Early sixties. Periods were normal right up to the end! No other issues re. menopause other than the never-ending hourly flushes. I put up with the flushes for over 10 years, then I gave up ... couldn't take them anymore so went on HRT but stopped after about three months, gave my body a rest, then tried the 2nd make of patches. Currently giving my body a rest again, but because of early stage osteoperosis it's probably wise to go back on to HRT again - at least for a while - which is why I'm looking into a 3rd type of patches which will hopefully not include the sore and bigger breasts! I'm not taking any medication for the osteo. other than calcium and vitamin D. I've checked with a rheumatologist and it's not necessary for me to take medication for another couple of years at least, when I'll need to have another dexa scan to see if there's been any deterioration. I don't like taking any form of medication for anything. Hope this info. helps. Thank you.