Perimenopause Dilemma

Ok, this post is one for women and maybe a few of you can understand what I'm talking about.

So... I am quickly becoming aware of the meaning of perimenopause. I never thought I would be going through such horror..haha.. This is the time many women experience an array of symptoms as their hormones shift during the months or years leading up to menopause.
I experienced my first case of night sweats...oh my...how awful. I scared my dog who sleeps on the edge of my bed. I threw off the covers in such rage that they flew on top of her and she jumped right off the bed!

Then there's...'aunt flo', my 'friend' or whatever pet name you have for your monthly arrival of pain, moods and the blues. Since my friend has a mind of it's own these days, it's arrival is never known and always comes as a surprise.

Let's not forget bloat. Geez...my clothes that once fit me last week, are fitting a little more snugly. Luckily I've gained only a pound, according to the scale, but even so...the clothes fit differently. No more belly shirts for me! haha...just kidding...I never wore them, but I think you understand what I'm saying.

When did this happen? My doctor said I can take the many over the counter medications offered,but after doing some research,these so called "natural" remedies are not natural at all. Some made with horse mare urine. How in the world is that natural for me? for horses maybe, but why would I want to take that?

After reading Suzanne Somers book, The Sexy Years: Discover the Hormone Connection: The Secret to Fabulous Sex, Great Health, and Vitality, for Women and Men, I am contemplating natural, bioidentical hormonal replacement. This seems to make more sense to me than other treatments available. I learned how estrogen, progesterone, and testosterone work together and the book provided me with enough information so I can at least have an intellectual conversation with my doctor.

I never before gave any thought to symptoms I would experience in my later years. I never gave thought about the changes my body would go through. Well, those years have arrived I suppose. The Wonderful signs of aging.

There is so much information available giving the pros and cons, but it can make ones head spin. What's the truth? I've read about herbs, vitamins and minerals that can help symptoms, but how do you make an informed decision with so many opinions out there?

I am a little confused on how to handle the hormone dance. Does anyone have any advice or have any tips to help a woman go through this natural part of our aging perimenopause years?