Research suggests that hot flashes may last long after postmenopause, which starts when you haven’t had a menstrual period for a full year. Some people may experience hot flashes for decades.

Hot flashes are one of the most common menopause symptoms. As estrogen levels decline, they can affect your body’s ability to control its temperature, causing hot flashes that can last for years.

The risk of lasting hot flashes can vary based on personal health and lifestyle factors. If you need help managing hot flashes, talk with a healthcare professional to create a personalized management plan.

Research suggests that hot flashes may last longer than previously thought — in some cases, decades.

Studies included in a 2019 research review have suggested average durations ranging from approximately 5 years to more than 7 years. Some of the studies showed that some people may even continue to experience hot flashes 20 years after menopause.

The duration of hot flashes can vary based on many factors, and it’s impossible to predict exactly how long an individual will experience them. However, understanding the factors that may prolong hot flashes can help you better prepare for them.

Several factors may increase the risk of lasting hot flashes after menopause:

  • Time of onset: Hot flashes that start earlier in the menopausal transition may last longer than hot flashes that start around postmenopause.
  • Race or ethnicity: Hot flashes are more common among people of African descent.
  • Weight: A higher body weight may be associated with more intense or frequent hot flashes.

Lifestyle factors that can increase the risk of perimenopausal hot flashes — such as smoking, psychological stress, or spicy foods — may also continue to affect hot flashes after menopause.

Not all risk factors for hot flashes are changeable. However, you may be able to make them less frequent or intense by:

It may help to track your symptoms to identify possible triggers, such as psychological stress or certain foods.

Getting regular physical activity may also be beneficial, but keep in mind that the risk of osteoporosis (bone weakening) increases after menopause. Aerobic and weight-bearing activities can be good for people with osteoporosis, but try to stick to activities that don’t increase your risk of falls or fractures.

If you need help finding activities that work for you, consider talking with a personal trainer.

Hormone therapy is one of the more effective treatments for hot flashes. However, it may not be suitable for everyone.

Medical professionals typically only recommend hormone therapy for people under 60 or within 10 years of menopause onset. They may also recommend alternative treatments if you have certain risk factors, such as a history of blood clots.

Nonhormonal treatments are also available. For example, your doctor might recommend antidepressants, such as paroxetine (Brisdelle), or a medication called fezolinetant (Veozah).

If you’re continuing to experience hot flashes after menopause and need help managing them, consider talking with a healthcare professional. You can start with a primary care doctor or try consulting an OB/GYN.

The Menopause Society also provides a directory of menopause practitioners who may be able to help.

Before speaking with a healthcare professional, it can be beneficial to note down what you’ve already tried to manage your hot flashes so they can recommend the appropriate next steps. This is where a symptom tracker may also come in handy — your doctor may be able to spot trends or see how well other management methods have worked in the past.

It’s not possible to determine exactly how long hot flashes will last after an individual experiences menopause. However, research suggests that they may last for years, even decades in some cases.

A healthcare professional can help you understand your risk factors, recommend lifestyle changes, and prescribe medications that may help.