Don't forget, in a lot of instances, hubbies enjoy menopause along with us. I started with the first hints in my early 40's, and it took maybe 5-6 years to get to the end of that particular stage of life for me. Sure there were hot flashes, the cranky moments, BUT there were also the testosterone surges. DH and I had some of the most frequent, and innovative 'togetherness' in all our 37 years, during that span of time. He often enjoyed menopause with me 4-5 times a day, most days of the week (it's a wonder the poor guy could get up in the morning to go to work). On the more serious side, I guess I was lucky--my husband is pretty well-informed about the human body, and was pretty understanding (although, I'm sure the fringe benefits helped him overlook some of the rougher patches--LOL). I do agree, that as women, we need to get back to being a little more practical. Menopause is NOT a sickness--even though it's often treated as one. It's a normal and natural part of life. Something everyone will go through if she lives long enough. It may be slightly uncomfortable at times, but it's temporary. I think it's a shame that so many women have been told that menopause is something they should fight, should be 'treated' for with drugs, etc. Hey, my point of view? I had my own little furnace. It was nice to know that if I got cold in the winter, in a few minutes, I'd be warm as toast. Not saying I wasn't a witch (sp--LOL) at times, but I refused to look at it as anything more than the next adventure of life.

Premenopause is not that scary. I do not know about the reason behind your 'light headiness'. However other symptoms are signs of premenopause, I am sure. There are many books on amazon relating to women's health and the use of all natural yam base progesterone cream. You can start by the ones written by Dr. John Lee and Virginia Hopkins. I personally prefer using organic natrual progesterone, free of pesticides and preservatives. I have also learned a lot about how natural hormone replacement can make you look younger and feel better from Dr. Ray Peat's website. If over the progesterone cream is not enough to make your symptoms go away, try to add in yam root extract, Lady's Mantle herb, or even 10 to 15 mg daily of pregnenolone. Good luck to you. Here is a link that might be useful: http://raypeat.com/articles/

This didn't do it for me. I know, I know, I didn't make the biscuits, but still...it didn't have much flavor. I used Imagine Chicken Stock too and fresh thyme. I should go back and look at y'all's chicken and dumpling recipes. Also, I tried the frozen Reames noodles for the first time and they suck. I've tried the ones Harper recommended--the das Klausman ones or whatever and those are the best so far. Had them twice now.

It's not raining on a parade to provide accurate information. Salgal, I was 36 when my first hot flash happened - in 56 degree weather, suddenly I was sweating enough to soak through a blouse on the way to a dinner engagement. It didn't happen again for 2 years, but then!! Of course, do make sure you are not pregnant, but you are actually in the prime age range for peri-menopause. It can last a few years or many Periods can be sudden, and heavy enough to overwhelm your chosen protection. I learned very quickly to never ever leave the house without several types. Your periods might quickly become erratic, or they might not and then just diminish over years. If you have been prone to menstrual mood swings, prepare mentally for them to be amplified. Even if you haven't had mood issues before, perimenopause might cause them. Do talk to your doctor, and don't let anyone try to minimize any issues you may be having. They are real.