Your Guide to Understanding Vasomotor Symptoms: Night Sweats, Flashes, and More
One of the most unsettling aspects of perimenopause and menopause can be the sudden onset of vasomotor symptoms like night sweats and hot flashes. For many, these symptoms are not just uncomfortable but also disruptive, affecting quality of life and well-being. This guide aims to demystify vasomotor symptoms, offering insight and actionable advice on how to manage them effectively.
What Are Vasomotor Symptoms?
Vasomotor symptoms are primarily associated with the changes in hormone levels that happen during menopause transition. They can manifest as hot flashes, night sweats, and even cold flashes. These are often the body’s response to fluctuating estrogen levels, which affect the hypothalamus, the part of the brain that regulates body temperature.
The Impact on Mental and Physical Health
Vasomotor symptoms are not just a physical inconvenience; they can also have significant effects on mental health. Sleep disruption due to night sweats can lead to fatigue and irritability, affecting your daily performance and emotional well-being.
Read more about how fluctuating hormones and perimenopause/menopause symptoms can affect your mental, emotional, and physical health in our other blog posts:
- The 4 Major Neurotransmitters and How They Influence Your Mental Health
- How Your Gut Health Supports Your Mental Health & Impacts Your Mood
- Understanding Your Parasympathetic Nervous System & How To Keep It Balanced
- Managing A Hyperactive Sympathetic Nervous System During Menopause [& The Most Effective Ways To Bring It Back To Balance]
- Moody Menopause
Treatment Options: Hormone Therapy and More
Hormone therapy is often considered the most effective treatment for vasomotor symptoms. Both systemic hormone therapies, like transdermal estrogen, and localized therapies can offer relief. However, it’s essential to consult your healthcare provider for a personalized treatment plan tailored to your medical history and symptoms.
Read the latest position statement from NAMS (North American Menopause Society) about hormone therapy for women.
Non-Hormonal Therapies
For those who cannot or choose not to undergo hormone therapy, other options exist. Some clinical trials suggest that non-hormonal medications like SSRIs and lifestyle changes such as regular exercise and dietary modifications can also alleviate symptoms.
If you would like to see where your hormone levels are at and gain more insight on your hormonal health, order our at-home hormonal test kit where you can take the test and get results in the comfort of your own home!
You can also book a 1-on-1 consultation with Dr. Sarah Bonza and discuss your concerns about your perimenopause or menopause symptoms and hormonal health.
Lifestyle Changes to Consider
Small, everyday changes can go a long way. Incorporating regular exercise, staying hydrated, and avoiding triggers like spicy foods and alcohol can help manage symptoms. In addition, stress management techniques such as mindfulness and meditation can be instrumental in handling vasomotor symptoms more effectively. You can read more about how relieve yourself from hot flashes in our other blog post, Finding Relief: Treating Hot Flashes during Menopause.
The Importance of Community Support
The path through menopause is one you needn’t walk alone. Platforms like Bonza Health provide a supportive community where women can share experiences, tips, and emotional support. Open conversations about vasomotor symptoms can help you feel less isolated and more empowered.
Join our FREE Perimenopause Support Group on Facebook to be a part of an empowering, supportive community of women who are also on their journey!
Conclusion
Vasomotor symptoms can be one of the most challenging aspects of the menopausal transition. However, understanding what they are and the treatments available can significantly reduce their impact on your life. With proper guidance from healthcare providers and the support of a strong community, you can navigate this phase with confidence and grace.
Find more helpful tools and information about perimenopause, menopause, and women’s hormonal health on the Bonza Health Blog or on our Instagram page!
