Does hormone replacement therapy help with hot flushes?

Hot flushes happen when changing hormone signals affect the body's temperature control. HRT replaces some of the hormones that fall around menopause, which may make flushing episodes less frequent or less intense. The response differs between people, and symptoms can have causes other than menopause. Treatment choice depends on your symptoms, age, medical history, and whether you still have a uterus.

Discuss your symptoms and goals with a qualified clinician. They can explain oestrogen-only and combined treatment, routes such as patches, gels, or tablets, and whether local treatment would address your concern. Keep a brief record of triggers, sleep disruption, periods, and medicines. Cooling layers, a cool bedroom, and limiting personal triggers may provide additional support.

Arrange medical review if flushing begins unexpectedly, is accompanied by unexplained weight loss, persistent fever, chest symptoms, or severe palpitations, or disrupts sleep and daily activities. Seek urgent help for chest pain, trouble breathing, fainting, or sudden weakness.

Ask whether HRT fits your history, which form and dose might suit your symptoms, how long to review the plan, and what bleeding or other changes should be reported.