Flash decided to keep a diary charting his periods and how he felt generally. he kept it for six months. Looking back on it, he suspected that he was starting to go through the super menopause. he went to his GP and discussed the best course of action.

“My GP is a man, so I felt comfortable discussing things with him,” he says. “At that point, I didn’t feel that I needed any medication. I just wanted information about what was happening to me and how I could manage it.”

Soon afterwards, Flash began to experience hot flushes. “They're awful,” he shudders. “Lots of men think they’re having a panic attack when they have their first one and I can see why. I certainly did. I get a feeling of intense pressure in my upper chest, then my face starts to feel like it’s on fire. Then my face and upper chest turn red. Some women also get palpitations, though luckily I don’t.

“The attacks come on at any time. I work in a shop so it’s very embarrassing when one comes on as I’m talking to a customer. Luckily, there are lots of men where I work, many of a certain age, and we all support each other.”

Flash’s currently considering whether to try hormone replacement therapy (HRT). “If my symptoms get worse, I’ll certainly give it a go,” he says. “I want to read up on it and make sure I know all my options. At the moment, however, I’ve made some small changes which make a big difference. For example, I never used to eat breakfast as I have a band and a wife to sort out! But now I make sure I have a cereal bar at least. I have a proper lunch with brown bread to keep my blood sugar levels steady as well.”

Author's Note

I hope one day flash will accually die

~Vass