2 years I lost confidence, thought I didn't have many friends, stopped socialising and went into my shell. I get confused and I cry at anything. I can't make any decisions and I get stressed very easily. I feel as though I am losing my mind. It was suggested that I go on HRT. Is there an alternative? I don't want to take drugs.

Some women do find that their symptoms get worse well after the end of the menopause; this could be due to a variety of factors such as stress, low... Read the full answer 〉

I missed my first period in February and then thought I had missed March, until Thursday evening last week. I am having extremely bad stomach pains and heavy rushes of blood. I also feel very uncomfortable going out in caase I flood through my clothes. Also, the pain makes me double over and I have to sit down. This has never happened before, I hope you can help. I am 52 years old. I have to be cautious taking pain killers as I have IBS and Diverticular disease and pain killers cause my stomach problems to flare up.

This is quite common on the approach to the menopause but if you are losing a lot of blood and in pain it is important to see your doctor,... Read the full answer 〉

I am 54 years old and I seem to have just about every symptom of the menopaue - very low libido, loss of hair, severe anxiety, panic attacks, groin pain, depression, and a pain in the centre of my chest. I am taking a good multi-vitamin and other supplements but nothing specifically for the menopause. Can you help me?

Have you had all this checked out by your doctor? Low iron, low thyroid, and low vitamin D can all cause very similar symptoms so it would be a good... Read the full answer 〉

Normally my period is very regular, lasting 4-5 days without any problems. My period is now 2 weeks late and I've done a pregnancy test. The result was negative but I do sometimes have unprotected sex with my partner. I will be 48 years old next month and I've had no menopausal symptoms so far. I have been under a lot of stress at work so could this be the start of the chance, or my body being out of sync due to my stress levels? I am going on holiday next week so maybe a week in the sun might help, but this is really playing on my mind. I would appreciate your help

Stress can really affect the hormones so it may well just be a blip. However, you are in the average age range, 45-55, so it may be that you are... Read the full answer 〉

I am 45 years old and I have one ovary - I lost my right one at the age of 15. I am suffering from disabling fatigue now, to the point where it is difficult to function. I've had my hormone levels checked and they are all normal, I am not anaemic either. This month I'm experiencing a lot of pain in my remaining ovary. It is as though my one ovary is really struggling to function now. My periods are more or less regular. Could I be in the Peri-menopausal stage?

It is possible that you may be starting the approach to the menopause, but did the doctor also test you for low thyroid and low vitamin D as both of... Read the full answer 〉

I have been on oestrogen only HRT since having a hysterectomy 10 years ago. I have always felt brilliant and led a full and active life. I can't stay on HRT forever (although I would love to) and so I have very gradually reduced the HRT dosage over the years. I am now down to 25 micrograms and I feel terrible. I ache all over and I am so stiff that I feel 90 years old. I can't even put my socks on without experiencing pain! I've had to give up so much that I am feeling old before my time. My doctor has put me on an exercise programme and I walk loads but I'm getting tired very quickly. I am taking Glucosamine and Omega 3.

Unfortunately, coming off HRT can be really awful and it can take the body a while to rebalance itself. Menopause-like symptoms such as joint pain,... Read the full answer 〉

I'm 48 years old and my periods are a bit irregular. I was due a period at the beginning of January and I didn't have one. I started bleeding 3 weeks ago, very lightly but gradually heavier. Now my blood is brownish but sometimes spotted with red. What could this be? I have cramps sometimes and I feel like I have cystitis as well I also had a Mesh operation on my bladder about 6 months ago.

This is a very common scenario on the approach to the menopause and can last for a while before your periods finally stop. Although your hormones... Read the full answer 〉

I am 43 years old and I have started to get insomnia. I'm also getting really low moods, I'm bursting into tears all the time and I feel like everything is a struggle. I usually cope with most things but I find myself in tears all the time. I am only getting about 5 hours of sleep a night, often waking up as my mind is racing, and I can't just drop back off to sleep again. Is this a sign of the menopause? What do you think I should do? I hate seeing the doctor as they give out happy pills like they are Smarties!

At 43, you are still a little young to be starting the menopause unless other close female relatives started around that age as well. Low iron, low... Read the full answer 〉

I'm 50 years old and I still have periods. I'm actually up at this ungodly hour because my skin is really itchy and it's driving me mad, to the point where I can't sleep! I recently went to the doctors with terrible joint pain and I was tested for rheumatoid arthritis but the results were negative. I went back to the doctors and asked for some help with the menopause. The doctor gave me a questionaire to fill in and the verdict was depression, so I was prescribed anti-depressants for a month. I've finished taking them and I've decided against having another course. Is there a home-kit or something I can do to determine whether or not I'm going through the menopause?

Your doctor can test your hormone levels. Blood tests, however, are not that accurate but may give you a good idea as to what is happening. A saliva... Read the full answer 〉

I'm 49 years old and I'm experiencing bad mood swings and night-sweats. My sleeping patterns are a bit erratic. I also recently woke up feeling as though I am falling and I couldn't walk/ Now I feel as though I can walk but the dizziness is there, on and off. These dizzy spells have been happening for the last 48 hours.

Dizziness is a common menopause symptom, but if it is continuous it is important to get it checked out by your doctor. Falling hormones can affect... Read the full answer 〉

I have managed most apsects of the menopause pretty well so far through diet and exercise. I also discovered that I had a slightly under active thyroid which has now been treated. However, I am still left with unbearable fatigue - I often shut down at work in the afternoons and rarely do anything in the evenings now. I sleep well, so what can I do to get my daily buzz back?

Firstly, check your diet; hormonal changes in the menopause often make you more sensitive to fluctuating blood sugar levels and some women find that... Read the full answer 〉

I am 49 years old and I had the Mirena Coil fitted after the birth of my last child, when I was 36. As I do not have any periods, I cannot use that to gauge if I am going through the menopause. However, I have other symptoms - tiredness, tearfulness, loss of interest in food, low energy, short temper ect. How can I find out if this is definitely a result of the menopause rather than anything else e.g. underactive thyroid?

It is very difficult to tell if you are in the menopause if you have the Mirena Coil as it will mask your own natural hormone levels. However, many... Read the full answer 〉

I am almost 48 years old. I missed a period in January and February so I did a couple of pregnancy tests but both came back negative. I had a period in March which was very light compared to normal. However, since then I have had some blood almost every day. I seem to only have one day a week without any blood, and then it starts again. I feel no more tired than normal but I do suffer from itchy skin at night. Is this normal?

Changing periods are often one of the first signs that you are approaching the menopause and you are in the average age range, 45-55, so it is... Read the full answer 〉

I have endometriosis. The doctor did an ultrasound and said that all looks well. I have had bleeding mid-cycle, though it is very little, and I'm bloating. The doctor thinks that it could be the Peri-menopause but they now want to check my FSH. I'm 41 years old and I'm a bit confused. Is this all normal? Or should I be concerned?

The Peri-menopause can start well before the actual menopause and can trigger all sorts of symptoms such as spotting. I am glad that your doctor is... Read the full answer 〉

I have an ache in my lower tummy and sides. I haven't had a period for a few months now but I am feeling very tired. I'm on a good diet and I walk every day for almost 40 minutes, although I don't feel like walking now as I'm so drowsy. Is this normal? Can you recommend a natural product that would be able to help? I'm currently taking vitamin C, vitamin B complex, Q10, calcium, and Agnus castus.

Firstly, if your periods have stopped for the time being it is best to stop the Agnus castus as it is probably not needed just now. Fatigue is... Read the full answer 〉

I'm 41 years old and after reading over your website, I think I might be at the beginning stages of the menopause. Over the last 4-5 months, my periods have became very heavy, with blood clots appearing within the first two days. Due to the digestive troubles I have to take laxatives quite regularly. I feel very uncomfortable and I'm bloating after I've been on my regular runs, four times a week. I have a dull ache in my pubic area. What tests can confirm whether it is the menopause that is happening? Or, could it be something else?

Your doctor may be able to test your hormone levels and although not always 100% accurate, it may give you an idea what is happening. Do also let... Read the full answer 〉

I have regular panic attacks and dark moods where I can't see anything positive in my life, which is weird because normally I'm such a cheerful person. I've also had a cold and I can't seem to shake it off, I'm still blocked up with an on and off sore throat and itchy ear. Is this normal for the menopause? Does it affect how long it takes to get over viruses?

Falling hormones at this time can affect mood, sometimes quite dramatically, and your mood can also greatly affect your immune system either making... Read the full answer 〉

I've been waking up in sweats ever since last autumn. Last week I was very emotional and since last summer, my joints have been aching terribly, especially my ankles when I get out of bed. Now I've noticed that I'm vaginally dry as my husband complained when we had intercourse. The doctor did test me a year ago but mentioned that I was not going through the menopause. This vaginal dryness is really bad though. How can I know if it's a Peri-menopausal symptom.

Hormone levels can change very quickly so I would go back and ask your doctor to test you again. In the meantime, you may find Devils Claw helpful... Read the full answer 〉

l have been told by gynaecologist that I am going though menopause as my blood test showed level 60. I am 46 years of age. In recent months I have gone through a traumatic time with my husband; I lose my temper quickly, I shout, I cry a lot, and I take things to heart. My diet is not that great. I am a working woman so I sometimes skip breakfast or lunch. Could you please advise me on the best multi-vitamins to take?

Hormonal changes during the menopause stress our body tremendously and our nutritional needs go up considerably. Your body needs good food in order... Read the full answer 〉

I just turned 50 in December. I was ill with depression and anxiety last year and I was put on Fluoxetine, 40 mg per day. I still don't know if it's the medication or the menopause that is causing my hair loss. I notice it more when brushing, styling, or even washing my hair. I have not had my hair cut or trimmed over the last 12 months. Do you think having a good cut would help?

A long bout of anxiety is enough to cause this to happen to your hair. It may seem to you as if the timing doesn't tie up because it didn't... Read the full answer 〉

I am 49 years old and my periods have been regular, lasting 5 days maximum. This month my period was late and I have been bleeding now for 10 days. Sometimes, going on the toilet, there is no blood and I think that maybe it is finished but then 4 hours later there is lots of bright red blood and some small clots. The blood seems to smell. Is this normal?

At the start of the menopause periods often go a bit haywire, sometimes being very unlike what you are used to experiencing. However, just because... Read the full answer 〉

I have been on HRT in various forms for 10 years and I wish to know the next way to wean myself off of it. I started when I was 49 years old following a full hysterictomy and I am currently on patches. I was wondering if it is easier to use tablets to wean off rather than patches. My current patches are 50 strength but are not the type you can cut. With tablets you can be on lowest strength and then start missing days out. I would be interested to know your opinion.

It is very important to come off really slowly and I usually recommend taking about 6 months, slowly decreasing all the time. Unfortunately, coming... Read the full answer 〉

I am 53 years old and I've been on a Mirena Coil for a number of years now. I haven't had a period since I started on the Coil and I can't say that I've felt any other menstrual type symptoms in this time either. I am happy in my life although I have a lot of things to deal with, however, I seem to be getting into a pattern of being quite stressed and I have been drinking rather too much in the past year. It suddenly occurred to me that it could be the menopause that is causing this anxiety. I really have no reason to behave in this way. When my mum went through her menopause, her bevaiour became a bit erratic until she went on HRT.

The problem with having the Mirena coil (which gives you progesterone) or being on HRT (which gives you oestrogen and progesterone) is that it's... Read the full answer 〉

I had my last period when I was 50 years old. I am now 60 years old and I've just had surgery done to my shoulder. I was suffering from vertigo, but it appears to have eased off for now. I have gained 40lbs within the past 6 months, but I don't eat much and I have no taste buds. I've also got restless legs, and I'm getting hot flushes. I can't stay still and I'm constantly grinding my teeth. My question is, am I going through the menopause or could this be happening because I take Hydrocortisone for the pain? I've lost a lot of my hair but it's still thick and my nails grow long and very strong.

If your periods stopped 10 years ago and these symptoms are just recent then they are very unlikely to be due to menopause - you are officially... Read the full answer 〉

I'm 49 years old and I underwent a partial hysterectomy about 4 years ago. Since about 4 months ago, I've started having severe pain in my legs, accompanied by a weak, wobbly feeling. I also have pain in my right shoulder and arm, which was diagnosed as possibly being frozen shoulder. About a month and a half ago, I suddenly started having perspiration at odd hours, and I'm starting to notice that I'm fatigued after completing any small household chores. I am a very active person, working as a teacher and a house-maker. I want to know if this is the menopause that I am experiencing or something else? I don't feel like doing anything and I cannot focus on work, either at home or at school. I'm always feeling low and tired. Please could you give me some advice?

After a hysterectomy, if you have your ovary left you may have the menopause at roughly the age you would have done naturally so it is possible you... Read the full answer 〉

I am going through the menopause and I am on patches, cut in half as nothing is agreeing with me. My question is, what can I do about my hair? It has gone completely unruly and grey hair is starting to overshadow the blonde hair. It's making me very unhappy, and I am already going through mood-swings so this really isn't helping. Please help me.

Has the doctor tested you for low iron or low thyroid? Both of these can appear in the menopause and affect hair growth. If not it may be an idea to... Read the full answer 〉

I'm 45 years old and in the last year or so I have been experiencing irregularity with my periods. Last October I had a heavy flow and the doctor advised me to have a D&C since my endometrum lining was unusually thick, about 17.5 cm. After the D&C I was regular for 3 months and then last month I skipped my period. This month my period has returned but I'm bleeding excessively. What is the matter with me?

Because this has happened not long after your operation, it is very important that you go back and see your doctor as there could be a number of... Read the full answer 〉

I am 54 years old next month and I am having all of the regular symptoms of the menopause, plus some that are not mentioned. I have had a blood test and the doctor has said that my ovaries are 'struggling.' I am still having periods, the longest time in between them is 4 months, but other times I will have 3 in 2 months, lasting up to 9 days. I am now getting very down as I am not sleeping properly. I wake up having weird feelings that last about 5 minutes and then they subside. I have arthritis in my spine, known as spondylitis, and I am in a lot of pain with that too. Can you help me?

Has the doctor tested you for low iron or low thyroid?  Both of these are common in the menopause and can cause similar symptoms. If not it... Read the full answer 〉

I was diagnosed as Peri-menopausal at age 40. I'm 43 now and I haven't had a period for 15 months. Yesterday, after suffering PMT like symptoms for what seemed like ages, I started a period. I am somewhat surprised as I thought after 12 months without them, I wouldn't have any more. Am I still in the Peri phase or can you have periods when you have started the menopause? I'm a bit confused!

Some do say that it is only 1 year but I go with the 2 year rule as it is quite common to get a period after a year or so. The only problem with... Read the full answer 〉

I had my last period six months ago and for the past month or so I have been experiencing aching joints. I exercise every day; a mixture of yoga, aerobics and cardio for about 1.5 hours, 4-5 days a week. With rest there is some relief. Is there any medicine for aching joints? What else can I do to control aching joints?

Some women do find that symptoms suddenly start up out of the blue but if you look hard enough you may find an answer. I always say to look at what... Read the full answer 〉

I am going to be 52 years old in July. My periods have just stopped and I have missed 2 so far. Normally, my periods were always regular. I have no other symptoms apart from being hot during the night, but not sweaty. I have done 2 pregnancy tests and they both came back negative. Is there anything that I could take to help?

The important thing in the menopause is to support the body as much as possible at this time so looking after yourself well is the key. As you are... Read the full answer 〉

I'm 52 years old. I've been to the heart doctor several times and I have gotten the all clear from the heart specialist. However, every now and then I get this frightening feeling in the centre of my chest. It feels as though my heart just stopped or skipped a beat. I have to gasp for air and a feeling of dread comes over me and then it is gone. I'm very heathly, my blood pressure is 110/70 and my heart BPM is 66. I exercise and I eat heathly. Why does this still happen to me? It occurs about once every few weeks. Can I safely say that it's the menopause or should I go back to the doctor? I do have PVC's which I'm told are fine, but stress and caffeine can make them worse, both of which I do have.

Palpitations are very common in the menopause and most women will experience them at some point. I do know from experience just how horrible they... Read the full answer 〉

I'm 38 years old and I'm having a total hysterectomy next Friday due to severe endometriosis (previously had excision via lap 18 months ago). This means I will go into premature menopause. I've been given the option of HRT patches until I'm 50, but I want to explore natural alternatives to any symptoms I'll experience. I am a therapist so I'm very open to natural remedies/herbs/nutrition etc. What do you recommend?

I can understand your wish to use natural remedies where possible, but unfortunately a total hysterectomy is not something that lends itself to... Read the full answer 〉

I'm 53 years old and I'm sure that I have started the menopause, however, I have had a few blood tests which have came back normal. In last year I have gone month and months without having a period and then I got a show. In December, I had a normal period, heavy to start with and then lighter for a few days. Since then I had nothing until a few weeks ago I got a show. Before December, I went 5 months with nothing. I get night-sweats, but I'm taking sage tablets to help with that problem now. Lately I've had palpitations after running and chest pains. I sometimes feel light-headed and unwell though it seems to pass. What is your opinion?

This is a common scenario on the approach to the menopause and it can go on for some time before you periods finally stop for good. You are also in... Read the full answer 〉

I'm 43 years old and, after several blood tests, I've been told that I am going through the menopause. I've recently been started on HRT as the symptoms had become too much to handle. I have not had a period in over a year, yet the last few weeks I have had period pain, pelvic pain, and back pain. It's very debilitating when I have to work every day. I just wondered if you could shed some light on my issues.

Although your periods may have stopped there is still a hormonal cycle for a while; not high enough for a bleed but still high enough to give... Read the full answer 〉

I have been having menopause symptoms since I was about 42 years old. I'm now 44 and I feel like I'm going off my head with all the changes going on in my life. My GP has now referred me to gynocology, which I am very glad about. I hate the way that I am so unhappy about my life. I have tried herbal remedies and some prescribed medications but nothing seems to work. Will this change at some point as it is making my life a misery.

Hormonal changes in the menopause can affect us both physically and emotionally and some women do find it is a time for reflecting on their life. It... Read the full answer 〉

I'm 42 years old and I have Adeonymyosis. For the past few months my periods have been getting more irregular - I used to be every 28 days. My main concern is my low mood, tiredness, difficulty getting back to sleep if woken during the night, and a general feeling of being down. I'm being snappy at my children. My mum and maternal grandmother were both 48 years old when they went through the menopause. Could my symptoms be the start of the menopause? I'd appreciate any advice that you can give me.

Menopause age can be hereditary but not always so. Irregular periods, low mood, and poor sleep can be caused by a number of factors including low... Read the full answer 〉

I am almost 48. I missed a period in January and February. I did a couple of pregnancy tests both negative. I had a period in march which was very light compared to normal. However since then I have had some blood almost every day. I seem to have one day a week with none then start again. I feel no more tired than normal and well other than itchy skin at night. Is this normal?

Changing periods are often one of the first signs that you are approaching the menopause and you are in the average age range, 45-55, so it is... Read the full answer 〉

My doctor wont give me hrt as on the waiting list for hystorectomy, night sweats are driving me mad. I can't remember the last time i had a full nights sleep, I dont' drink coffee, my window is open all weather and I have a fan in the room, but this still does not help me have a full nights sleep? Is there anything I can buy over the counter, there is no point going to the doctors again. I am also on losartan for high blood pressure.

You could try Sage tablets as they are traditionally used for flushes/sweats and I would also suggest a magnesium supplement with your evening meal... Read the full answer 〉

I first started the Peri-menopause when I was 40 years old and now I am 50. My joint pain has been on and off for over a year now. The last few weeks it has been quite severe although today it is not too bad. What is the best supplement to take for joint stiffness and pain? I've tried taking Menopace but it upset my stomach and after 3 weeks I had to stop. Can you help me?

You could try Devils Claw as this is traditionally used for joint pain. Make sure that you are drinking plenty of plain water - tea, coffee, fizzy... Read the full answer 〉

I am 38 years old and I have been told that I am going through the menopause. I have just recently started getting some pain in the joints of my fingers, making it very difficult to grip or fully open my fingers. I also find that when I roll over in my sleep I experience a sharp pain in the muscles in my back which wakes me up. I am unable to roll over without pulling on the mattress to haul myself over. Are theses symptoms likely to be caused by the menopause and how can I alleviate them? I would also like to know if there is anything I can take to stop myself bursting into tears for no apparent reason and at the most inopportune moments.

Joint pain is a common symptom during the menopause and is often caused by falling oestrogen dehydrating the 'protective padding between the... Read the full answer 〉

I have been having hot flushes for nearly 3 years now. I have tried all sorts of remedies - Black Cohosh, Primrose Evening Oil, Serenity Cream - and they seem to work for a little while but then they stop working. Someone suggested sage and I bought some but sadly I could not take them because they were in capsule form and contain gelatine. I am a vegetarian and I will not take gelatine. I have also put on a lot of weight in the last 2 years and I cannot seem to lose it. Do you have any advice for me?

You could try our sage tablets as these do nor contain gelatine. Unfortunately, falling oestrogen can cause a problem with carbohydrate metabolism in... Read the full answer 〉

I am going through the menopause but the HRT tablets are not working. I feel as though I am going crazy. I already have an underactive thyroid and I take 200mg tablets per day. My whole body is exhausted and painful. I feel like I have turned into a different person. My hot flushes are so bad that I am literally turning purple. Please, can you help me?

If you are still taking the HRT it is important to go back to your doctor and let them know it is not helping you and making your symptoms worse.... Read the full answer 〉

I have been taking Elleste Duet for 2 years now, however, I stopped taking them 6 weeks ago on my GP's suggestion. I felt so ill with stress and I was crying all the time. The GP has prescribed me Prozac, which has sorted out the mood problems. I still feel very unwell though; I'm tired, nauseous, and I'm getting hot flushes day and night. Can you help?

Unfortunately coming off HRT, especially if it is done quickly i.e. in less than 6 months, can trigger withdrawal symptoms that can mimic menopausal... Read the full answer 〉

I had my last period 8 months ago and I began experiencing hot flushes around 5 months ago. Please can you advise what I could take to stop these flushes? I am currently taking the anti-depressant Sertraline and I am also taking Loratadine. In September I am looking to start HRT after having discussed this previously with my GP. Please can you help?

You could try Sage Tablets as these are traditionally used for flushes and I would also suggest a good female multi-vitamin supplement as... Read the full answer 〉

I haven't had a cycle for 29 weeks. Within the last 3 weeks I've suffered from cramping, bloating, heartburn, and sore breasts. I feel pregnant but I don't want to disturb the doctor in case I am not. The last time I went they said that I was going through the menopause but they did not conduct any tests. Can you help me?

Even though your periods may have stopped, there is still a hormonal cycle, not high enough to trigger a bleed but still high enough to give PMT-like... Read the full answer 〉

I have been getting severe hot flushes that can last up to 30 minutes and make me feel very sick. These have increased since I was in a bad car accident in December 2013. I have been experiencing Peri-menopausal symptoms for many years and I am 52 years old now. I also have high blood pressure so the doctors won't put me on HRT. Is there anything I can do that may help me sleep better?

Physical stress such as a car accident can weaken the adrenal system in the body, making your symptoms worse. So in this situation it is very... Read the full answer 〉

I often feel hot when others claim it's cold. Now I've started waking at night feeling very hot! Last night it happened three times. Reading the information on the site, I've noticed that I do have a few symptoms of the menopause but I'm only 43 years old and so apparently too young to have started the menopause. Could you please advise me as to what this could be and whether I should visit my GP?

Stress, low iron, low thyroid, and low vitamin D can all cause flushes/sweats so it is a good idea to ask your doctor to test for these just to rule... Read the full answer 〉

I am 52 years old and I am going through the menopause. My skin is very dry and itchy, and there is also a tingling sensation that drives me nuts. My chiropractor says that the tingling comes from my neck. It makes no sense to me. What do I do? I'm also having trouble sleeping and I've noticed some weight gain as well. Please help me.

Itchy skin is very common during the menopause and you may find a liver support such as the herb Milk Thistle and nettle tea helpful for this. It is... Read the full answer 〉

I've gone over 2 years without having a period. My womb was cleaned out due to having very heavy periods whilst I was going through the menopause. I have been symptom free for over a year now but suddenly my symptoms, like night-sweats and hot flushes, are back with a vengeance. I exercise 3 times a week and I eat fairly healthy. I am 52 years old and I started the change at 45. What advice can you give me?

After all this time without periods menopause-like symptoms may be an indication of adrenal stress rather than hormonal.  In this situation, it... Read the full answer 〉

I am a 47 year old woman. in good health - I practice yoga, I am a strict vegetarian, and I am a normal weight. I still have regular periods, every 25-28 days now. I think I am approaching the menopause, or going through it. My symptoms are as follows; I have extremely achy hip joints that sting between ovulation and the end of my period; I am experiencing some facial skin irritation that fluctuates with my cycle, and I have extreme fatigue prior to ovulation. I have tried several homeopathic remedies and various complimentary therapies. Although they help a little, making things bearable, I would really like to find something that stops the pain and discomfort, and the skin irritation under my nose. It feels like eczema - I have never had exczema in my life until now. Any advice?

The fluctuation of symptoms may be following dips in oestrogen at each cycle so you may find taking Menopause Support helpful as this is... Read the full answer 〉

I appeared to stop my periods at least 3 years ago. During this 3 year period, I had the odd show but nothing to write home about. Just before Christmas, I had a full period which lasted 7 days and was similar to the normal periods that I had years ago. I am 49 years old and in the past week I have noticed that I'm getting niggling pains in my lower body, on my right hand side. I can't be pregnant? Or, is there a possiblity?

You are usually considered through the menopause after not having had any periods for 2 years so it is very unlikely to get pregnant after... Read the full answer 〉

I had a hysterectomy 30 years ago. I am now 69 years old and I still get hot flushes. I have not had a good night of sleep since they started 12 years ago. I had been on HRT but I had to come off due to having a mini stroke. I have recently had a blood test and my hormone levels are all OK. The GP has prescribed Clonidine and after reading about the side effects, I am reluctant to take it. I also have bad circulation and the information leaflet said to be careful if you have that condition. I am at a loss as what to do.

Menopause-like symptoms after all this time may be an indication of adrenal stress rather than hormonal.  In this situation it is very... Read the full answer 〉

I had my last son when I was 43 years old and I haven't had a period since. I will be 60 years old in November. I've always been so active but over the last 12 months I've felt down and my body just feels like it's giving up. It's not like me at all. I can't take HRT as I've suffered from anxiety in the past. Is there anything that I can take as an alternative? I''ve lost all my sex drive too. I'm usually such an active person. Please can you advise me?

Feeling down and losing libido are symptoms of low oestrogen levels, but it is strange that you should be finding this now, after 15+ years of no... Read the full answer 〉

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