I've been on the other side of the BigM for almost 5 years now. Mostly it is a lovely thing. It was a bit of a hormone roller coaster there for a while. Had the boys at 38 & 40. Nursed for a couple years. Periods were odd for a couple years then stopped when I was 47.
The doctor that I was going to at the time liked HRT, but I discovered quickly that this made me as insane as BCPs and quit quickly. I had minimal issues with stuff like hot flashes. I take herbal products that seem to take care of that.
I love not having a period anymore. That part is nice. I do have to work a little harder at solving some of the other issues though. In TMI land, thankfully I haven't had any issue with dryness, and no pain, but sadly my interest has diminished big time. This must be solved because I know it isn't right and I'm not willing to let it stay this way for the rest of my life. Also, trust me on this, one can't research this on the internet. I just have to get back to my doctor again. She seems willing to work with me to find a solution. Ugh. Stupid hormones.