The menstrual cycle of healthy women is characterised by cyclic changes in the production of estradiol, progesterone, luteinizing, follicle-stimulating, prolactin, and growth hormone.

Reproductive hormones not only regulate reproductive function during the menstrual cycle but also influence sleep and circadian rhythms.

It is common to experience sleep disturbances in that premenstrual week due to the declining levels of estrogen and progesterone.

Research has shown that women report more sleep difficulties and are at greater risk for insomnia diagnosis than men.

There was a poll done by the National Sleep Foundation’s 2007 , 25% of perimenopausal women and 30% of postmenopausal women reported getting a good night’s sleep only a few nights per month or less!

As you may or may not be aware, Common complaints of menopausal women include hot flashes, night sweats, insomnia, mood changes, fatigue, and excessive daytime sleepiness. In the 2005 report on menopause-related symptoms, sleep disturbance was identified as a core symptom of menopause!

The Study of Women’s Health Across the Nation (SWAN) has shown that difficulty sleeping is reported by 38% of women between 40 and 55 years of age.

So now we know hormones play a role in our sleep quality, what can we do?

Aside from ensuring you are implementing lifestyle factors like reducing stimulants and caffeine 8hrs before sleep, exercising, eating well, managing stress, and keeping consistent bedtime routines.

There are other options like HRT, sedatives, and CBT that can assist, and it's worth talking with your GP to find the best solution for you to help improve your quality of life.

With all menopause-related symptoms, there is help out there for you!  

And the Australasian Menopause Society is a great place to start. https://www.menopause.org.au/