MENOPAUSE AND SLEEP

TACKLE THE TOSSING AND TURNING THAT’S DISTURBING YOUR SLUMBER

Although most of us know about the mood swings and hot flushes menopause can bring, there’s also another part of your life that can be impacted – struggling to get a good night’s rest.

Gynaecologist and fertility specialist for Flordis Femular, Dr Natasha Andreadis, says many women don’t know that menopause can impact sleep.

“Because your body is going through significant hormonal changes, that can make sleeping more uncomfortable and difficult,” she says.

If you want to crack down on those pesky sleep interruptions, follow Dr Andreadis’ advice.

THE MAIN CULPRITS

If you’ve ever woken up in a puddle of sweat, sheets stuck to you like cling wrap, you’re not alone. Dr Andreadis says most women report difficulty sleeping during perimenopause due to hot flushes or night sweats. “This is when the body is overcome with an intense feeling of heat that can create sweating, chills and increased heart rate,” she says. “This occurs as the hormonal changes impact your body’s ability to temperature regulate, meaning that you can be overcome with intense feelings of warmth that leave you flushed even as you sleep.” Other symptoms that can disturb your sleep include joint pain and restlessness.

HOW LONG WILL IT LAST?

Dr Andreadis says every woman’s experience is different – while some may only have a few nights of sweats, others may experience years of difficult sleep.

“Typically, hot flushes are the most intense in the two to three years leading up to menopause,” she says. “However, it’s important to note that there are ways to combat this so you don’t have to face years of difficult sleep, such as lowering the temperature in your room or placing a cool cloth on your forehead as you sleep.”

SLEEP EASY

“The most important thing to remember is that you don’t have to just put up with your menopausal symptoms and endure years of sleepless nights,” says Dr Andreadis. “There are a range of naturally derived options to help you manage. A great option is the extract Ze 450, which is clinically researched to provide significant relief for menopause symptoms including night sweats.”

Before trying out these methods, always chat to your healthcare professional about your symptoms and the best option for you.