How long does the menopause last?

I too am on the lowest possible dose of oestrogen only HRT. If I come off I turn into the bitch from hell plus hot flushes, cold flushes, memory loss, the works! I've been taking HRT since I had a full hysterectomy in my early fifties, I'm now 68. I have tried to slowly wean myself off a couple of times but the threat of divorce has sent me scuttling back for more pills! Apparently, the latest reports say low oestrogen only HRT is fine, for as long as you want it.

So, I think the menopause can last as long as you can take it!

Really interesting reading all the replies - the variation is fascinating. I'm 56 and about 8 years into hot flushes, with woolly brain, forgetfulness inability to concentrate and low mood developing in the last few years. It's bloomin miserable, and am so tempted by HRT. Am very envious of those who dodge all these ghastly symptoms - if there was a choice I'd have my periods back any day as they weren't much of a problem!

I was determined to go it alone & not take HRT but after 8 years of peri menopause with pretty much every symptom known to woman the one that tipped me over the edge was the aching bones. Some days they were so painful I could barely move, I was 50. I've been on bioidentical HRT for 18 months now & most of my symptoms have disappeared. It's been an ongoing battle with doctors who know little or nothing about HRT as well as hospital checks & a small gynae op last week but I'm so glad I made that choice. It seriously has given me my life back.