Can Menopause Cause Nausea?

Perimenopause is a natural and unique stage of transition that every woman experiences. As your hormone patterns shift, you may notice changes in your cycle and new symptoms emerging.

You might be wondering:

• Can menopause cause nausea?

• Does perimenopause cause nausea?

• And is this normal?

These questions are completely valid. In this article, we’ll explore how menopause and nausea can be connected, what these experiences might mean, and ways you can manage them with confidence and care — so you can navigate this stage with more understanding and comfort.

Can Menopause Cause Nausea?

Menopause is a natural milestone that typically occurs between the ages of 45 and 55, though it can sometimes happen earlier due to surgery or certain treatments. It marks the end of menstrual cycles and the beginning of a new chapter in your reproductive health.

Perimenopause is the stage leading up to menopause. During this time, you may still have periods, but your hormones fluctuate more noticeably, which can bring on common symptoms like hot flashes, changes in mood, brain fog, and shifts in your body’s energy and appearance.

While menopause nausea isn’t usually thought of as a hallmark symptom, some people do experience it during perimenopause or menopause. These changes are unique to each body, and understanding the possible connections can help you feel more in tune with what’s happening and find strategies that work for you.

Is Nausea a Symptom of Menopause?

Nausea isn’t usually considered one of the hallmark signs of menopause, but for some people, it can show up during this transition. Just like every period is unique, the experience of menopause can look different for each woman.

Some describe it as a kind of “menopause morning sickness.” In some cases, it may be directly tied to hormonal changes, while in others, it could be a response to related symptoms or treatments. For example:

• Hormonal fluctuations that affect your digestive system and overall sense of balance.

• Other menopause symptoms, such as hot flashes or heightened anxiety, may leave you feeling queasy.

• Side effects of treatments, including hormone replacement therapy (HRT) or certain medications.

By understanding these possible connections, you can begin to piece together what might be behind your symptoms and explore supportive strategies for relief.

4 Ways Menopause Can Cause Nausea

1. Hormonal Fluctuations

During the menopause transition, levels of estrogen and progesterone naturally decline. These changes are closely linked to symptoms like hot flashes, mood shifts, and anxiety. They can also influence your digestive system, since stress-related hormones like cortisol affect gut health — sometimes leading to bloating, discomfort, or even nausea.

It’s completely normal for these shifts to have an impact on how you feel. One empowering step you can take is to track your hormone patterns. By noticing how your symptoms line up with changes in your hormones, you can gain clarity about what’s happening in your body.

This is why we designed Mira’s Menopause Transition Kit, which allows you to track key hormone shifts, including LH, E3G, PdG, and FSH. It also syncs automatically to the Mira App, which you can switch to the Menopause Transitions Mode for even more tailored results and guidance on what’s going on inside your body.

2. Hot Flashes and Night Sweats

Your nervous system is designed to keep your body in balance, adjusting your temperature as needed. During menopause, shifts in estrogen can make this system more sensitive, which is why hot flashes and night sweats are common. Understanding these changes can help you approach them with patience and compassion for your body, knowing they are a natural part of this transition.

Hot flashes are sudden feelings of heat that tend to leave as swiftly as they arrive, and can bring their own side effects, such as: 

• Dizziness

• Queasiness

• Anxiety

• Heart palpitations

For some, these intense shifts can bring on feelings of low estrogen nausea. It isn’t the low estrogen itself that directly causes nausea, but rather the chain reaction of symptoms — like overheating, dizziness, and anxiety — that may leave you feeling unsettled.

3. Medication Side Effects (Especially HRT & Antidepressants)

Many medications can cause nausea, and during menopause, it can sometimes be tricky to tell whether queasiness is a side effect of treatment or a symptom of the transition itself. For example, oral hormone replacement therapy (HRT), certain antidepressants like SSRIs, and even newer treatments such as Veozah may contribute to nausea. This may be connected to gut and stomach sensitivity, shifts in serotonin, or how your liver processes the medication.

Every body responds differently, and in many cases, these side effects improve within a few months. Tracking when your nausea began and how it changes over time can help you and your doctor see patterns more clearly.

If nausea continues to affect your daily life, consider speaking with your healthcare provider. They may suggest adjusting your dose, switching medications, or exploring alternatives that feel gentler on your system.

4. Stress and Anxiety

Fluctuating estrogen levels during perimenopause and menopause can influence neurotransmitters like serotonin, which may contribute to feelings of anxiety. At the same time, higher cortisol — the body’s stress hormone — can affect digestion and sometimes lead to symptoms such as:

• Nausea

• Loss of appetite

• Stomach cramps

• Changes in bowel habits

For some, nausea may appear alongside hot flashes, mood shifts, or trouble sleeping — all common experiences during this transition.

The good news is that there are ways to support your body and mind during this time. Therapy, certain medications like SSRIs, and lifestyle strategies — including stress management techniques, gentle movement, and mindful routines — can all help make this stage of life more comfortable and balanced.

How to Treat Nausea During Menopause

Lifestyle and Dietary Adjustments

Small changes in lifestyle and diet can make a noticeable difference in how your body feels. Paying attention to what you eat, when you eat, and how you move can help support your digestive system and overall balance.

Some foods may trigger discomfort, while others can be soothing or nourishing. Below, we’ve outlined key types of foods to consider avoiding and others that may help reduce nausea during this transition.

A soothing herbal tea, like the Mira Fertility Tea, can help support digestion, ease feelings of nausea, and promote relaxation. Paired with mindful dietary choices, it can be a simple and comforting way to support your body during this transition.

Managing Hot Flashes to Reduce Nausea

Hot flashes are a normal part of the menopause journey, and for some people, they can bring on feelings of nausea. Learning ways to manage them can help you feel more at ease, supported, and in control of your body during this transition.

Here are some top tips for managing hot flashes:

• Dressing in layers and keeping your environment cool

• Using fans or ice packs for relief

• Identifying and minimizing personal triggers, such as stress, heat, or spicy foods

• Trying stress-reduction practices like meditation, gentle yoga, or walks

Everyone is different, so try out different options and see what works best for you. You could also reach out to us in our Hormone Health Clinic for Fertility, which provides personalized support to manage hormone transitions. This is particularly helpful for menopausal or perimenopausal women experiencing multiple menopause symptoms (nausea, anxiety, cycle changes), who may need guidance on non-pharma approaches.

Supplements and Natural Estrogen Boosters

Some people explore supplements or natural estrogen-supporting foods to help ease nausea in menopause. Options often mentioned include ginger, peppermint, soy, flaxseed, sesame, B vitamins, and vitamin D, all of which can be a healthy part of a balanced diet.

While some women notice relief from these approaches, current research on their effectiveness for nausea specifically is still limited. These strategies are generally safe and supportive, but results can vary from person to person.

If you’re looking for more science-backed approaches to managing nausea, keep reading for strategies that have been shown to provide reliable support during menopause.

Medication Options for Severe Nausea

Over-the-Counter Antiemetics

Over-the-counter (OTC) medications are accessible and usually quite affordable as a means to relieve pain and other feelings of discomfort. Certain antiemetics, such as Pepto Bismol and Dramamine, for example, have been formulated by experts to help relieve feelings of nausea with ease, whether you’re at home or on the go.

Prescription Medications

If OTC options aren’t providing the relief you need, you could explore prescription medications with your doctor. 

Zofran, Reglan, and Promethazine are all effective options for menopause and perimenopause nausea relief, although they may bring some side effects, such as diarrhea, dizziness, or fatigue. Talk through your options with your doctor so they can prescribe the most appropriate medication for your needs.

When HRT Helps (or Hurts)

Hormone Replacement Therapy (HRT) or Menopausal Replacement Therapy (MRT) may reduce nausea, but it may also cause it, especially during the adjustment phase when you first begin. To see whether this is the right fit for you, we recommend a three-month trial with HRT to help figure out whether it’s a suitable option for nausea relief.

It’s important to review symptoms and treatment options with your doctor to ensure the best fit for your specific needs.

When to See a Doctor About Menopause Nausea

For many people, occasional nausea during menopause is mild and manageable, especially with lifestyle strategies, dietary adjustments, or supportive treatments. However, it’s always wise to be mindful of your body and seek guidance when needed.

Consider reaching out to your healthcare provider if your nausea:

• Lasts longer than a week

• Interferes with your daily activities

• Comes with other concerning symptoms such as chest pain, dizziness, severe headache, or vomiting blood

Being aware of the signs listed below helps ensure that any underlying issues are addressed promptly. Your doctor can help distinguish typical menopause-related symptoms from other conditions and guide you toward the most effective, safe strategies for relief.

If you notice any of these warning signs alongside your nausea, trust yourself and reach out to your doctor — or, in urgent situations, contact emergency services. Paying attention to your body and seeking support when needed is a powerful way to take charge of your health and navigate this transition with confidence and care.

Final Takeaway: Navigating Nausea During Menopause

Experiencing nausea during menopause can feel unsettling, but it’s important to remember that your body is simply adjusting to natural changes. While nausea isn’t the most common symptom, it can occur alongside hot flashes, hormonal shifts, or other menopause-related experiences — and that’s perfectly normal.

Tracking your symptoms with data backed tools, such as the Mira Menopause Transition Kit and Mira App (when used in the Menopause Transitions mode), can give you clarity and confidence. By observing patterns and understanding your body’s signals, you can take proactive steps to support your wellbeing and feel more in control. These insights can also be valuable when discussing your symptoms with your healthcare provider.

The Menopause Transition Kit is designed to give tailored insights into perimenopause and menopause, helping you monitor hormone levels, understand your symptom patterns, and take actionable steps toward supporting your wellbeing.

Often, simple lifestyle and dietary adjustments can make a meaningful difference in easing nausea, menopause, and perimenopause. And if you ever need extra support, your healthcare provider can help you explore strategies tailored to you, empowering you to navigate this transition with confidence, comfort, and ease.

Frequently Asked Questions

Does menopause cause bloating and acid reflux?

Bloating and acid reflux aren’t typically direct symptoms, but they can be brought about by shifting hormones, slower digestion, and disrupted sleep caused by menopause.

Can hot flashes cause nausea?

Although it is uncommon, hot flashes may cause nausea. This can be because they’re often linked to changes in serotonin and heart palpitations and anxiety, all of which can add to feelings of queasiness and nausea.