Sounds like you are in perimenopause,
That is where you have your period AND menopause symptoms.
For PMS try a calming tea.
You may find that your hot flashes will go away if you cut the
caffiene and chocolate out especially if you eat a lot of it.
Trish
Email; trish@...
Web Site; http://www.herbals-unlimited.com
ICQ# 52898091

Trish, it's hard to tell about the mood swings. I'm still getting my
period (albeit somewhat more irregularly) and I have terrific mood
swings around that; my husband knows to take cover when it's PMS
time. So I can't tell if it's still the one or partly the other.

Such bad news about caffeine and chocolate, both of which (especially
the former) are such staples of my life! (rueful sigh)

JeannetteThanks for the welcome. I am just beginning menopausal
symptoms (in
point of fact, hot flashes) and have so far done nothing but increase
exercise and my intake of soy. I'd love to learn more about what is
starting to happen to me and how to alleviate its more unpleasant
symptoms.

Thank you!

Jeannette