According to the N.A. Menopause Society; The most common menopause-related discomfort is the hot flash (sometimes called a hot flush). Hot flashes are thought to be the result of changes in the hypothalamus, the part of the brain that regulates the body’s temperature. If the hypothalamus mistakenly senses that a woman is too warm, it starts a chain of events to cool her down. Blood vessels near the surface of the skin begin to dilate (enlarge), increasing blood flow to the surface in an attempt to dissipate body heat. This produces a red, flushed look to the face and neck in light-skinned women. It may also make a woman perspire to cool the body down. The heart may beat faster, and women may sense that rapid heartbeat.  A cold chill often follows a hot flash. A few women experience only the chill.

Maintaining healthy weight

Although menopause does not cause weight gain, there is evidence that weight gain can increase the severity of vasomotor symptoms (VMS) Menopausal symptoms. One study of 40 overweight/obese women showed that a 10% weight loss resulted in significant improvement in hot flushes, with a correlation between weight loss and reduction in hot flush frequency. The hormonal changes of menopause might make you more likely to gain weight around your abdomen than around your hips and thighs. But, hormonal changes alone don't necessarily cause menopause weight gain. Instead, the weight gain is usually related to aging, as well as lifestyle and genetic factors. Other factors, such as a lack of exercise, unhealthy eating and not enough sleep, might contribute to menopause weight gain. When people don't get enough sleep, they tend to snack more and consume more calories.

Mood can be affected by many things, from an argument with a loved one to a traffic jam. It’s not always clear what causes mood swings and the irritability that often accompanies them. Mood swings also differ from depression, which is not typically linked to menopause.

Menopause and perimenopause can create physical challenges that may negatively affect mood. These include trouble sleeping and issues with sex. Many women also experience anxiety about aging and stress about the future, which can cause upset and mood swings.

Many women complain of disturbed sleep during the peri-menopause and after menopause. Complaints about poor sleep include difficulty falling and staying asleep, coupled with early morning and nocturnal awakenings. Some of the contributing factors could be, changing hormone levels, Vasomotor symptoms, i.e. sweating, flushing, mood disorders or anxiety.