Menopause is a natural process that marks the end of a woman’s reproductive period. It usually occurs in women in their late 40s to early 50s.

During this time, the body undergoes hormonal changes, leading to several symptoms such as hot flashes, sweats, mood swings, vaginal dryness, etc. Hot flashes and sweats are among the most common symptoms, and many women experience them, but there are certain factors that make some women suffer more than others.

In this article, we will discuss why some women suffer more from hot flashes and sweats during menopause.

1. Genetic Factors

Genetic factors play a significant role in determining how a woman’s body reacts to menopause. If a woman’s mother or sister experienced severe hot flashes and sweats during menopause, she is more likely to experience them too.

Women with a family history of early menopause (before age 45) also have a higher risk of experiencing severe hot flashes and sweats.

2. BMI and Body Fat Distribution

Higher body mass index (BMI) and increased fat distribution around the abdomen can increase the risk of hot flashes and sweats during menopause. Fat cells produce estrogen, and when menopause approaches, the ovaries stop producing estrogen.

Hence, the body relies on the stored fat cells for estrogen, leading to hormonal fluctuations and hot flashes and sweats. Women with higher BMI may also have reduced insulin sensitivity, which can affect the body’s ability to regulate temperature and cause hot flashes and sweats.

3. Smoking

Smoking is known to worsen the symptoms of menopause, including hot flashes and sweats. Studies have shown that smokers and former smokers have a higher risk of experiencing hot flashes and sweats during menopause than non-smokers.

Smoking also increases the risk of cardiovascular diseases and osteoporosis during menopause.

4. Ethnicity and Race

Hot flashes and sweats are more common in women of certain races and ethnicities than others. For instance, African-American women have been found to experience more severe hot flashes and sweats, particularly at younger ages, than Caucasian women.

Hispanic and Asian women are less likely to experience hot flashes and sweats during menopause.

5. Medical Conditions

Underlying medical conditions can also affect the severity of hot flashes and sweats during menopause.

Women with a history of breast cancer or those undergoing breast cancer treatment may experience severe hot flashes and sweats due to the hormonal changes caused by the disease and its treatment. Similarly, women with thyroid problems or those on certain medications such as antidepressants and chemotherapy drugs may experience hot flashes and sweats.

6. Stress and Anxiety

Stress and anxiety can worsen the symptoms of menopause, including hot flashes and sweats. Women who experience high levels of stress and anxiety are more likely to experience severe hot flashes and sweats.

Stress can cause hormonal imbalances and increase cortisol levels, leading to an increase in body temperature and hot flashes and sweats.

7. Nutritional Factors

Dietary factors can also affect the severity of hot flashes and sweats during menopause. Foods that are high in sugar or caffeine can trigger hot flashes and sweats.

On the other hand, foods that are rich in phytoestrogens, such as soy-based products, can help reduce the frequency and severity of hot flashes and sweats. Adequate intake of calcium and vitamin D can also reduce the risk of osteoporosis and improve the overall health of women during menopause.

8. Lack of Exercise

Regular exercise can help reduce the severity of hot flashes and sweats during menopause. Women who lead a sedentary lifestyle and do not exercise regularly are more likely to experience severe hot flashes and sweats.

Exercise can help regulate hormonal imbalances, reduce stress, and improve overall health and well-being during menopause.

9. Age at Menopause

The age at which a woman experiences menopause can also affect the severity of hot flashes and sweats.

Women who experience menopause at an early age (before age 40) are more likely to experience severe hot flashes and sweats than those who experience menopause at a later age. Women who undergo surgical menopause (removal of ovaries) also experience more severe symptoms than those who undergo natural menopause.

10. Hormonal Therapy

Hormonal therapy (HT) is a common treatment for menopausal symptoms such as hot flashes and sweats.

However, hormonal therapy is not suitable for all women, and the choice of therapy depends on factors such as age, medical history, and severity of symptoms. Women who undergo hormonal therapy may experience a reduction in the frequency and severity of hot flashes and sweats, but they may also be at an increased risk of breast cancer, blood clots, and stroke.