georgygirl,   Not sure if you are still out there, but I am suffering with major hives/skin rash or something.  Covering my stomach, legs, back.  Itchy and red bumps.  So uncomfortable.  It seems like it comes on strong right before a period. I am 49 and definitely approaching or in or ?? menopause.  I just can tell my hormone levels are whacked.  Periods are incredibly heavy and severe and last over a week.  I had to go to doc to stop the bleeding this month.  Hives arrived a couple days before the period and are still here.  Just so miserable.   Was your cure or help actually taking replacement hormones or ????  Any help would be great.   I'm located in Southern California area.   Thanks