Article

Sleep and Hormones

Sleep and hormones are closely linked, especially in women. Hormonal fluctuations across the menstrual cycle, pregnancy, and menopause can significantly impact sleep patterns, quality, and the risk of sleep disorders. Hormones also influence circadian rhythms, sleep architecture, and the risk of specific sleep disorders such as insomnia, sleep apnea, and restless legs syndrome.

Key Hormones Affecting Sleep

Estrogen: Promotes REM sleep and helps regulate circadian rhythms. Fluctuations can cause insomnia, especially before menstruation and during menopause. Estrogen also affects serotonin and melatonin production.
Progesterone: Has sedative effects and can promote sleep, but levels drop before menstruation and after menopause, contributing to sleep disturbances and increased risk of sleep apnea.
Melatonin: The primary hormone regulating sleep-wake cycles. Its production can be affected by age, light exposure, and hormonal changes. Melatonin supplements may help with circadian rhythm disorders.
Cortisol: The stress hormone, which can disrupt sleep if elevated at night. Chronic stress and high cortisol are linked to insomnia and poor sleep quality.

Menstrual Cycle

Many women experience poorer sleep quality and more insomnia symptoms in the days before menstruation due to hormonal changes. PMS and PMDD can further worsen sleep.

Pregnancy

Increased progesterone can cause daytime sleepiness, while physical discomfort and frequent urination can disrupt sleep, especially in the third trimester. Restless legs syndrome and sleep apnea are more common in pregnancy.

Menopause

Declining estrogen and progesterone levels are linked to increased insomnia, night sweats, and sleep apnea risk. Hot flashes and mood changes can further disrupt sleep.

Other Hormonal Conditions