In this article

What is it? When does it occur? Physical symptoms

Emotional symptoms Hormone replacement therapy Nutrition

Self-help Advice and support

Coping with hot flushes - wear layers of clothing, which you can easily peel off and put on again. Wear natural fibres. Use cotton bedding and nightclothes, which absorb moisture more efficiently.

Avoiding hot flushes - keep hot drinks such as tea and coffee, alcohol and spicy foods to a minimum. Avoiding tea and coffee is also a good idea because caffeine can cause insomnia and lead to calcium being lost from the body. Try a herbal alternative.

Don't smoke - smoking increases the risk of heart disease and osteoporosis, so if you've been thinking about giving up but never quite got around to it, now is the time to quit for good.

Stick to a healthy diet and get plenty of exercise - this will help to keep stress levels to a minimum, as well as being of physical benefit. It's never too late to start.

Drink plenty of water - it's a great cleanser and purifier and can help with many of the symptoms, including hot flushes, headaches and dry skin.

Continue to use contraception - for two years after your last period if you're under 50, or otherwise a year.

Try to stay positive - and remember, this is only a temporary phase in your life.

Get support - having people around you who understand what's going on is invaluable.

The Daisy Network

A charity and support group for women experiencing premature menopause (before the age of 40).
Website: www.daisynetwork.org.uk

Women's Health Concern

Helpline: 0845 123 2319
Website: www.womens-health-concern.org

This article was last medically reviewed by Dr Trisha Macnair in August 2007.