As soon as you begin noticing changes in your menstrual cycle, especially if you’re in your 40’s, you should consult with your gynecologist, who will probably want to run a battery of tests. One of tests your doctor should perform is a blood test that will check your hormone levels.

But change is certain. There is no predicting your own passage through menopause; it may be long or short, bumpy or smooth. Nor can you foresee time when you will begin it.

Whenever and however menopausal changes appear, it can be valuable to have information beforehand and while you’re experiencing menopause. Studies have shown that women who are prepared to take charge of their own health care tend to do best through menopausal passage. Information can function as your survival kit as you negotiate your way through this very important change in your life.

At end of day, you don't want to attract a guy because he thinks you're hot. You want to attract a guy who likes you for you. Dress sexily but subtly. You don't want your clothes to scream, "I gotta find me a man tonight!"

Dress comfortably. If you feel comfortable, you'll look comfortable, and that's sexy. Here's an example: Once upon a time I went to beach with some friends who actually have melanin in their skin. They took to their blankets in their cute bikinis, while I (so pale I make Snow White look like Grace Jones) sat beside them wearing Levis, a long-sleeved shirt, and sunglasses.

Out of nowhere, a gorgeous, well-toned man appeared (the type of guy you see in suntan lotion commercials) and asked me, freak on beach, what I was reading.

"Wuthering Heights," I said.

"Really?" he asked. "I just finished Jane Eyre."

And so began a little romance.

Still bewildered, I told my male friend B. this story years later. I didn't understand why this Adonis chose Glow-in-the-Dark Terry over dark lovelies in bikinis.

"I understand completely," B. responded. "The beach was crawling with girls in bikinis, and you presented something else. A little mystery."

"In a pair of Levis?"

"Yeah," he said. "The guy probably thought, this girl is different. I want to talk to her."

Does this mean you should throw away your bikini? Heck, no, especially if you look good in it. But point is, be true to yourself. Dress to make very best of your unique and beautiful body.

You'll attract men who are looking for someone special for a change.