Hi there my name is Donna, I'm 38 & was diagnosed as being in early perimenopause 5yrs ago. Recently had my smear & discussed with nurse about my current symptoms, main thing being sleep deprivation!! I'm waking it seems on the hour every hour atm, so tired everyday, brain fog, forgetfulness, headaches, terrible acne, loss of libido, my periods are usually every 27 days although only lasting 4 days getting lighter each month but very painful. For the first time ever I'm 12 days late this month & no sign of a period coming anytime soon (nurse confirmed this whilst taking sample from cervix).... Hot flushes & night sweats were horrendous but seem to have passed now thank god. Made an appointment with Dr for next wk, nurse said they'll probably suggest re-doing bloods to check FSH levels & most possibly offer HRT. I feel rather apprehensive about this as I don't like taking pills. Not had any need to use contraception since hubby had vasectomy 12yrs ago so not sure I want to start pumping meds through my body now... But my bones are also getting worse & aches/pains which nurse said is also symptom of upcoming menopause & that it's important to have HRT to prevent osteoporosis?! Any advice appreciated x