My period was very regular until November 2013. It is now going to be three months since my last period. I find difficulty in breathing and just recovered from itchy skin which lasted for two weeks, now having a feeling of numbness on both the hands and legs. I am having hot flushes at night, find it difficult to sleep and have mood swings. I exercise regularly. I drink at least 8 glasses of plain water. Can you please advice?

Missing periods are one of the first signs of the approach to the menopause and your other symptoms are common ones.

However, any problems with breathing, especially if it is getting worse, should be checked out by your doctor.

In the meantime you may find a fermented soya tablet helpful, it does take about 4-6 weeks to kick in but it is traditionally used to gently raise and balance oestrogen which, in turn should lessen symptoms.

Nutritional needs go up tremendously at this time so it is a good idea to take a good female multivit as well.