How common are hot flushes in perimenopause?

Perimenopause is the transition before menopause, when ovarian hormone levels fluctuate. Periods may become closer together, farther apart, lighter, or heavier, and hot flushes can appear alongside these changes. An episode may bring sudden heat in the face, neck, or chest, followed by sweating or chills.

Symptoms do not follow one fixed timetable. Some people have occasional flushes, while others experience them more often or mainly at night. Sleep disruption can affect concentration, energy, and mood. Other conditions and medicines can also cause heat or sweating, so a clinician can help interpret a new pattern.

Record flushes beside your period dates, sleep, stress, food, alcohol, room temperature, and medicines. Wear removable layers, keep the bedroom cool, and use breathable bedding. These simple changes can make episodes easier to handle while you decide whether further support is needed.

Make an appointment when symptoms affect sleep, relationships, work, or confidence. A clinician can discuss non-hormonal and hormonal approaches where appropriate, taking account of your health history and contraception or pregnancy needs.

Get urgent help for a hot episode accompanied by chest pain, severe breathlessness, fainting, confusion, or sudden weakness. Arrange prompt advice for persistent fever, unexplained weight loss, or soaking night sweats. Very heavy bleeding, bleeding between periods, or bleeding after sex should be assessed rather than attributed automatically to perimenopause.

Do my flushes and period changes fit perimenopause? Could another condition or medicine be contributing? What can help my sleep? Which bleeding changes need prompt assessment?