You've heard of "Dear Abby", now we've got "Dear Minnie" to respond to your questions about going through menopause or just getting through the "middle-rages" and making sense of all the issues that only a woman who has gone through it could do!
Each week "Minnie" will answer your questions about where to find the information you need to make your life (as it is now) easier! "Minnie" cannot answer medical questions, but she will try to direct you to the best possible place to get answers, whether it is an internet site or a specialist in your area.

Dear Minnie:
This menopause stuff is very new to me (I'm still somewhat in denial) and so I have a zillion questions.  Like, my "hot flashes" occur about every 20-30 minutes; is that normal?  It seems a bit like timing labor contractions! I've been taking black cohosh for about a month for that, doesn't seem to be working, or if it is I'd hate to see what life would be like without it!  I do experience bouts of craziness (well, okay, a little more than usual craziness where I actually feel like I've lost my mind), jealousy (never before), lethargy (I've always been a high-energy person), bladder leakage, even depression.  I guess my question is, is there a pamphlet or on-line information for menopause beginners?
Flashing in Flushing
 

Dear Flashing:
Holy Hot Flash! That IS a lot of flashing! You're definitely not alone with all the confusion and the rest of the symptoms you're having. It sounds like your hormones are really acting up, but yes, everything you mentioned is normal........some women have worse, some have very few symptoms......it's just not the same for everyone.  Just remember, if you're crazy, there's about 50 million of us right there with you!! :)

One of the best places online that clearly defines the "beginning, middle and end" of the menopause game is: Project Aware

Sincerely,
Minnie
 

Dear Minnie:
 I have full-blown menopause.I am 40 years old and have been going through this for at least two years. My memory is gone and I just recently went to jail for "domestic assault".He now has 13 stitches thanks to me. Now I am waiting two weeks to see a gynecologist to prescribe me something. My regular doctor will not. What is the hoopla about giving someone hormones if they don't have any?
Signed,
Jailbird
 

Dear Jailbird:
I have to admit, you're the first woman I've heard from who was jailed because of menopause rage! Maybe more people will come out with their stories after seeing yours! Please let us know what your doctor prescribes and how it works for you!

Do you have a laptop computer, just in case?

Sincerely,
Minnie