If you have ever felt your heart flutter, race, or skip a beat – and you’re going through perimenopause or menopause – you’re not imagining things. Palpitations are a real and surprisingly common symptom during this hormonal transition.

So what are they and why do they happen?

What Are Palpitations?

Palpitations are sensations where you become acutely aware of your heartbeat. You might feel like your heart is pounding, fluttering, beating too fast, or even skipping a beat. While they can be alarming, in most cases, they’re harmless—especially when linked to hormonal changes during menopause.

Why Do Palpitations Happen Around Menopause?

As you move through perimenopause and menopause, your body experiences significant shifts in hormone levels—especially oestrogen and progesterone. These hormones don’t just regulate your reproductive system; they also influence your brain, cardiovascular and nervous systems.

  • Oestrogen and the heart: Oestrogen plays a protective role in cardiovascular health, helping keep blood vessels flexible and influencing how your heart reacts to adrenaline. As oestrogen levels drop, your body becomes more reactive to stress hormones, which can trigger palpitations.
  • Hot flushes and anxiety: Palpitations often accompany hot flushes and feelings of anxiety, both of which are common during menopause. A sudden adrenaline surge during a flush or anxious moment can cause your heart to pound or flutter.
  • Lifestyle triggers: Caffeine, alcohol, lack of sleep, dehydration, and high stress levels can also contribute—especially when your body is already more sensitive due to hormonal fluctuations.

When Should You Worry?

Most palpitations during menopause are harmless. However, if you experience any of the following, it’s important to seek medical advice:

  • Chest pain or tightness
  • Dizziness or fainting
  • Shortness of breath
  • A history of heart disease

Your doctor might suggest tests like an ECG or Holter monitor to rule out arrhythmias or other heart conditions. Visit the Heart Foundation Australia to learn more.

How to Manage Menopausal Palpitations

The good news is, there are several evidence-based ways to manage palpitations and ease the discomfort:

Lifestyle Adjustments

Cut back on caffeine and alcohol, especially in the afternoon and evening.

Prioritise sleep and establish a calming bedtime routine.

Stay hydrated and eat balanced meals to support your nervous system.

Mind-Body Techniques

Deep breathing, yoga, and meditation can help reduce stress hormones and calm your heart rate. Smiling Mind is a great Australian mindfulness app for daily support.

Regular gentle exercise like walking or swimming can improve cardiovascular health and reduce anxiety.

Menopause Hormone Therapy (MHT)

For some women, MHT may reduce palpitations by stabilising fluctuating oestrogen levels. Find out more here: “Why not taking MHT could kill you” 

Natural Therapies

Some women find relief through magnesium or B-vitamin supplements, or herbs like black cohosh—but always consult your doctor before starting supplements.

Palpitations can feel unsettling, but they’re usually a normal response to hormonal changes. If unsure, check in with your GP or book in with one of our menopause specialists.

What is WellFemme About?

If you can’t find the professional help you need for your menopause or perimenopausal symptoms then book a Telehealth consultation with an expert WellFemme menopause doctor.

WellFemme is Australia’s first dedicated Telehealth menopause clinic, servicing locations nationwide including: Melbourne, Sydney, Adelaide, Darwin, Perth, Hobart, Brisbane, Dubbo, Bendigo, Broken Hill, Broome, Alice Springs, Launceston, Cairns, Mildura, Lightning Ridge, Kalgoorlie, Albany, Toowoomba, Charleville, Port Headland, Katherine, Ballarat, Coober Pedy, Bourke, Albury… and your place!