I am a mother of three, and approaching my 47th birthday. I haven't had a period for five months. Does this mean that I am starting the menopause? Please explain more to me about having hot-flushes at night.

The average age of starting the menopause is 45-55, so you are within the normal age range.

Missing periods is usually one of the first symptoms of the menopause, so it is possible.

I would suggest asking your doctor to test your hormone levels. This will give you a better idea as to what is happening.

In the menopause, some women experience what is called night sweats, and they can feel very hot or sweat, which can wake them up.

Eileen Durward