A hormonal imbalance may provoke a sudden hot flash, rapid heartbeat, and a drenching night sweat that disturbs your sleep and leaves you exhausted throughout the day. Profuse night sweating is also a symptom of certain underlying health condition that require medical help.

This article explains the connection between night sweats and hormones and how to prevent and eliminate this uncomfortable condition.

What Is Hormonal Night Sweating?

Hormonal sweating occurs due to hormonal fluctuations and typically affects women during menopause, PMS, or pregnancy. Lower estrogen levels can provoke night sweats (nocturnal hyperhidrosis), a condition usually accompanied by hot flashes, skin reddening, and chills.

Night sweats can also be a symptom of hypoglycemia, gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD), neurological conditions, anxiety, and even cancer. Consult a healthcare provider to rule out non-hormonal causes and get an adequate treatment.

What Hormone Causes Night Sweats?

Sweating is a healthy body heat regulation mechanism that prevents overheating in hot environments or during physical exertion. The hypothalamus, which controls body temperature, plays a crucial role in this process. However, hormonal changes can disturb the body’s cool-down response and cause night sweats.

The following hormones are responsible for hormonal night sweating:

• Estrogen – When estrogen drops, the hypothalamus becomes more sensitive to slight changes in body temperature. This thermoregulatory center signals the body to produce more sweat due to a perceived threat of overheating.
• Progesterone – Fluctuating progesterone levels can contribute to sudden heat waves, hot flashes, and night sweats. Estrogen and progesterone work together to regulate body temperature; their imbalance can dysregulate the thermoregulatory mechanism.
• Testosterone – Sleep and testosterone are closely linked. Low testosterone levels in men may cause night sweats by tricking the hypothalamus into thinking that the body is overheated and needs cooling.
• Cortisol – Elevated cortisol produces anxiety, increases heart rate, disrupts blood sugar levels, and affects the sleep-wake cycle, leading to more sweating at night.
• Thyroid hormones – Dysfunctional triiodothyronine (T3) and thyroxine (T4) activity can disrupt thermoregulation, producing more body heat and activating sweat glands to secrete more fluid.

Note: Discover 14 symptoms of low estrogen and learn how to increase estrogen levels to reduce night sweating and alleviate accompanying symptoms.

When Do Hormone-Triggered Night Sweats Occur?

Hormone-induced night sweats are common during sudden or significant hormonal changes. Managing each condition can alleviate the discomfort and minimize potential complications.

Premenstrual Syndrome (PMS) or Premenstrual Dysphoric Disorder (PMDD)

Estrogen levels peak during the mid-follicular and mid-luteal phase, dropping right before menstruation starts. Over 90% of women will experience premenstrual symptoms during the second stage of the luteal phase when both progesterone and estrogen levels decrease. Common PMS symptoms include bloating, headaches, moodiness, and occasionally excessive sweating.

Premenstrual dysphoric disorder (PMDD) affects up to 5% of women during their reproductive years. PMDD requires medical assistance and is characterized by severe PMS-like health issues. It has also been linked to night sweats.

Pregnancy and the Postpartum Period

Increased sweating is common during pregnancy, especially during the first trimester (weeks 1 to 14) and the third trimester (weeks 27 to childbirth). The body fails to achieve an optimal temperature due to fluctuating hormones, increased blood flow, or thyroid issues.

Postpartum night sweats are also common and typically subside within a few weeks. They are triggered by the sudden drop in estrogen levels immediately after delivery.

Perimenopause and Menopause

During perimenopause, the ovaries start producing less estrogen, progesterone, and testosterone. Women may experience a range of symptoms, such as irregular periods, hot flashes, and night sweats. As the body slowly transitions out of its reproductive years and enters into menopause, the hypothalamus begins to have difficulties maintaining optimal body temperature, resulting in heat waves and increased sweating.

Note: Learn about the difference between perimenopause and premenopause.

Primary Ovarian Insufficiency (POI)

Primary ovarian insufficiency (POI), also known as primary ovarian failure, is a rare medical condition that affects pre-menopausal women, causing ovaries to stop making eggs before the age of forty. POI leads to premature menopause and infertility. It is accompanied by symptoms such as vaginal dryness, sleep issues, anxiety, hot flashes, and night sweats often accompany it.

Thyroid Disorders

Drenching night sweats may also signal an underlying problem with the thyroid gland. Thyroid hormones T3 and T4 affect thermoregulation by influencing the basal metabolic rate on a cellular level.

Hyperthyroidism (an overactive thyroid) is typically associated with heat intolerance, clamminess, and excessive sweating caused by increased body heat.

Hypothyroidism (an underactive thyroid) usually decreases sweating and increases cold sensitivity. However, patients may also sweat more due to the difficulty their body has regulating temperature or as a side effect of hypothyroidism medication (levothyroxine).

Note: Night sweats can also be caused by a host of other disorders that aren’t linked directly to a hormonal imbalance so make sure you speak to your physician, who will perform the necessary tests to pinpoint the cause of this uncomfortable condition.

Can I Prevent Hormonal Night Sweats?

You can try the following preventive measures to reduce sweating at night.

• Optimize bedroom temperature to 65 degrees Fahrenheit (18.3 degrees Celsius).
• Open a window for a gentle breeze and more fresh air.
• Run an air conditioner or a fan during the night.
• Avoid heavy bedding made of synthetics or other artificial materials; use lightweight bedding made of natural fibers, such as cotton or linen.
• Keep cold water, a cooling pad, or a cooling spray by your bed.
• Invest in cooling mattress pads and toppers or cooler pillows.
• Wear breathable, loose-fitting nightwear made of natural materials.
• Drink plenty of water throughout the day to stay hydrated.
• Eat a light dinner to minimize symptoms like bloating, gas, or heavy perspiration.
• Avoid eating spicy or fatty food to prevent indigestion, heartburn, or sweating.
• Avoid drinking alcohol as it may widen your blood vessels and activate the sweat glands.
• Avoid smoking cigarettes as they may disrupt body temperature regulation.
• Do not consume caffeinated beverages such as coffee, soda, or energy drinks.
• Do not exercise late in the afternoon or in the evening to lower your body temperature.
• Maintain a healthy weight, as being overweight may contribute to excess sweating.
• Engage in relaxing, stress-relieving activities before bed, such as deep breathing exercises, meditation, or a massage.

Note: Learn about the connection between stress and hormones and discover more actionable ways to destress.

How Do I Get Rid of Hormonal Night Sweats?

Treatment for hormonal night sweats varies depending on the underlying cause or medical condition. Discuss your options with a healthcare provider before making any changes.

The doctor will discuss your medical record, perform a physical examination, and run a hormone test to determine the root cause and ensure the appropriate treatment.

Hormone Replacement Therapy (HRT)

Hormone replacement therapy (HRT) addresses hormonal imbalance and alleviates uncomfortable symptoms like nighttime sweating. HRT involves the use of medication to replace deficient hormones, such as estrogen, progesterone, and testosterone.

Bioidentical hormone replacement therapy (BHRT) includes the use of bioidentical hormones, whose molecular structure is identical to naturally occurring human hormones. These plant-derived hormones effectively reduce hot flashes and night sweats alongside other symptoms, such as brain fog, low sex drive, and insomnia.

Testosterone therapy (TRT) restores depleted testosterone to optimal levels, providing numerous health benefits for both men and women. It helps mitigate symptoms of male hypogonadism and relieves menopausal symptoms. Testosterone is used off-label to increase energy, improve sex drive, and aid in weight loss.

Non-Hormonal Medication

The following non-hormonal medication has also been found to relieve night sweats:

• Antiperspirants - Research shows the effectiveness of agaric acid, belladonna tincture, and salvia extract in treating heavy sweating at night.
• Anticonvulsants – Antiseizure drugs such as gabapentin or pregabalin help stabilize the nervous system and affect the neurotransmitters in the brain that regulate body temperature.
• Antidepressants – Low-dose Brisdelle® (paroxetine), a selective serotonin-reuptake inhibitor (SSRI), is FDA-approved to treat hot flashes and night sweats. Serotonin-norepinephrine-reuptake inhibitors (SNRIs) can also help control body heat.
• Clonidine – Treats blood pressure, anxiety, and attention deficit hyperactivity disorder; studies also confirm its effectiveness in reducing flushing and sweating.
• Megestrol – This medication is used to increase appetite, reverse weight loss, and treat breast and uterine cancers. Scientific research indicates its effectiveness in reducing hot flashes in both men and women.
• Oxybutynin – This medication treats urinary conditions, such as incontinence (loss of bladder control), but researches show its positive impact on severe night sweating.
• Diindolylmethane (DIM) supplements - This supplement contains compounds found naturally in cruciferous vegetables and has been shown to reduce hormone-related symptoms, including acne, hot flashes, and night sweats.
• Sleep-supporting supplements – Hormone-balancing supplements contain natural, soothing ingredients that calm the nervous system, reduce sensory overstimulation, and foster deep relaxation.

Natural and Herbal Remedies

Natural remedies can relieve symptoms of menopausal discomfort, such as mood swings, hot flashes, and heavy sweating. The following herbal cures can effectively manage symptoms and are a popular alternative to pharmaceuticals:

• Red clover
• Anise
• Black cohosh
• Vitamin E
• Vitamin B12
• Curcumin
• Sage
• Ginseng
• Dong quai (female ginseng)
• Fenugreek
• Evening primrose oil
• Maca root
• Kava
• Valerian
• Chasteberry
• Phytoestrogens (e.g., soy, flax seeds)

Use these products with caution and with your doctor’s approval to avoid risks and health complications. Natural remedies are not as tightly regulated as prescription drugs and may provoke adverse effects. Some natural supplements should be avoided during hormone therapy (e.g., red clover).

Lifestyle Modifications

Small adjustments in your daily habits can significantly impact sleep quality, reduce night sweating, and improve overall comfort. Practice each habit consistently to ensure faster and more durable results.

• Exercise regularly – Moderate physical activity reduces cortisol levels and helps regulate body temperature to minimize night sweats. Avoid strenuous or high-impact exercise before bed, as it can temporarily elevate body temperature.
• Maintain a regular sleep schedule – Consistent bedtime stabilizes your internal “clock” and allows your body to relax and restore fully. Getting enough sleep harmonizes hormone activity and reduces potential side effects.
• Engage in calming activities – Stress-relief hobbies and activities can induce melatonin production necessary for restorative sleep. Calming exercises like deep breathing, yoga, or tai chi can help your body wind down.
• Dietary adjustments – Light, nutritious meals before bed promote better sleep and alleviate uncomfortable symptoms, including night sweats. Fatty fish, nuts, oatmeal, kiwi, turkey, and chamomile tea enhance sleep quality and duration.

Note: Learn how to lower cortisol levels with 7 natural strategies.

How Long Do Hormonal Night Sweats Last?

Hormonal night sweats vary widely in frequency, intensity, and duration depending on the cause, symptoms, and other factors (e.g., stress levels and environmental conditions). They can occur sporadically or consistently throughout the entire hormonal shift.

Menopausal women may experience several sweating incidents per night that last a few moments up to fifteen minutes.

Sweats can last a few days, weeks, months, or several years during post-menopause. PMS-triggered sweats usually subside after several days, while pregnancy-related perspiration may stretch for weeks.

When Should I Be Worried About Night Sweats?

Night sweats are not a cause for concern as they usually subside over time. However, they may be a symptom of a more severe health condition (e.g., an infection, diabetes, or cancer) or a side effect of a medicine.

Schedule a visit with a healthcare provider if you experience persistent night sweats that interrupt your sleep or if you notice any of the following:

• High fever
• Cough
• Unexplained weight loss
• Body aches
• Diarrhea

Conclusion

Excessive nighttime sweating can be a sign of different hormonal imbalances. Prevention, proper diagnosis, and timely treatments help you restore balance and stop the sweats that leave you soaking wet in the middle of the night.

Learn more about hormone therapy at Vibrant Vitality Clinic and schedule a visit to get a tailored treatment for your health concern.