I can only attribute my lack of a lot of what the others are saying as being on anti-depressants during menopause. I had only minor hot flashes, and a problem with early morning waking for about 2 years. That was it. My mother had a horrible menopause and I was bracing for a similar one but it never happened. Everyone is different but I do believe for me it was the anti-depressant Paxil.
On the other hand, my sister is over 60 and STILL getting hot flashes!!!! She's always warm, I'm always cold!
Good luck honey!! You'll get through it!! :D