Night sweats
Hot flushes that happen at night, often soaking sheets and breaking sleep.
What it feels like
Night sweats are hot flushes that happen while you sleep. You may wake up hot and damp, sometimes needing to change your nightwear or bedding, then struggle to get back to sleep.
Why it happens
The cause is the same as hot flushes: changing oestrogen levels affect how the brain regulates temperature. The difference is the effect on sleep, which can quickly lead to tiredness, low mood and poor concentration during the day.
What can help
- HRT reduces night sweats for most women and often improves sleep as a result.
- Non-hormonal options can be considered if HRT is not right for you.
- A cool bedroom, breathable bedding and a glass of water by the bed can make nights easier.
When to see a doctor
See a doctor if night sweats are regular and disturbing your sleep. Night sweats with unexplained weight loss, fever or swollen glands should always be checked promptly, as they can have other causes.
Night sweats commonly start during perimenopause, while periods are still happening. If they are waking you most nights, a doctor can build an HRT plan around your symptoms and adjust it until they stop.
Often goes with night sweats.
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Sleep & energy
Sleep problems
Waking at 3am, lying awake, and never quite feeling rested.
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Sleep & energy
Low energy
Tired on waking, flat by mid-afternoon, and less able to recover than you used to be.
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Body
Hot flushes
A sudden wave of heat through the chest, neck and face, often with flushing and a racing heart.
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Questions about night sweats, answered.
Are night sweats a sign of menopause?
They are one of the most common symptoms of perimenopause and menopause. They are hot flushes that happen during sleep.
Will HRT stop my night sweats?
HRT is the most effective treatment for night sweats for most women, and better sleep usually follows.
What if HRT is not suitable for me?
There are non-hormonal medicines that reduce night sweats, and CBT can reduce how much they affect you. Your doctor will go through the options that fit your history.
When should night sweats be checked urgently?
If they come with unexplained weight loss, fever or swollen glands, see your GP promptly, as these can have other causes.
Hormones matter.
Let's treat them properly.
Medical care that puts you back in control, with a doctor who listens, clear options and treatment tailored to you.
