Hot Flashes & Night Sweats

  I am almost 40 years old, had my uterus and cervix removed ( kept my ovaries) almost 2 years ago.  I have been experiencing hot flashes, night sweats, trouble getting to sleep, forgetfullness, and was told by my gynecologist that my vaginal tissue is very thin and fragile.  I had my FSH tested and it was at 2.  Do you have any ideas as to what my be causing these symptoms?

[Elaine Brown, MD]

Hi!
If you were my patient, I would test your estradiol level, in addition to your prolactin and thyroid levels.  Your FSH is so low that it almost suggests to me that you might have "hypothalamic amenorrhea" (although of course you have amenorrhea because of your hysterectomy.) If your gynecologist isn't able to help your sort out your symptoms, you could consult with an endcrinologist.
Good luck!
Dr B