All About Menopause

Jeann, 6/8/2008 5:26:12 PM
Just wondering if you've thought about incontinence products for those of us who used to use Kotex period products?

Dawn, 6/9/2008 1:43:17 PM
I use a light on at times, but need alittle more as I have leakage at times.

pamela, 6/11/2008 1:27:28 PM
tired all the time legs are herting all the time

Deja Vu, 6/12/2008 8:27:32 AM
Jeanne, try Poise, they work really well. I tried the Kotex overnight, but it wasn't enough for incontinence. I use the Super when I go out and it makes me feel more secure. I'd love to see a Kotex product for incontinence.

Lena, 6/12/2008 3:14:44 PM
i am severly hot ALL the time, I can't sleep. I am SLEEPY all of the time(dark circles under the eyes,that I hate)don't enjoy LIFE as much as I use too. cycle is at times SUPER heavy. but Kotex brand pads & tampons HELP!.

Mary Ann, 6/16/2008 6:45:42 PM
Scared of menopause. My mom started going through her changes at 38 and at 76 is still experiencing hot flashes!!
Though my period ended abruptly at 44 but it came back.

carmen, 6/17/2008 6:04:41 AM
soy milk is the best for hot flashes i take a glass a day to start and then a glass a week they have vanilla,very vanilla,chocalate very very helpful

girl wonder, 6/17/2008 2:04:02 PM
hotflashes,periods off and on all the month but its light light pink fluids off and on dizziness i just want it to stop complety

Cathy, 6/18/2008 4:05:31 PM
I'm almost 48 and have had a period for almost 2 weeks,is this normal.I never experienced this before.I had a complete physical in Nov.2007.

Melody Briones, 6/20/2008 7:29:23 AM
I have hot flashes, chills,and my nerves are bothering me,I had a hysterectomy when I was about 35 yrs old and I'm 47 now

Lisa, 6/20/2008 9:04:36 AM
Had my last period Dec.31st. Did not have another until April. Missed May now having severe mood swings. Had what I thoought was a panic attack just to find out I had started my period for june. If there is anybody that can help it would greatly be appreciated!

Theresa, 6/21/2008 9:09:05 AM
Hate to say, all sounds familar. I tried to do it on my own, then a month ago, (after 4 years, so far) I thought I threw in the towel. My doc gave me replacement hormones. BUT, I bled like a 20 year old. They gave me a 5 day burst of birth control to stop the bleeding, but as soon as I stopped them, I started again. I am so sick of periods and the whole ordeal. I still have a sex drive, but am always on my period. (and can't wear tampons). Can periods be stopped without birth control or surgery?

robin, 6/24/2008 7:21:19 AM
why cant a pad be made that has adhesive down the entire pad to keep it in place

norma, 6/26/2008 9:43:38 AM
I'll be 52 next month and for the first time in June my period showed up twice. Is this a sign of menopause?

donna, 6/26/2008 11:03:13 AM
am 44yrs old I was wondering that am in pre menapause.My last period was in mid April.I took 4 pre/test and am not
but spot a lot get the pains/cramps/like am going to get it and i dont.What should i do?i talked to doctor yet.I was hoping

cyndie, 6/26/2008 2:46:28 PM
im having bad meapouse panic attacks body ach dizzyness and bladder infection with the lords help and walking and exercie helps we will all get though this jesus says if im with you who could be against you

Jeanette , 6/26/2008 6:35:46 PM
i hate the hot f;ash and when i get them i feel sick when i get a hot flash. im 53 and i have a period every now and then . when i have a hot flash i have to turn my fan and my A.C on and my family that i have the house where it feels nice for me and they have to wear something to keep them warm. i want to know how long will i go through this. i cant deal with this anymore .

kris, 6/27/2008 5:09:22 AM
I am 50 and my periods have always been very heavy and lasted 10 days, this month I have spotted for s 2 weeks and have back aches and adonormal pains,should I see a dr.

levon, 6/28/2008 6:50:23 PM
i'm 53 and my periods i hope hve ceased,have not seen one since march of this year,but notice a difference in my body,all of the sudden changes,very glad when there's an end.

AJ, 7/1/2008 9:59:10 AM
the hot flasehs, mood swings, and heavy periods,,,what was mother nature thinking!

Vicki, 7/1/2008 2:56:57 PM
I'm 43 and for the last year I've had a "floating" period - meaning that I start two days earlier each month (or thereabouts). My periods have gone from 13 days of heavy flow and passing huge clots down to four days of manageable flow, manageable cramps. I now, however, have PMS, which I've never had, and I've been having periods since the age of 13. I can't wear tampons, and I'm having hot flashes and mood swings like crazy. My mother started menopause at 43 and ended at 50. Does this mean I have a good chance of being on that road already????

Melanie, 7/2/2008 5:32:04 PM
I'm almost 52 & in perimenopause. Last year at a visit with my gynecologist, I complained of hot flashes, PMS, & mood swings. She said hormone therapy was not an option because I have a history of breast cancer but that antidepressants are frequently used for these symtoms (I was already on antidepressants). This year I had an increase in my dosage and noticed a significant improvement in all those symtoms. I've also noticed that caffeine makes my hot flashes much worse. I get my periods about every other month (the heaviness varies) with occasional spotting in between. Hope this helps.

Cynthia, 7/5/2008 3:43:53 PM
No one talks about very swollen and sore to the touch breasts. Is this a symptom of something else or has anyone else experienced this as part of menopause?

Janet, 7/10/2008 11:21:18 AM
I'm almost 48. My periods have always been every 3 weeks and very heavy. Now they are every 5-6 weeks and getting lighter. Terrible PMS, mood swings, bloating, cramps, throbbing legs, hot flashes, night sweats. I can't stand it anymore, I just wish it would stop already. I have had enough!

Cathy, 7/13/2008 4:37:29 AM
I am 55 and my doctor told me I was not yet in menopause. I asked for a blood test to see where my estrogene levels were. When the blood test came back my doctor appologized as my score was 47. A high score is 35. I bascally did not have any hormones left. I could barely walk, by back hurts so bad, hot flashes, what a mess. So, there is the womens insatudite of pharmancy in Arizona. They make a cream that you can rub on or I am taking a capsule under my tougue everyday. I have been on it for 9 days now and I already feel the differance. My back and legs still ache but my headache went away that I had for 36 straight days, and the hot flashes went away. My doctor herself is on the same Rx that I am on and she believes that no one needs to have to suffer like I did. Here all this time I was in menopause but told just because I only missed 9 periods, they say you must miss 12 periods to be in full menopause, WRONG. My email is: cjray2@msn.com. I have been throught it all and I am sure there is still more to come but at least my emotions are better, no more hot flashes, only my back and legs hurt. I am going to have a bone density test done on 7/14/08 as my blood work also come up that I had a very high arthritis score. Oh no, here we go, something else to have to deal with. Maybe that is why my back hurts so much. email me. I have been through it, as I said, My score was only the 2nd woman my doctor had ever seen having such low hormones in such a short time. Sorry for the spelling, I am in a hurry.

Laura, 7/13/2008 3:49:08 PM
I'm 47, I had a partial hysterectomey in 1997 in the past 2 years I've started menopause. I feel like I'm going nuts with the mood swings, hot flashes, trouble sleeping. My breast get so tender you can barely touch them but I have fibrocystic cysts in my breast that's why they hurt. I wanted to let you all know that I take Natural HRT and it really helps I ordered it online with it came a paper saying the prescription doctors prescribe called premarin is made of horse urine. I refuse to take prescriptions they mess you up more than doctors let on. You really need to try the Natural Herbal HRT it really helps.

margaret, 7/15/2008 1:40:42 PM
i went on this site to find out about this mess well i preyed for my periods to stop 2monts ago and it slowed down this month witch is good but like i just read a few letters ago its light pink one day none the next and dark red the next. i just want it to come and go.this is my first month and i cant perdict it alreadycaint i get a shot or something to stop it altogether?

Andrea, 7/16/2008 2:00:43 PM
I turn 49 next month and am experiencing my first "weird" period - spotting the week before and now terribly heavy flow like I haven't seen in years. I also had quite a bit of cramping during the spotting phase. I'm so worried/upset I'm ready to see a doctor right now but am waiting for the flow to subside. If it doesn't, I'm still going to get an appt.anyway. Good luck to all you ladies out there. We'll get through this.

barb, 7/17/2008 2:41:58 PM
I am 43. I am having mood swings, hair loss and light periods.i cry at the drop of a hat and have tested several times for pregnancy and had a blood test- all negative. Could I be experiencing menopause symtoms?

Lisa, 7/18/2008 10:53:09 AM
I am 42 and have not had a period since January. I can't sleep at night, emotional, nipples sore and nausea. I have also taken a lot of pregnancy test and all were negative. Doctor said that I was to young and it is probably stress. I am over it!

Evelyn, 7/18/2008 5:53:30 PM
I am 47. I have been having alot of hot flashes, mood swings for the past six months. This is terrible, I went to the Dr. and I had some laboratories done and sure enough, I have Menopause. I was suggested to start the hormones by my Dr. and I am not sure if I should take them. I want to
say to all you women out there with menopause to stay positive, deal with it the best that you can and enjoy yourself as much as you can to avoid depression, because these changes really causes depression.

Marsha, 7/19/2008 7:06:10 AM
I'm 49 and on the third day of a very heavy period. I have gone through 18 overnight pads so far, am scared to sit down, stand up, lay down, cross my legs or cough. I'm feeling weak from the heavy flow, wish they made a super-duper overnight pad the size of a beach towel and am off in search of iron supplements, shortly. This menopause thing ain't no joke.

At this moment, I'm extremely ticked with Eve. An apple certainly wasn't worth all THIS.

Darlene, 7/19/2008 12:55:36 PM
I am 56, and, too, have the same beginning scenerio
as Cathy dated 7/13/08.

started with same symptoms.
and had the "tests" etc. which,
of course, all came back normal....

However, I did notice some slight speech slurring problems (especially in the evenings)

Did anyone have this ?

Darlene

lynne, 7/21/2008 2:31:18 PM
thank you for having a place to turn to i thought i was the only one with the heavy bleeding and irregular periods, it is a comfort thanks .

Sherry, 7/21/2008 3:55:53 PM
I am 51 and had mild symptoms of menopause(peri-menopause) about 15 years ago, migraine headaches, aches and pains, etc. My chiropractor prescribed Pro-Gest, a natural body cream that helped me tremendously! I used it for about 10 years and now I think I am finally going through the real thing. My periods stopped almost a year ago. I started having just all kinds of medical problems such as high cholestral and blood pressure increases , I even had a mild stress stroke at age 49. Well the drs. were baffled, put me through all kinds of tests for my heart and found not too much really except that my cholestral was elevated. They wanted to put me on medication of course and I refused, so now I exercise every day, take all different natural supplements(fish oils, flax oils etc.), I use soy milk and soy products on a regular basis and I have very little menopausal symptoms such as hot flashes, night sweats or any other things I hear women talk about. I don't know if they are yet to come or if I have beat them. But one huge problem I am having and can't seem to correct is my low sex drive and inability to have orgasms! I have talked to my gynecologist and she seems not able or willing to help. I am desparate, anyone have any suggestions. We are even talking about having my husband checked to make sure it is not his problem. I have been recently treated for bladder and yeast infections but those seem to have been cleared up. Anyone else ever experienced this?

Candy, 7/22/2008 6:44:13 AM
I am 49 and still have heavy periods. last night I had the worst cramps I have ever had . If I didnt know any better I would of thought I was in labor. Should I still be getting bad cramps at my age?

Theresa, 7/22/2008 1:47:24 PM
Thank you to all of you wonderful woman
that shared their concerns about this time in their lives. Some were even funny to me...about the beach towel, sometimes I wish they would make a pad that big, because I have really heavy periods myself. I am 51 ...and I really don't think I can do one more. I get up all night long to change sometimes I think I'll drown. I can't go anywhere on my heavy days. My periods seem to be regular...I did have 2 in one month, it totally flip me out. I don't want 1 let alone 2. Oh well thanks for letting me vent. It's good to know I'm not alone....Thanks!!!

Carol, 7/22/2008 7:16:57 PM
At age 42, I suddenly stopped having periods for one full year. Then at 43, I started again, but things were very different. My periods were irregular and heavier than before, and my body odor changed. My periods became very heavy and I had very severe cramping. I also experienced headaches, dizziness, back aches and nausea. Now at 47, my irregular periods have me wearing a panti-liner daily to protect myself, since I never know when I will start.

joyce, 7/23/2008 1:24:24 PM
where do i began, thank you all for sharing. I'll be 47 in Sept, i thought i was going crazy, my friend now sleeps in the other room, he's leaving, I have all the stuff you all talked about. I wear 2 pads and a tampon, no need to talk about nite. I never want to leave home. for me the worst part about it all is the body odor, i take a show but always feel like i need a shower. Why is it called MENOPAUSE and not WOMAN YOUR LIFE IS ON PAUSE. your talking about a woman that from age 13 know when, and how her monthly was going to go. until about 6 months ago. How is it that when my 14yr old son died my husband stayed next to me, and now MENOPAUSE comes into my life he's in the other room. email me please joycelynjefferson@yahoo.com i have an idea about some pads too

Margaret2, 7/24/2008 7:42:27 PM
Glad to read so many of your comments!
They are my problems too!! The heavy periods are driving me crazy! I'm 46 and been having hot flashes and night sweats for about two years or so. Now my periods are irregular (although i have not missed a month yet) they come three days early or five days late! I never know when to expect it anymore! And it is so heavy! I thought there was some thing wrong with me. Thank God for allyour comments. Now I know I'm not the only one. I just wish there was a better way at night to survive the flood!!
I am up all night sometimes, just because it is so heavy. Any suggestions?

Zen'i, 7/25/2008 12:48:58 PM
I''m a 48 year old woman, and after reading, i have become truly enlighten by what I h ave read, could I possibly be going thru this menopause stage. Sleepless nights this is the first time I've had a period 8 days apart and it scares me to think about it, but from what I have read reading the questions and answers, I feel I maybe. It has not been confirmed w/OBGYN as of yet. I just need to know. Thank's so very much for the information. I have also been told by my OBGYN that I have fibroids and I thought that might be the reason for the 8 day difference.

Roxanne, 7/25/2008 1:01:26 PM
So happy to hear that I am not the only woman in the world going through this fun reading all these coments. I am 47 and 13 days late for my monthly friend,night sweats etc. Nothing bad YET! I guess just deal with it as it comes. I mean it cant be worse then labor,Right! Grandma always said cheer up the worst is yet to come. Thanks granny haha

Debbie, 7/26/2008 9:25:33 AM
I am 49 and have been experiencing severe hot flashes, mood swings, severe panic attacks and depression. I first started with not having my period for 8 months.Then two days before I was leaving for Florida for vacation with my family I got my period. It figures! Then I had started getting my period again very light for the next 3 months and then missed two periods and stoped again and didn't have it for six months. Once again... I was leaving for Florida and suprise.....I got my period ! This time, it was a regular to heavy period. That was in May and I have not had my period since. Every time when my my period stops the hot flashes start again. This time, I am getting them at night and during the day. I never had them during the day before. I have leg pain ,restless leg syndrome at the same time as I am having a hot flash. The hot flashes at night wakes me up out of a dead sleep and then I cannot get back to sleep. I am having so many symptoms and I am having a very difficult time with it. I have been working out at the gym 7 days a week doing 1 hour of cardio and weight training. I think exercise helps. I don't know what to do about the panic attacks and depression. I don't like to take medication. If anyone has any suggestion with natural or herbal foods to help me through this awful time, it would be greatly appreciated! I feel like I am falling apart at the seams and I haven't reached 50 yet! January I was rushed to the hospital and found out I had Atrial Fibulation and I am taking medication for that and now I have to go for a breast biobsy and I am just a bundle of nerves and really believe it has every thing to do with medipause. I have been so healthy my whole life and it is making me crazy that I am having such a difficult time handling MEDIPAUSE. I feel lik my life sometimes is spinning out of control and I don't know what to do or how to handle it. I am so gald that I went out on this web site and read all the comments as it has helped me feel a little better knowing that I am not CRAZY and it is all Menapause that is causing these emotions. My Mother, Grandmother and my Aunt all completed medipuase when they were 48. They never had any symptoms like me. They just stopped getting there period and that was it. I thought I was going to be like them because I was 48 when I went without my period for 8 months. I guess hereditary is not always true. I will keep my chin up and hope and pray that I will finish medipause soon!! Men have it so easy!

Marie, 7/26/2008 3:15:44 PM
I have been going through menopause for 19 years. The hots flashes are killing me. I tried hormone therapy, but I started bleeding twice and had to have 2 D&C's. I was told that I will have this for the rest of my life. Is this true?

manta, 7/26/2008 3:30:45 PM
im 45 AND I HVE BEEN EXPERIENCED THE WORST BEGINING TO A LONG PROCESS OF LIFE THAT I HAVE DREADED AS MY AGE KEEPS ON GOING UP, THE WAY I FEEL IM SO ALONE AND SO UGLY I HAVE NO DESIRE TO THE THINGS THAT I ONCE FOUND JOY IN DOING , ALWAYS FEELING ONE DAY THAT MY MENOPAUSE WILL BE FOUND OUT BY THE ENTIRE WORLD BY A ACCIDENT THAT WILL CATCH ME OFF GUARD EVEN WHE N I WHERE 2 PADS TAMPONS AND ALWAYS WEARING CLOTHES THAT HAVE POCKETS TO CONCEAL THAT IM ALWAYS CARRY MY SECRETS . IM MISERABLE THAT I WORRY WHEN I SIT ON MY COUCH THE HEAVY PERIODS FOR DAYS AND DAYS IS DRIVING ME CRAZY THE OVERSIZEDCLOTS THAT LOOK LIKE LIVER ARE MAKING ME ILL MY STOMACH CANT TAKE THE EMBARRASEMENT THAT I FEEL EVEN WHEN NO ONE KNOWS WHAT IM THINKING ABOUT WHEN I TRY TO HAVE A NICE TIME WITH MY FRIENDS ALWAYS FEELING THAT UNCOMFORTABLE FEELING THAT YOU DONT KNOW IF YOU SHOULD STAND OR NOT BECAUSE I HAVE NO MORE SENSE OF FEELING OF BEING SECURE WITH MY SELF I TRY TO BE ME BUT BEING ME IS NOT WHO I AM NOW MENOPAUSE HAS DESTROYED WHO I AM I HOPE TO GET ME BACK ONE DAY...................................

Patti, 7/26/2008 9:34:19 PM
For all you ladies who think maybe or maybe not on going through menapause, go see a NATURAL MEDICINE DOCTOR~ they are the best! No drugs, just natural supplements and they can handle the symptoms~ When I saw mine for the first time, I had been bleeding for 4 months straight~ within 4 days, I stopped bleeding and was back on schedule~ What a relief!

Susan, 7/28/2008 10:44:34 AM
Life is insane sometimes. You have to keep coping even when you don't know what to expect. You are not alone.

Thank you all for sharing. Other than the standard symptoms missed periods, hot flashes, night sweats and vaginal dryness there is no information of the gambit of symptoms women are discussing here - heavier periods, longer lasting periods, cramps, leg pains, etc.

I like Cynthia 7/5/08 am experiencing very swollen and sore to the touch breasts. In June I had two periods and I have not had one yet for July - my breast are very swollen and sore.

Fortunately I saw the "Little House on the Prairie" episode and the movie “Real Women Have Curves” in both of them the menopausal women thought they were pregnant. And because women who know menopause exists wouldn’t just think a missed period meant they were pregnant, I have to think those shows are about a type of menopausal symptom that makes these women think pregnancy. I’m surgically sterile for 17 years. My menopausal symptoms include tender breasts, sugar cravings, some fatigue and no period.

Kathy, 7/28/2008 10:48:23 AM
Don't think I'm crazy, but my husband and I were hoping for one more child. Unfortunately, I haven't had a cycle since January and have hot flashes daily. Does anyone know if fertility drugs work if a woman is menopausal?

Thanks

Bonnie, 7/28/2008 5:12:04 PM
Hi for the first time in my life I actually had to leave work because I just started gushing and felt sick and dizzy...got home and feel like an idiot because I had to leave work because I GOT MY PERIOD...Men do have it easier...I felt like I just had a kid all the clots and heavy bleeding and NO ONE TOLD ME ABOUT THE BATHROOM PARADE...Lord I spend more time in the bathroom than a teenage boy..ahaha...hot flashes are okay so far just freeze my family out...Don't need no one but my computer and a big bag of chocolate and coffee...coffee...coffee...just kidding {not really} tired of all the emotions and the bs...I say we just have a place to go to cover our heads and cry, scream and yell if we want...

Amanda, 7/29/2008 8:00:20 AM
Good website and info.

Linda, 7/30/2008 11:02:28 PM
I'm 50 and am going through the hot flashes (my head starts out getting REALLY hot) and just feeling like I need a shower all the time. I began skipping periods last year after having regular ones that gradually became heavier as time went by- the clots, the gushing, the sore boobs, the surfboard saddles (pads) day and night. I actually MISS having my regular periods- the familiarity and the knowing when and what to expect. The cramps actually weren't that bad. I miss being able to feel better after it stopped. I don't miss the PMS though. I don't sleep much, even though I don't feel the need to, but I do get tired throughout the day. My legs hurt a lot (no swelling) and if I sit for a minute or two I get up and I can hardly walk. I have begun to try to exercise more- walking- and this helps somewhat. I feel like a slug, don't want to do anything but channel surf and eat, and the husband had better not look at me wrong. I have light cramps often but end up with a "ghost period". I have to carry protection everywhere I go and I dare not be caught without it, because the next cramp just might be it.
I just want to have one great big period and clean it all out. And never have another one and feel great!! Just wish this summer would end and get rid of these 90-100 degree days because they aren't helping. Anybody got a house far up north for sale?? I won't mind Santa as a next door neighbor. And ladies, you'll never meet a man who can bleed that much and live to tell about it.

shaughn, 8/1/2008 9:20:37 AM
Just turned 45, had 2 periods in Feb 08, 1 in March 1 in april and 2 in May. Nothing in June or July. Hot flashes almost everyday all though they are not as intense as they were. Intense orgasms, however lately not much interest. It has not been that bad a worth it to me if the periods are gone forever.

Betty, 8/1/2008 12:32:10 PM
I am 54,at around 45. I started with real hot flashes, restless nights and at times shortness of breath, and weakness. I haven't had a period since 2006, but during the last week of July ,I started seeing some spotting. I don't know if this is normal, so I am making another appointment with the doctor.

Marsha, 8/2/2008 7:42:20 AM
Bonnie, I completely empathize and sympathize with you for having to leave work. It's terrible! You never know what will happen when you stand up..or cough.

Tell you something else that's awful (vanity coming into play here) is the facial hair. Does anyone know if HRT will at least slow it down? I live in fear of waking one morning with a full beard.

Cathy, 8/2/2008 12:43:27 PM
I have mood swings very badly, get hot and cold flashes. when i do get to go to sleep i dont sleep very well. I am always so very tired. My husband dont know what to with me sometimes. Heck i just dont know what to do with myself

Jane, 8/4/2008 11:55:54 AM
I had one of my ovaries removed when I was in my 20s. My periods have been pretty normal. Within the last 3-5 years, Im 33 now, my periods will once in a while be late. At times, I get hot at night and will be a little sweaty. In the last month my bra size went from a D to a DD and I had even been losing weight and exercising. I just wonder if I could be going thru early menopause. My sex drive in fine.

Kelly, 8/5/2008 12:28:27 PM
I'm 39 and on Depo Provera, that's how much I dont like my period. I've been on it for about 5 years and just started spotting the past 2 days and getting the hot flashes, which I'm always very very cold and have a heater on at work. I also have Juvenile Diabetes so they say that I would go through menopause 10 year 3 months earlier then a woman without diabetes. I've booked a doctors appt. to see but am not looking forward to the answer, I'm not ready for this at all, I think the stress will kill me, I'm going to request a histerectomy right away! But I've heard my Mom and Aunts talking about Primrose Oil for the hot flashes and apparently it really works but you have to give it 1 week or 2 for your body to get accustom to it. You start with one in the morning and one at night then after about a month you only take one in the morning to maintain it, but get the good stuff not the cheap stuff. Apparently it works for most but not all. Good luck to us all. And thanks for your input it's really helped me and it has also scared the crap out of me! LOL we'll see. Thanks ladies

Carol, 8/6/2008 6:00:50 AM
I have never felt this way before in my life. I feel like I have lost control. I am 53. I had no periods for six months and experienced hot flashes, but that was about it. I have since then had two periods (heavy), depression, migraines, both increase and decrease in sex drive, back pain, cramping, tender breasts, but most bothersome - I have lost confidence and feel so lonely. My husband is a few years younger than me, and has no sympathy at all. He is a self centered ass. I am wondering if he's always been this way or if it's just my frame of mind right now. We've been married for 26 years. I can not sleep. That's why I am up and sitting at the computer. It has helped give me some piece of mind reading all the other emails. I guess I'm not alone. I thought I was loosing my mind. Really.

KAREN8/7/08 2:10 am, 8/7/2008 1:08:48 PM
My husband thinks I,m going crazy, moody, hot flashes, crying constantly not to mention the weight gain. I just wish it would go away and my life could continue on a relatively normal path.

candy, 8/8/2008 9:40:37 AM
I will be 39 on monday and let me tell ya I have problems with my monthly. When I start I feel like I am going into labor. And it used to last just 4 days , sometimes every 2 weeks. But now it is up to 8 days on and 5 days off. I hate it. I have the headaches the back aches, tired all the time, legs aches. But my dr told me that everything is normal. I am sorry but this is not normal. I don't see him going through it. I just wish they would do something about it. Any answers would be helpful. He hasn't checked my levels to see if anything is going on. any answers just email me @ cmay32@ aol.com

Tricia, 8/8/2008 9:58:53 AM
I am definitely in menopause...have all the symptoms listed here...the one that bothers me the most is my loss of libido..I have tried vaginal suppositories to add moisture but intercourse is very painful...does anyone have a suggestion or remedy?

trulley, 8/10/2008 9:48:37 AM
I am a 46 year old that had uturine cancer and had to have a total hysterecomy. Every since I have had my surgury 2 years ago i have had a light discharge and been tired all the time my arm pit hurts now all the time.

Wendy, 8/10/2008 5:31:58 PM
I am 54 years old and have not had a period since march 2007. I have been experiencing lots of nausea over the past couple of months. Anyone having the same problem and what can help?

marie, 8/11/2008 7:11:11 AM
Anyone get terrible itchyness going through all of this, especially right after taking a shower?

Debbie, 8/11/2008 12:00:31 PM
How do you know when you no longer have to be concerned with pregnancy? I had heard that you have to not have a period for a year before you can be sure of not getting pregnant. Is there any medical information out there to support this?

Claudia, 8/12/2008 8:29:04 AM
Hi I am 53 and I think I am going to menopause. I have very heavy bleeding and passing clots. Went to the dr. today and ran same test to see if I was and wants me to hold off on taking pills to stop this horrible peorid, he wants mother nature to take care of it. Just don't know how long I can stand this bleeding. I don not have hot flashes. I have been taking Primerose Oil for yrs. and I think that is what is helping me with the hot flashes. I started taking the Primerose Oil yrs., ago for soreness of my breast and it has really helped. so all of you who have hot flashes and soreness of the breast try it I think it wil help you can buy it at Wal-Mart. It is all natural. Good Luck. This time of life really sucks, but I guess it could be worse.

Renee , 8/13/2008 8:03:44 AM
When I lay down at night I get very dizzy as if I have been on an amusment park ride.
I wonder if this is normal ? Anyone had this problem ? I am 41 and have symptoms but have not been to my OB-GYN.
TO MARIE............who posted on 8-11-08
I itch terrible after a hot shower............my back itches me to death.
This is a wonderful web site.

maribel, 8/13/2008 10:42:57 AM
i'm 53 and i know i'm going through with menoapause problems and symptoms.every symptoms i got is alright with me in which i can handle but the panic attack is the one that makes me feel like crazy because if i have a nigthmare and wake up thats the time it will occur like after going to the bathroom and start going to bed then my heart start pounding so fast that i feel like going to pass out, then after a few minutes i feel hot and then cold that my body will tremble.. what i do is try not to think and scared about it so i will listen to music and ignore it till i get back to normal and it worked for me..i'm not really in to medications as long as i can handle it and of course with god's on my side everything will be fine..

Bonnie 57, 8/15/2008 10:31:28 AM
So happy I found this site. I have experienced heavy periods and very heavy cloting for too many years to say, I too have stopped my bleeding just six months ago, terrible mood swings, VERRY TENDER breasts, I have lost all desire for sex and am married to a younger man as well. Although he tries to understand that I don't feel like having sex,( vaginal dryness) he dose sometimes make me feel guilty, as if I don't feel worthless enough. I HATE the way I feel, we have only been married 8 years and 8 years ago he could not keep up with me the sex department, ...SOMEONE PLEASE tell me that some of the desire comes back, I FEEL VERY UGLY THAT I CANNOT FUFILL my husbands desires for me. He tells me several times a day that I am beautiful, sexy and gourgoues, he has done this every day for the past 8 years. i just wish I could come into agreement with him.

Stephanie, 8/16/2008 11:13:58 AM
I am 42 years old as of June of 2007 (now August 2008) I have gone to my doctor four times and have gone through many test, the scope, blood, urine ect...I even went to see another doctor when my doctor was away on maternity leave. Same responce. Premenopause----My signs started where I thought I might have a urnary tract infection, bad cramps (burning where I would cramp) even after my period , sore muscles I went from always haveing normal periods which would last 4 days at the most now I am having period last a week with cloting.
My doctor told me to try soy isoflavones and I have been drinking soy milk. It helps. Also I was told to knock out the coffee and caffine and exercise. I was offered estrogen cream and I am affraid to use it. Any suggestions please email me stephaniemomof3@verizon.net.

stacy, 8/19/2008 11:44:31 AM
Since May I never had my period again and have been going through life changing introspective feelings. I sweat 24 hours a day, have the chills, and my joints ache for the first time in my life. I feel old and ugly all of a sudden ! my vision is effected and my hair is shedding like a dog ! I am losing weight and my sex drive is really high ! But the one good thing is I have been extreamly perceptive on all levels and my intuition is always right these days as if Im clairvoyant. I have dumped alot of friends that I felt have always used me and feel a deeper stronger love for my husband who has been very understanding given he has to sleep with the AC and a fan on every night ! Maybe this is a wonderful life change that is just uncomfortable for a while? Because I do feel like a diffrent person because of it.

Karlene, 8/20/2008 11:43:31 AM
I am 48, I had hysterectomy two and half years ago. For the past week, it feels like my bladder is full all the time and I have literally use the bathroom every hour. is this a part of menopause?

Hope, 8/22/2008 10:24:07 PM
I am 48 , and I did experience a few heavy periods prior to my period just ending, I havent had a period for about 6 months, I was happy to read all the comments and issues voiced here. I thought I WAS LOSING IT, I think the hardest part is the cramping with ghost period, and the breast tenderness, and yes I was happy to see some else say they had pain under there arm pits. I was wondering if any of you have experienced the cramping constantly, not real bad but just there all the time? I cant wait for this to end, but it could be worse, at least we have each other to vent and compare notes with... be blessed

Linda, 8/24/2008 11:22:37 AM
To Stacy, 8/19/2008:

I have had that same intuition for the past year. I didn't dump anybody, but the hubby had better behave. He was raised in an old fashioned way and I am standing up to him like I never have before. The clairvoyant thing is right on with me also. Seems I can think a lot clearer than I used to and have now graduated from door mat to someone who believes in herself. I also get the 24 hour sweats (no chills), the shedding, the joint aches and the periods are gone . I haven't had the weight loss and I don't want/need the sex drive. Maybe that is a plus for this time in my life- that I see things/people more clearly. It's usually everyone else's fault with me these days, and it's always their problem. I feel bolder and am enjoying it.

patricia, 8/24/2008 1:09:28 PM
hello Ladies,this is the beginning of what I call a horror story that Icontinue to experience for over thw past 10-15 years of my life.Alot.Ihad my preiod all month long you see Iwas diagnosed with stage 3 Engometriosis/Pelvic pain.anyway Iam 50 years old. and Iwent thru all of the lab work to see if Iam in what stage of menopause.anyway all of my blood work up came back very low this past June.afer allmost 16 nonths my preiod came back yesterday to my surprise.Iwas in the bathroom and saw the bllod Icouldnt believe it! I am having so much cramping it isnt funny.Iam so very Pissed off becouse of what Ithought was the end of a chapter in my life,feels like right now my periodcome back to haunt me at my age,Im thinking what is up with my period? dont know the answer to that right about now.My question is to all women who are stil having there period/or going thru the change of menopause,are we still suppose to embrace this long journey thru the beginning to the the and? so sorry for using the term Pissed off! please excuse my language,its the bad cramps that im having to deal with all over again.Ithought thishapter wall done for me,and i would never see my period again! thankyou for reading my blog/comments.my God bless everyone of you who are strugglin thru this!

Angie, 8/24/2008 10:32:49 PM
I am 46 and have been going through some menopausal symptoms. One answer to everyones problems is to be put on a very low dose birth control pill, I prefer Alesse 28. It helps me sleep and keeps me from feeling all hormonal and panicky at times. Your periods are regular, you can even delay your period for a week or so for vacations by starting the next pack of pills. I also have bad fibroids but do not bleed hardly at all on these pills. Get some low dose BC pills and save yourself all of the headache of menopause. Menopause gone. Good Luck Girls! Angie

sandra, 8/25/2008 1:00:22 PM
i can't stop laughing at some of these comments and its really not funny but my god, im just starting . my tubes were tied at 35 and im about to turn 46 and the erratical periods started when i had my tubes tied but nothing like this where its come a week early and then followed by another period and big sore boobs. i have lots of older sisters so they are all laughing at me cause ..change is coming.. my boyfriend is getting the hot flashes right now..im just getting lots of periods, big boobs and back pain! they say men go through menopause also. I SURE DO HOPE SO.

Laurie, 8/31/2008 11:15:15 AM
Im 47 years old.. stopped having a cycle last feb. 7 months later.. I started having pain in my hip area.. and back pains, the next day..I started spotting.. whats up with this? I thought I was done! :( Is this comman? HELP!

Therese, 8/31/2008 2:33:06 PM
wow, definetly a challenge for all of us out there, I am 42 and have been having pre-menopause symptoms specially not being able to sleep at night leg pains, anxiety hardly have a sex life anymore very moody driving my husband crazy, feeling that I am dealing with this alone because he thinks this all is in our heads, yeah right like we like to go trough this, start in diapers then pads and later again in diaper. well hope this gets better.

deborah p., 9/3/2008 8:47:06 PM
I am 48 yrs old, the mother of 3(two of them daughters) and a n RN for over 20yrs.
I have been having a lot of the symptoms described and i must say that the worst has got to be these HOT FLASHES...oh my!!! I wake up drenched...sheets,pillow case ,nightie...entire bed!!! I also don't like the "mystery periods" either. the unpredictability drives me NUTS!!!!...UGH! I left an abusive marriage 5 yrs ago and have been dating for the past 4 yrs. SOmetimes it puts quite a damper on sex, but for those whose partners are not squeemish i suggest using the "Menstral cups" found in drug stores.Makes things "neater" if you are comfortable having sex during your flow.

ALso the natural holistic approaches are also helpful..Primrose oil,soy milk, exercise all do wonders.Also tea with Valerian (my favorite is "SleepyTime with Valerian) really help with restless nights.
As for the woman who mentioned facial droop, slurred speech...this is NOT normal. and sounds like an "mini stroke " aka as a TIA (Transient Ischemic attack) which is a serious medical condition....I recommend that any woman with these symptoms notify her doctor ASAP!!!
As for the mood swings,PMS and "just plain old monthly crazies" I agree that some of the antidepressants, especially the SSRI's like Paxil be considered. surprizingly this drug DOES help with hot flashes.

Oh well..that's my two cents worth..hope it helps.
I am getting used to my changing biology...got no choice..besides,i got a moody pre-teen who gets PMS like clockwork...if my son ever left us BOTH alone on a bad day...might get UGLY ...hahaha!!!
Can you say "Pass the Soy milk..and where's the Midol"? three times fast?...

Karen, 9/19/2008 4:00:53 PM
Manta.
Don't feel alone with your pre-menopause symptoms. I went though the same thing. I finally decided enough is enough. In May I had a complete hysterectomy and I am sooo glad I don't have to deal with those heavy heavy periods!! I feel so much better. I am currently taking hormones and haven't had any symptoms since my surgery. Good Luck

Betty, 9/24/2008 3:20:03 AM
Wow, thank goodness for all of these comments. I'm not so scared now. I'm 48.

I started having 2 week periods pretty heavy. Was a little concerned. Went to the doctor and she told me, yup sounds like the menopause.

Other symptoms like everyone else, glad I'm normal. haaaaaaaa haaaaaaaa

Thank you all!!

Christina, 9/24/2008 9:16:29 PM
I'm 46 and my period is 12 days overdue-I have always been as regular as clockwork before, with normal flow.
I'm definitely not pregnant but the menopause test I have done is negative.
Like so many other ladies here I'm experiencing all the symptoms of PMS- incredibly sore, itchy tender breasts, bloating and weight gain around the stomach, stomach cramps, fatigue and irratibility, as well as hair loss and swollen, sore gums.

It's horrible-continuous PMS that never goes away is very hard to deal with, especially combined with 2 moody, demanding teenage sons!!
The way I feel, I would warmly welcome my periods like an old friend if they returned-at least they would offer relief from this awful, heavy bloated feeling!

Does anyone have any suggestions for relieving this bloating and especially my continuously achy, sore breasts?
Thanks so much.

Linda , 10/11/2008 1:44:09 PM
I am 52yrs.old .My period are so heavy that i to wear a diaper and about 4or5 pads ,several pads ,a couple of bladder pads..All these pads have be heavy flow & over nights pads . When I lay down i lay on a puppy training pad. I about a product on the radio. called For Women Only! This product really helped me. My periods are lighter &doesn't last as long.Check the health food stores. or call 1 800 798- 4372 for information

cindy, 10/22/2008 12:16:11 AM
I was injured in the army almost 30 years ago with right arm abnormal pain Reflex Sympathetic disorder. www.RSD.org . after 5 years of pain I developed TMJ.org

both organizations have been doing research and political encouragement of female studies for medical doctors and dentists and chronic pain in general. while attending as a general afflicted person I learned a lot about the research studies showing the relationship that female hormones and estrogen rich receptor cites have in relation to how much pain a person is in.
No it's not all in your head but is permanently recorded in head.

In years past most research did not include females. Only recently are the results coming out with the major differences in everything. TMJ org this past summer had their international symposium with the national institutes of health concentrating on female problems such as volvuldynia, fibromyalgia, ms, etc

after 5 more years I was hospitalized for major depression with psychotic break for 3 months. If I was a guy It would have been labled PTSD At that point I was put on antipsychotic med. which eliminated my period, for most my adult life. this past spring in pursueing a breast reduction 40h I had tests done for prolactin. elevated 100x and an pituitary MRI showing a microadenoma. changed resperidone meds to seroquel prolactin normal. watch tumor.
hormone test show menopause I've had a few "tropical moments" but only lasting maybe a minute several times a day. Boobs have deflated to f. since july;
sag 8 in almost to waist and because of the heft all these years cervical arthritis and low back pain making surgery medically necessary

I cant help but think that the med and chronic pain put a tumor on my brain.

With the very dibilitating pain I was in vs the 20 years of relief. I'd do it again. I didn[t have a life before meds..Medication sucks with all the side effects .constipation, cholesterol, foggy head, memory, congestion, time spent at doctors weight gain, elevated sugar, liver enzymes. Did love not the period and expense. both ways it is very difficult on family and friends. support groups help. also the disability from va and social security even though it was a battle of 26 years to get.back pay max 2 years.

My daughter only knowiing me in pain , has many pain issues also. Her life has been very rough through my 2 divorces directly related to my pain/ she has fallen through so many medical loopholes and not been able to get medical care or even medicaid for herself or her daughter. school assistance not much better. I do have the senator's email newsletter where we can ask for help for her kidney stone er visit .from may

Diane, 10/31/2008 6:34:46 AM
To Robin-Always long panty liners are completey lined with an adhesive to keep them in place. It is the only one I find comfortable for that reason.

DEE, 11/3/2008 7:34:55 AM
HI EVERYONE THANKS FOR ALL YOUR COMMENTS . I CAN TAKE A DEEP BREATH NOW I DON'T THINK I'M GOING TO DIE SOON.I'LL BE SO GLAD TO LOOSE MY FRIEND.HA

Colette, 11/7/2008 6:32:59 AM
Thanks, for all the input on here. I'm 41 and haven't missed a period but, my period sure has changed. It's totally bizarre no rhyme or reason. Shows up when it wants, stays as long as it wants and leaves when it wants. Kinda like a bad in-law. ha ha
I also have the horrible cramps and I sometimes suspect a baby will pop up because it feels like labor.
I started taking evening primrose oil and fish oil and some other supplements and it seems to be helping.
I also feel so anxious. Things that normally wouldn't bother me turn me into a nervous wreck. argh!
Well, at least we are able to vent, which really helps.
Maybe we can all start an internet support group. If anyone is interested, email me: finallyfree0705@yahoo.com
Oh! And, thanks Kotex for the free sample!

Sabina, 11/9/2008 8:04:35 AM
Hello...I'm 48 and for the .past 2 years I would have the symtoms of having monthly periods but without the bleeding, once in awhile I would spot...Three days ago I woke up with bad cramps, got out of bed and yes....gush! I'm still bleeding pretty heavy, dizzy, just feeling wierd. Is this a sign of premenopause?

Jeanenne, 11/9/2008 12:48:13 PM
I just turned 51 a couple of months ago. I had a hysterectomy 5 years ago (kept my ovaries). About a year ago I started experiencing night sweats. They are still with me but they now have company. I get leg, feet & toe cramps all the time. I have a hard time getting to sleep and staying asleep. Mood swings are a big problem now too. I just recently went back to work in the corporate world and I am having a hard time dealing with it. Don't understand because I have worked out of the home all my life, except for the past 4 years when I was self-employed. I feel depressed quite a bit and get stressed out over minor things. Dealing with life on life's terms just seems to be harder lately. My question is....Is most of this menopause related? I can't relate it to anything else. I don't have insurance yet so going to the doctor is not an option right now. Anyone have any suggestions as to what might help relieve some of this stuff. Any help is greatly appreciated.

Linda, 11/9/2008 7:33:36 PM
Collette, I am 51 now and I remember the anxious feeling I had at that age. I guessed it was teenagers in the house at that time, and living beside the in-laws didn't help. I don't know if what I had was actually menopause related or not. I didn't actually feel bad at that time in my life, but it didn't take much to set me off. I was on eggs over everything. People I would normally feel most comfortable around irritated me more than usual. I had no patience for things at all and when somebody spoke, I would wish they would hurry up and finish saying what they were going to say... things like that. I didn't like to wait for anybody or anything! As for the periods then, they were still regular but heavier with labor cramps. At the age I am now it has gone from anxiety to not being too concerned, such as being able to tune folks/ things out to the point they don't get under my skin like they used to. I had taken Estroven and then Remifen from Walmart and they both gave me cramps and a backache all the time so I stopped that. I hope things ease up for you in the near future- hang in there!

shelly, 11/12/2008 9:02:02 AM
I am 48 and for three years my periods started getting closer together from 29 days to 26 days and heavier but only lasting about 4 days. I have had hot flashes which I handled fine for the last three years as well. I have not had a period since 10/3/08, the first I have missed in 20 years. At 41 days and two negative pregnancy tests I am relatively certain that I am indeed in perimenopause! I am glad as I have been getting a period since I was 9 years old and I am after almost 40 years of periods happy to know that soon I will be rid of that curse! I do have two beautiful daughters, but am looking forward to the freedom of not having to worry about having a bloody accident somewhere which is something every woman worries about. I am enjoying my life and looking forward to more fun in the future!

Healani, 11/17/2008 8:16:42 AM
Thank you to everyone for all your postings it really helps me to know that I am not alone, I can't even discribe how terrible I feel. The depression is really getting the best of me along with all the other symptoms. I guess all I can do is hang in there the best I can. Continue to support one another, you don't know how much your words are helping others. God Bless you all.

Roberta, 11/19/2008 9:55:04 AM
I've had b/c three years ago and was prescribed tamoxflin. I have, (it seems) 9,000 hot flashes per day and leg/back pain that's awful. So afraid to stop taking the tamoxflin because my doctor said when you have hot flashes, the medication working. I am currently taking several types of vitiman & prescribed pain pills. I also have thyroids problems. (controlled with meds.) I've also found that walking helps the leg/back pain a lot. I want to thank all of you for your comments. I feel so much better now. Thought I was almost dead.

Sissie, 11/26/2008 10:35:17 AM
Before I had my partail hysterectomey in 2006 I had hotflashes and I'm still having them. Not a day that goes by that I dont have a touch of vertigo I 'm sick to my stomach headaches also .Bladder heavey all the time I thought I was the only one having these problems. You think I'm going through menopause? My Dr say I'm too young to be going through this at 40. Thanks very much for this website Need more help and advice while going through this Like how long does this last? Email somebody Please. Sissie-c@hotmail.com

joella, 11/27/2008 9:56:39 AM
i am 35 years old and in manopause. and scared. the anxiety is so bad and panicattacks. the depressions are just horrible. i worry all the time about everytihing so much that sometimes feel like i am losing my mind and will end up in a rubber room. i am on birth control that only helps with the hot flashes and night sweats but nothing else. i cry a lot wish i fetl normal again. i am on ativan of the anxiety. but can't stop thinking about what i am going through it's forever on mine mind so much that i no longer sleep. will i ever feel normal again. i have going through this as of May 4 of 2007 well thats when i was diagnosed with menopause but the symptoms before that. whats weird is that i just had my son on Jan. 23 2007. dose anyone feel and worry about this like i do? feel like theyare going crazy and what can help me with this. my poor babies they are just 7 years and 22 mouths old. please help. husband no help at all!! they say that menopause makes things from your past if you were abused as a child come back strong and also your fears and phobias. just want to know when this will end so tired of it all already.

Renee, 11/29/2008 10:22:42 AM
Joella, I am 51 yrs old and I know exactly how you feel, I come on this web site a lot just to be reminded that I am not the only person who is going through this. I have found that excercise and walking around the house does help. I finally get to see my Dr. about this on Dec 7. I have found that when the hot flashes begin, I can expect the panic attacks, or anxiety, some times talking to someone helps, but even then if they haven't experienced this yet they really don't understand. My sister who is a couple years older than me says I should just get over it, she should be very thankful to God that she is one of the few who dosen't have to go through this. Just hang in there, my grandmother used to say "this too will pass", the Bible says there is a time and season for every thing. I gues this is our time and season. God Bless you all.

Renee, 12/10/2008 10:39:21 AM
To Joella, who posted on 11/27.
I finally saw my Dr. on monday, and he says I am in menopause and sugested that I try Remifemin, it has blackcohosh & soy in it, he also sugested that I take calcium pills, centrum (or any multi vitamin), and vitamin c, I also picked up some fish oil pills. He also sugested that I excersise, and start concetrating more time on myself. It's still early, but I'm meditating on positive thoughts, and keeping a positive attitude. Last night I even had a good nights sleep. Stay positive and never give up. God Bless you.

Debi, 12/11/2008 6:30:06 AM
Joella, I am 40 yrs old and know exactly how you feel. I have had every feeling you have listed and then some. I recently found out that I am in Post-Menopause. Thought I was just starting. Wish I would of been tested sooner as this explains why I felt like I was going crazy at 35. I was the same age. The moodyness gets better. I feel happier now than I have in a really long time. But I do still have panic and anxiety at times. I have horrible hot flashes and some lower back and body aches. And as Renee says unless they have gone thru it, they don't understand. It does help if you talk to friends and family and let them know and inform the of what you are going thru. This will help them understand as well. Take care and God Bless you all.

KAREN, 12/11/2008 6:34:51 AM
After reading all of these comments and suggestions, I feel that it isn't just me. There are alot of crazy women out there that have the same symtoms, some more severe than mine, The hot flashes, night sweats, mood swings(which is the first to rear it ugly head in my case), back aches. The funniest part to all this is that I did not even think about menopause. My boyfriend, whom is 15 years younger, is the one who said "Oh it is only menopause, you are not going crazy."

Lora, 12/14/2008 7:22:16 AM
I started having hot flashes at 46. At 47 the cramping, headaches, and moodiness came on like a hurricane. I tried the rub on creme. It did not help. I finally did internet research, because I was concerned about the heavy, constant flow. It is not unusual, neither are headaches, nor craziness.

There are a lot of natural suppliments out there, and many of the better Health Food stores have people who really know their herbs, know drug interaction, and can show you some natural relief.

Yams, soy, licorice, mint, omega oil are all good for a changing body, many of the health suppliments have varying portions of these in them.

Happy Sweating.

Trudy, 12/16/2008 11:19:07 PM
Thanks to all the ladies for sharing their thoughts and advice. I know I am in peri-menopause because my doctor told me so. He didn't seem concerned, but I don't know what to think. I just turned 39, and my periods haven't been regular since I was a teenager. Ten years ago, I had to go on the pill because my period didn't stop for 6 months. That was fun. I developed blood clots after gall bladder surgery and was taken off of the pill. I still wasn't having regular periods, but they only lasted for a few days when I did menstruate. Now, I am getting some nasty periods. I have been bleeding for 2 months straight, and it is starting to get to me. Are there any options beside the pill or other hormones for regulating cycles? Help!

Marie--I, too, get super-itchy skin that coincides with my unusual cycles. Bath oil helps a lot for me. I put it on after I shower but before I towel off. Hope it helps.

Cornelia, 12/31/2008 8:08:31 AM
What a wonderful site!!!! I love the sister group.Is this why women leave there husband at this time in there life? I feel so good about me at times and then there is times I just want to move into a one room shed and sleep all day. I quess this is just the beginning of a new phase in our lives. Thanks again for sharing your stories.

Linda, 1/1/2009 5:57:03 PM
Hey, all, I have written on here before and I was thinking I was in the clear so far as periods are concerned. It has been 8 months since my last period. I have had about two episodes of just one little teeny tiny spot (with no warning) in the last 8 months and those "ghost period" cramps have ceased. I was not having any more hot flashes or soreness either. My energy level is up thanks to exercising more than I used to. I was assuming I was going along with menopause okay. Well, to make a long story longer, guess what came around to ring in the new year with me??? A very heavy period!!! I'm like, where have you been all this time?? I don't know if I have heard of this or not. Everyone else in my family/friends/aquaintance network has either had a hysterectomy or very irregular periods, and I was the only regular one. Outside this site I have no one to get advice from on what to expect. Now I wonder if it will happen again next month, am I going regular again, or will this menopause trip start over from the beginning. I was actually beginning to enjoy myself!! I had no warning at all. No cramps, no bloating no weird appetite or anything. It has been going strong for two days now and there are still no cramps. I guess it missed me. I really don't know what to think other than to expect the unexpected for another year or so. Just because it's over doesn't mean it's over. Those Kotex overnights are helpful right now. Just thought I would share this surprise with you all. I'm 51 and hoping it will stop soon! Happy new year to all!

Denise, 1/5/2009 10:17:41 PM
Just turned 50 and have been perimenoposal for 10 years. As the years and first symptoms appeared as the usual late periods, heavy periods one month with cramps, lite periods with heavy craminp, you name it , I have had all the combinations. Now that I am 50 I had myself re-tested and I am around 28 so I still have a ways to go. I guess 35 is the magic number? Now, for the second month in a row, I have itching. I am thinking I may be allergic to the tampons? Has anyone ever heard of this or is allergic ? I am wearing pads which I absolutely hate to no end!! It grosses me out. Let me know if anyone has heard of this and how they treated it . thanks

Tonya 2/7/09, 2/7/2009 3:48:47 PM
I keep gettting my period and it wont stop! I am flowing so hard that i use 2 pads. i am only 37. I dont know what is goin on with me. I was told that this is my pre menopause? I wish I knew.....yes i am also moody and very weak......

Linda, 2/14/2009 10:32:33 PM
Hello again! Remember when I wrote on New year's Day that my period had returned after 8 months?? Well, I have had two very regular ones- just as normal and heavy as they were in the past- but a little closer together. What happened to menopause?? I am tired of this and I wish it would stop. As for now I really don't know what to expect anymore (except another period n the near future...). Anyone else ever been through this- for it to leave for so long only to come back normal?

LISA LAVERNE, 2/15/2009 5:50:19 PM
HELLO I'M ALMOST 39 YEARS OF AGE AND HAVE A LOVELY HUSBAND AND 2 CHILDREN AGES 7 AND 2. I DON'T WHETHER I'M GOING THROUGH MENAPAUSE EARLY, BUT I FEEL SO UPSET, EMOTIONAL, AND LIKE SOMEONE ELSE HAS TAKEN CONTROL OVER ME, MY BUST ARE REALLY SORE (LIKE IN PREGNANCY) AND I ALSO HAVE ENDEMETOROSIS, I KEEP GOING HOT AND COLD, FEEL SICK SOMETIMES, CAN'T SLEEP WELL, I JUST DON'T FEEL RIGHT, I'M REALLY ANXIOUS, NAZY AND FEEL LIKE I'M GOING TO HAVE A BREAKDOWN!!!!MY 2 YEAR OLD SON (OLIVER) IS ALSO SHOWING SIGNS OF AUSTISM - WITH NO HELP FROM FAMILY AND NO FRIENDS, LIFE IS SO UNBEREABLE AND DEFINITELY NOT ENJOYABLE...PLEASE HELP, IS IT MENAPAUSE???/THANKS LISA LAVERNE

Lisa, 2/16/2009 8:30:06 AM
All the pads on the marketplace have adhesive on the entire underside. So I don't know what that girl was saying that noone makes one.

Melba, 2/20/2009 8:15:24 PM
I'm 46,I don't think I'm going thru monopause yet,truly really knew all the changes that your body can endure.Always associated menopause to night sweats,mood swing and period stops.Never heard about back pain,headaches,sore breast.I wonder if there's something I can do to prepare forehand.Ladies we can do this,if we can make thru childbirth,we can conquer this too ,with GOD'S help of cause!!

Melba, 2/21/2009 10:47:42 AM
Can someone tell me if forgetting a sign of menopause or just getting old??HAHa,well we just as well laugh then to cry!Always heard laughing is good for the soul!

Karen, 3/10/2009 1:37:08 PM
This is regarding Manta's question (7/08). It sounds like you have depression. I also had the heavy periods and mood swings. I had a complete hysterectomy and feel a whole lot better. Good luck.

Barb, 3/19/2009 10:47:43 PM
All of you people taking herbal supplements instead of a big, bad, prescription--ARE YOU CRAZY? The only difference between the two is that the herbal supplements are unregulated by the govt and you don't know what you are getting. The anti-depressants definitely help with the hot flashes, but I am having trouble sleeping. I can get to sleep but not stay asleep. I had a hysterectomy because of bad endrometriosis pain about four years ago, but I still have ovaries so I guess I get to do menopause too! The mood swings are awful, but soy products make me have awful diahrrea. Any other ideas?

Denise, 3/20/2009 7:09:50 AM
I am 46, skipped about 2 month without period but the last few days. Yikes! Heavy flow, with clots and lots of PMS. I am a carrier of a genetic syndrome called Fragile X and it does cause early menopause in carriers, so this is not unexpected. Check out www.Fragilex.org, to see what Fragile X is all about. Thanks and this to will pass.

jammie, 3/20/2009 8:03:16 AM
Yes I am going through it too, age 51 heavy periods a few times my period was so heavy I thought I was hemorrhaging. There are times I can feel myself ovalating, I'm hot and cold and I find myself wanting sex a lot more than I use to. I just take this time in my life for face value. I don't complain, it's nothing I can do and I am just grateful to be able to experience this part of my life Once you overcome severe times in your life this is a breeze. I am glad to still be able to say I am living the best years of mylife.

Melba, 3/21/2009 5:23:32 PM
Jammie,
It sounds to me menopause is not so bad after all,if it make me want sex,I would be please,(I know my husband would be pleased)because i'm always tired,I guess that has to do with being anemic and working 10 to 11 hrs 4 days a week,and coming home to a 2yr grandchild.I'm also sooooo happy GOD has bless me just to be in the land of the living!I'm not going to stress the things I can't change.Just enjoy the change:)

Diane, 3/22/2009 3:27:32 PM
So glad to read others experiences... it really helps. I am 51 and have been feeling rather "old and unattractive" too. Makes me feel a little better that many others are having this same feeling. I missed 4 months of my period and then started having them again... I only feel "normal" and healty when the periods come back. When the periods were gone I had hot flashes, sore breasts, FATIGUE and just did not feel like me... we think the periods are so bad, now I appreciate that it wasnt so bad after all.

PATTY, 4/1/2009 4:29:45 PM
I JUST FEEL BETTER KNOWING I AM NOT THE ONLY ONE. I AM FIFTY AND FAITHFULLY HAD A PERIOD EVERY 28 DAYS, OVER THE LAST FEW YEARS MY HAIR THINNED ON TOP AND A FEW HOT FLASHES, THEN IT STARTED MY PERIOD WAS HEAVY , THOUGHT SOMETHING WAS WRONG ESPECIALLY WHEN IT HAPPENED AGAIN IN TWO WEEKS , WHAT A MESS THEN CLOTS. MY DOCTOR SAID ITS THE FINALLY EPISODE. I FOUND THIS WEBSITE INHOPES SOMEONE ELSE MAYBE HAVING A HEAVY PERIOD OH AND CLOTS .I THOUGHT FOR SURE I NEED A TRANSFUSION AND A D&. THE LAST FEW DAYS I KNEW THE DOCTOR HAD TO BE WRONG AND I MUST BE DYING. NO ONE I EVER MEET EVER TALKED ABOUT THIS BEING SO MESSY . SO I THOUGHT MAYBE ONE PERSON MAYBE EXPERIENCING THIS. I READ MOST OF THE ABOVE AND ITS NICE TO KNOW ...I AM NOT ALONE AND JUST NEEDED TO HEAR THAT SOMEONE ELSE KNOWS WHAT I AM GOING THROUGH..SALUTE TO ALL OF YOU . PATTY

toya, 4/6/2009 3:40:03 PM
i will be 35 in november. i don't think that i am near the menopausal stages but everything that is written above, I have or am going through it now, especially the clotting that is about the size of my fist. the severity is that i am now chronically anemic and vit d deficient.....and just think, i'm only 35.

Nancy, 4/6/2009 11:59:30 PM
ok,,my Doctor says I am different in the fact that I am in full menopause at 42 and in stead of "hot" flashes I have "cold" more like freezing flashes. My hands and feet, are getting colder with me just writing about it. I some times forget my hands are very cold and I touch some one they jump out of there skin. Any one else freezing like me?
My thyroid was checked and so was my heart for circulation cause they were both normal.

carey, 4/13/2009 3:43:13 PM
hey, menopause sux...it really does...but men do have it bad...their penis' stop working, or just don't work as much...and they do have a menopause, and they do have pms....its been my experience, their pms is not as often, but lasts like a month or so...

anyways, for all you ladies going thru meno hell....i pray for you, and hope you find help for it...my moms just stopped 1 month after her 43rd birthday, no warning, no symptoms...just poof, gone...i'm now 44 and a half, mine have been allllll sorts of crazy...but luckily, no hot flashes...but mood swings....YES....

Denise, 6/18/2009 7:28:24 AM
Thanks to al, who come here and write what is going on.i just turned 53 and saying ok i am not the only one.I had skipped periods on and off and then get periods that are so light lasting 2 days and this months OMG.I felt so nausues and bloated and here goes my period heavy out of no where...Well this is day 3 and it has calmed a bit but when you go through light periods or no periods for 6 months this is scary...I get cold and then hot hrs later and achy as all heck...I thought maybe this was going to be gone soon but guess not and wondering how safe these HRT drugs are...Thank you all for being here....

jennifer 06/27/2009 12:31a, 6/26/2009 11:37:04 PM
All this really scares me.I'm 42 yrs old,having regular cycles that last about 5 days.I have mood swings,but my cycle is not always heavy.Reading all this does scare me.

Karen, 7/2/2009 8:55:25 PM
Jennifer, menopause is not scary at all. I was having heavy cycles and decided to have a complete hysterectomy last year at the age of 46. I am currently taking a low dose hormone and I feel fine. I feel a lot better than I have in years.

jenny, 7/3/2009 1:07:07 PM
I AM JENNY , MY ACH 27 I AM MENOPOS

WOTE I CAN DO ??? MY HUSBAND

AXPEACTING BABY .............. PLS U

HALLP..............???

Elaine, 7/17/2009 9:40:16 PM
I have read all of the comments and just want you all to know that there is a condition that makes you have hot flashes, could cause the anxiety attacks also, it's called sleep apnea, you stop breathing right while you sleep your body pannicks as your oxygen level goes down and if you are lucky you wake and take a breath, left untreated you could get to the point where you don't wake up and die. I am an RN and my first suggestion if you are you having hot flashes see you doctor get your hormone levels checked, if they are normal then have a sleep study done to check for sleep apnea, untreated you end up with pulmonary hypertension which even has more menopausal like symptoms and is dangerous to your heart, one lady wrote she has afib, that could also be caused by sleep apnea. I f your hormones are low then I suggest soy capsules or supplements they are a plant form of estrogen and easier to take than to drink soy milk or eating tofu, once you build it up in your blood it does help with the hotflashes, also what someone said about antidepressants is true but the best is Prozac as it doesn't cause weight gain or fluid retention. I am going through this with you and sleep with a fan and a blanket, forget sex drive, that's gone for now too. And for Jenny, see a gynecologist and get on birth control it should help your hormone levels and see about a fertility specialist, you can still have children but only if YOU want them, husbands come and go these days, you have to want to be a mother as it is a life long occupation and stressing yourself out only makes getting pregnant more difficult, relax and enjoy the trip. And Jennifer nothing to be afraid of, it's a major inconveinience but it's part of the priviledge of being a woman, men definitely have it easier but it just makes them bigger jerks, I wouldn't change for anything, and I have had cramps so bad that I threw up everyday from the pain but would still rather be a woman.

Vannak, 8/11/2009 7:26:27 PM
My mother id 56. she is through (mostly) her menopausal stage. right now with the family it seems lyk my father is the one who is having the mood swings and being a menopausal woman. :)

momto4, 8/16/2009 10:26:00 AM
here is me in a nutshell:
48 moody gaining weight tummy bulge night sweats - up and down at night to pee a couple of times and sometimes have a little trouble sleeping. usually get a period, may skip a month a couple of times a year, can be anything from light to heavy and 4 days to 10 but the last one was 10 days of very heavy and lots of clots. bloat like a dead fish if i eat fried foods. always hungry. don't have any insurance and can't run to the dr to be told what all these symptoms are perimenopause. i ride horses and now find that i need to use a maxi when i ride to prevent pee leaks when trotting. how awful is that? does all this seem normal to what ya'all are experiencing?

sharon, 8/21/2009 3:13:04 AM
I am 51 still having periods and I also get very bloated, my boobs get sore to the touch and I get cold flushes and go dizzy. I started my periods when I was 16 the pain was so bad I was put on the pill, I have never had normal periods, even after 3 kids. I have been put on a pill called Noriday which I have to take every day even when on a period. I just want to stop. I have a normal sex life in fact its better , but still I want to stop

Pam, 8/23/2009 12:16:07 AM
Hi Ya'll, I'm a little nervous. This is the first time I have commented on anything. I just turned 51, 2 weeks ago and tomorrow is my 34th wedding anniversary. I started my period when I was 11. Always had and still have killer cramps, which never lasted more than 3 days after my period started. Was on the pill off and on during my 20's. Husband had a vescectomy a couple of years after our one and only daughter was born (C-Section). Periods always lasted 7 days; light, med, heavy didn't matter. About 15 years ago irregular periods, skip a month 2 the next for a couple of years. Then I was diagnosed with fibroid tumors in my uterus. Periods got heavier and lasting 10 days, more cramping (lasting 5 days). Sorry if I'm getting a little long. Let's jump to the present. 2 years ago my periods are lasting 14 days with very heavy flow; super tampons and pads every couple of hours. Change before I leave the house and better be changing in 2 hours or I'm washing clothes because I've had a gusher (don't mean to gross out anyone). 5 months ago, I bled 40 days out of the 60. Skipped a month and then spotted for 2 weeks (I prayed that was the end). I gushed for the next 20 days. Skipped a month and this last one was heavy from start to finish for 15 days. It seems the harder I pray for it to all end the worse it gets. Oh by the way, one year ago after having emergency gall bladder surgery they found cysts in my right breast. Last year I was also diagnosed with Menorrhagia (heavy menstrual bleeding). I just happened on to the MayoClinic.com website and found a pretty good arcticle on Menorrhagia. Once again i'm sorry for being so lengthy. That's another story. I hope this helps someone out there. And I hope there are others that wish it would go away. I don't need it, I don't want it, I want it gone. I'm afraid to leave the house during my period. Thank you for listening.

TERESA, 9/9/2009 7:39:28 PM
HELLO, TO YOU ALL. THE REASON I FIRST CAME ONTO THIS SITE WAS BECAUSE OF MY 11 YR OLD GETTING HER CYCLE. THEN AFTER READING SOME OF THE LETTERS I DECIDED TO LEAVE SOME INPUT.
LAST YEAR AT 43,WELL HAD SYMPTOMS BEFORE, BLED FOR 4 MONTHS STRAIGHT. WAS BLEEDING THROUGH A SUPER PLUS TAMPON AND A OVERNIGHT PAD EVERY TWO HOURS,PLUS BLEEDING THROUGH MY CLOTHING AT THE SAME TIME.
MY DOCTOR TOLD ME I "TOO YOUNG TO BE GOING THROUGH MENOPAUSE"
FINALLY TOLD ME OF A PROCEDURE THAT WOULD STOP THE BLEEDING, PLUS I WOULD GET TO KEEP "MY GOODY BASKET".
IT IS CALLED SOMETHING LIKE AN UTERINE ABALATION. NOT SURE ABOUT THE SPELLING,BUT THE NAME IS CALLED NOVA SURE. IT BASICALLY CARTERIZES THE UTERINE WALL,SO NO MORE BLEEDING AND NO HRT PILLS TO TAKE. IT HAS BEEN A YEAR SINCE AND ONCE IN A WHILE ONCE A MONTH,MAYBE I WIPE A LITTLE BLOOD.
NO PADS, NO LINER, OR ANYTHING.
I'M NOT SURE IF THIS WILL HELP ANYONE OR NOT,BUT I HOPE IT DOES.
THE PROCEDURE ONLY TAKES 90 SECONDS, TOTAL. AND IT FELT LIKE ONE BIG BAD CRAMP. I STILL HAVE SOME OF THE SYMPTOMS OF "AUNT FLO" ON OCCATION , BUT IT IS BETTER THAN BLEEDING EVERYDAY FOR 4 MONTHS.
I HOPE THIS HAS BEEN OF SOME HELP.

Mari, 9/18/2009 10:34:43 PM
I am 53 and in peri menopause...I have had things i never had and this is horrible.I went to Gyn had pap that was normal , 5 days leater back because itching and burning as he found a non specific slight bacterial infection and gave me gel...He also said he found some inflamatory cells in my urine but not enought for infection.I felt fine and now feel burning again so going to my regualr doctor to get a urine analysis to make sure in 3 weeks i didnt get worse to ease my mind.Now i have this itching on my lips of vagina and that comes and goes but nothing specific to see...I get chills and wake up drench and my stress level is maxed and the gyn says all is normal on pap and doesnt see anything...So i sit here saying okay am i nuts....For 3 months got period on time and heavy for 3 days light for 2 and gone then the following month it came like 2 days and nothing and this month came left came like nothing major but it stops and starts which drives me bonkers.I am so dry so a tampon bothers me now...I have never had any of this stuff so i know it has to be homonal although the doctors wont say that....

Mar66, 9/25/2009 2:49:48 PM
This comment is for the last 3 commenters. I'm 43 and I know what you're going through. Periods that are wild, out of control, up and down, sideways, heavy, light, don't come at all. My journey started when I was about 38-39. Wacky symptoms like earaches, toothaches, bone pain, hair loss, ringing in my ears, chest pain on both sides, migraines, forgetfulness, mood swings, hot & cold, sweating, thirsty. I had a period that lasted for 2 months and then one that lasted for 38 days. I thought I was going to die! It was the worst thing and I was so tired. I went to the doctor for all of this because I thought I was a diabetic, heart attack candidate, thought I had TMJ, arthritis, rheumatoid arthritis, dementia, finally I thought I was going just plain crazy and so did my husband. Now at 43, things have chilled out a bit. I still have the migraines and bone pain but more or less I know when the migraines are coming and I take ibuprofen for the bone pain. It's only during my period. My periods are no where near as heavy or lengthy as they were but there are very clotted. I'm only telling you guys this because you're not alone. I don't have any really great advice but I hope the symptoms tone down for you guys a bit. Exercise has improved the way I feel and it seems to lessen the intensity of cramping and bone pain. My kids have flown the coop so I don't know what to tell those of you have children at home still. I know you are so busy & I know it is hard to find time for you. I know how it is though and you will be in my thoughts and prayers because these changes are difficult to say the least.

Irene , 9/27/2009 6:10:02 PM
Thanks for suggesting "Night" Kotex for the length. They are too thick to wear all the time. However, there are those of us past menopause who need protection all day - every day but not enough to wear those "panties." Perhaps you might develop a new product, as long as "Night" but half as thick. I am 82 yrs old and use a pad 365 days a year. I am searching for a
long pad that feels comfortable all day.
Sometimes there are five or more changes per day but I am not required to undress to make a change nor is it necessary.

Thank you for listening.

patp, 10/5/2009 11:55:16 PM
Thanks to Mar66..I thought I was going crazy,the earaches,toothaches always were a doc run, the hair loss was blamed on losing mom @ bro...then the night sweats started. I really haven't slept well in over a year. I'm really afraid of the drugs so I quess I'll try and ride it out. My dear little nurse prac.almost laughed when I told her what was going on.Soy milk and patience unless I get postal, Is there a time line for this?? It made me feel so much better reading all these posts.Thanks for making my journey easier!

Lisa, 11/9/2009 4:30:01 PM
How much hair loss is normal? I can tell my hair isn't what it used to be but this scares me. Had my period for 10 days. Getting lighter but when will it end. I am going to be 49. I got my period since a month before I was eleven. I am so sick of this. I am getting very forgetful. Glad to see others are too. I thought I was going crazy. Very good website. I wish they would make a bigger pad.