Night Sweats
Women may experience night sweats during perimenopause and menopause.
You may experience a slight warm or hot sensation with little sweating.
You may also sweat heavily, with your clothing and bed linen possibly becoming damp from sweating.
Night sweats may be accompanied by hot flushes.
Fluctuating and declining oestrogen levels affect the hypothalamus, which is the part of the brain responsible for regulating (that is, controlling) our body temperature.
When you speak to your doctor or healthcare provider about night sweats, do not forget to mention that you may be perimenopausal or menopausal (if it has not been already been confirmed and noted).
Also, do not forget that night sweats are also a longstanding symptom of possible TB infection, and other medical conditions. This is a real consideration for many South African women, and your healthcare provider should screen for these conditions if it is indicated.
Hormone replacement therapy (HRT) is one of the most effective treatments for vasomotor symptoms like night sweats.
However, for some women HRT is not suitable. This includes some women with a history of particular types of breast cancer, ovarian cancer, blood clots or with untreated high blood pressure (hypertension). There are now alternative treatment options for women who cannot take HRT.
My Menopause SA
Evidence-based menopause information for South African women.
Page last reviewed: 1 March 2026
Next review due: 1 March 2027