UK
One Sweaty Summer: How To Deal With Night Sweats
If you’re waking up drenched in sweat right now, it’s not just the UK heatwave doing its thing. You could be experiencing hot flashes, those fiery little flashes of hell sent from the depths of hormonal havoc. Add a humid summer night into the mix and boom, your bedroom has been turned into your own personal sauna session.
If you’re perimenopausal, menopausal, or just feeling hotter than usual this summer, we’ve got a full guide to surviving night sweats with your dignity, and sheets intact.
What Actually Are Hot Flashes?
Hot flashes (aka hot flushes) are sudden feelings of intense heat, usually in your face, neck, and chest. They’re often accompanied by a racing heart, flushed skin, and yes, excessive sweating. Night sweats are simply hot flashes that gatecrash your sleep and leave you waking up soggy and irritable.
They’re most commonly linked to the hormonal changes of perimenopause and menopause, but stress, certain medications, and even spicy foods/drinks (RIP Spicy Margs) can also trigger them.
Why Do They Feel Worse in Summer?
When temperatures soar, your body’s already working overtime to keep you cool. Throw in fluctuating oestrogen levels, and your internal thermostat basically starts playing a cruel game of “guess the temperature”.
Hot flashes can feel more frequent, more intense, and more disruptive during heatwaves, which means your summer nights might involve fewer dreamy sunsets and more 3am sheet changes.
Top Tips for Tackling Night Sweats (Without Sleeping in the Fridge)
-
Stick to Breathable Bedding
Ditch the heavy duvet and opt for lightweight, moisture-wicking sheets made from cotton, bamboo, or linen. -
PJs, But Make Them Performance Wear
Think soft, loose, and breathable. Natural fabrics like cotton or moisture-wicking sleepwear are your best mates. Silk might feel fancy, but it clings when sweaty. Not the vibe. -
Cool Your Cave
Fan, open windows, blackout blinds; get creative. A cool bedroom = fewer flash flare-ups. Some swear by a cooling pillow or mattress topper. Others go full ice-pack-between-the-thighs. We don’t judge. -
Limit the Late-Night Wine (Sorry)
Booze, caffeine, and spicy food are all known hot flash triggers. That late-night Pinot might seem like a good idea, but it’s got a sweaty price tag. -
Keep a Cool Flannel or Spray Bottle Nearby
A cold compress or spritz of rose water mid-flash can be a game-changer. Bonus points if it makes you feel like a Regency heroine mid-swoon. -
Stay Hydrated
It’s basic but essential. Sip water throughout the day to keep your body balanced and better able to regulate temperature.
Should I Talk to Someone About It?
Absolutely. If hot flashes or night sweats are seriously messing with your quality of life, chat with your GP. Hormone Replacement Therapy (HRT) or other treatments can help, and everyone deserves to get the sleep they need.
Want More?
-
Try our all-natural supplement Menopause Support designed to help manage perimenopausal, and menopausal symptoms.
-
Is the testosterone debate harming menopausal women? Read more here.
-
Struggling with low libido? Our new natural desire boosting supplement for women, Libido Lift is now available in a 5-pack.
