Are these hot flushes or am I just ill?

[Whattheflush]

So I have had the cold from hell that is going around for the last two weeks. And last week I started getting hot flushes which came and went in seconds and probably 5/6 per hour or more? Literally overnight. No night sweats. But I'm 45 and my periods have been a bit erratic for a while. My poor old lady bits are a bit desiccated though and have been for a while.

My job is IMMENSELY stressful right now and I'm incredibly run down health wise, plus I have a preschooler. I really don't want to go to the GP and have to fight at all, I just don't have the energy. Is this how your menopause started? Or is it covid/flu/whatever?

And if so, is there a private specialist that anyone would recommend?

I'd not rule out getting help from your GP. Not everyone has a battle.

It does sound like hot flushes. And you've got the vulva/ vaginal stuff going on too.

If you want to find a specialist it depends on what level of input you want- some private GPs have set up as meno 'specialists', or there are consultant gynaecologists, but you have to read their bios and see if they specialise in menopause.

Google for your location and take it from there? Start with your local private hospitals if there are any.
Depends where you live - there are dozens in cities like London but if you're out in the sticks you might have less choice. Many do video appts now but it depends if you want that.

I'm in London. I'll have a look at the local private hospital, good shout. I never understood how uncomfortable and horrible menopause was before but my gosh, this is awful!

@Whattheflush Almost all the 'top' private hospitals in London have consultants who deal with menopause.