I started going through menopause in my early 40's (I am now in my early 60's). I first tried natural, holistic herbs and teas. Those did not work. Next I went on a hormone patch for a few years. It was recommended by my doctor that I stop that. All the systems came roaring back. It's hard raise children, work and live a normal life when you are sleep deprived and do not feel like you are living in your own body. After some research I discovered bioidentical hormone cream and a doctor that would take the time to figure out what was right for me. Within a week I was starting to feel better, and in the following months felt a return to my normal self. I plan to continue on this cream indefinitely. Please do not put restrictions on something that works for so many of us and has no apparent side effects.