What's actually happening.
Around 75% of women experience vasomotor symptoms during the menopause transition, and about a third describe them as severe, lasting more than five years on average. These episodes are driven by the loss of oestrogen's regulation of the brain's temperature centre.
They are not just an inconvenience. Recurrent night sweats fragment sleep, compound fatigue, and are now recognised as an independent risk factor for cardiovascular disease when sustained over time.
Common signs
- · Sudden flushes lasting one to five minutes
- · Night sweats with soaked sheets and broken sleep
- · Palpitations, particularly on waking
- · Skin flushing without a temperature change
- · Peaks in late afternoon or around 4am
How I approach this.
Hot flushes are the most HRT-responsive of all menopause symptoms. For most women, transdermal oestrogen with appropriate progestogen produces a 75% or greater reduction in symptom severity within six to twelve weeks.
Where HRT is not suitable, I offer evidence-based alternatives including SSRIs, SNRIs, gabapentin, and CBT for hot flushes. We will work through your medical history, family risk profile, and personal preferences to find what fits.
Whatever route we take, you will leave with a written plan, a review built in at 8 to 12 weeks, and a clinical letter so your NHS GP can continue care if you prefer.
Ready to feel like yourself again?
A 45-minute menopause consultation includes full assessment, a written plan, and an HRT prescription if appropriate.