I went through menopause quite early and it lasted about four years. I took no hormones or natural creams of any kind and didn't grow a moustache. I didn't have hot flashes but had drenching night sweats. Be prepared to draw lots of hot baths and be there for comfort. Hot baths and cold beer seemed to work just fine for me.

The most difficult part was that I was very, very emotional. I think of menopause as the reverse of adolescence. Hormones rule! Menopause is just another stage. Remember, it is only a temporary state of being and it will pass. When I finally got to the other side it felt like I had finally arrived. What a great feeling. My mind, my body and my soul were finally in harmony.