Most of us don't think of researching and learning about "the change" until it is already happening to us. Then, when we are miserable, we try to find a way out of the discomfort. There are many benefits in learning about menopause well before it happens to us, and there are even some things you can do before it happens that will lessen the suffering when it does come!

It is certainly recommended that you see your doctor while you are going through menopause, but there are also some herbal remedies that can help you through "the change." You can find an herbal pill called Black Cohosh at many department stores and drugstores. This herb will keep your hot flashes to a minimum, and it also relieves cramping and menstrual pain. Another herb that can help you is Chaste tree, a hormonal balancer that lessens depression set on by menopause.

The normal age that women start menopause is usually around fifty to fifty-one, but there are also cases where it starts early, like as a result of surgery, chemotherapy, cancer or other serious diseases. Menopause can also start early without a cause.

Before "the change" occurs, you will go through a phase called "Peri-Menopause." During this time it is normal to have very heavy menstrual cycles, mood swings and depression. The herbs discussed above (especially the Black Cohosh) will greatly improve these symptoms. The herb, "Liferoot," is another good treatment that helps eliminate hot flashes and alleviates those heavy periods. If you are experiencing depression, try taking Gingko or St. John's Wort to help improve your mood, stress and anxiety.

After the first phase, menopause really starts and more symptoms can develop. These symptoms can include:

&bull Hot flashes

&bull Night sweats

&bull Migraine headaches

&bull Insomnia

&bull Weight gain

&bull Aches and pains in joints and muscles

&bull Dizziness

&bull Fatigue

&bull Depression

&bull Skin problems

This list can be very overwhelming, but don't worry; they don't usually occur all at once! If you have any of these symptoms for a prolonged amount of time, and none of the herbal remedies are working, make sure you see your doctor.

Some people would rather go to their doctor and get a prescription than trust herbal remedies, and this can work for your menopause symptoms as well. Remember though, that some of these medications can upset your hormonal balance, and some estrogen supplements are really not healthy for you in the long run. Some of the things your doctor can give you are:

&bull Estrogen replacement

&bull Birth control pills

&bull Progesterone cream

&bull Vitamin supplements

Vitamin supplements should be taken whether or not you are going with herbal or prescription remedies for your menopause. Your body will be going through something stressful, new and extra vitamins are needed to help your body regulate itself.