At 38, just experienced hot flashes before period, could this a symptom of starting or near menopause?

hot flashes pre menstruation are quite common at any age due to estrogen levels being at their lowest during the monthly cycle. I started getting the flashes just before my period when I was 28 however I'm now 49 and have only just begun small doses of bio identical hormones for the start of peri menopause. However a malfunctioning thyroid can also cause flashes so you might need to get yourself checked out with a comprehensive blood tests including all hormones and thyroid function.