TREATMENT FOR SLEEP PROBLEMS

Some women experience changes in sleep patterns in perimenopause and menopause. One factor can be changing hormone levels. Sleep disturbances can be caused by factors that affect many women beginning at midlife such as sleep apnea, restless leg syndrome, stress, anxiety, depression or painful chronic illnesses.

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Sleep is essential to both our healthy and to feeling well. Start with good sleep hygiene:  cut back on caffeine and alcohol, exercise at least 30 minutes during each day, go to bed at the same time every night, waking at the same time in the morning. Sleeping in a cool room with cotton clothing is also helpful. 

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If you are risk for obstructive sleep apnea, you may need evaluation for this. 

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If you are struggling with insomnia, you may benefit from cognitive behavior therapy. Cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) is a method of working with your thought patterns and can be used to help with sleep problems. This can be done one-on-one or in a small group. 

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If your sleep disorder is related to hot flashes and night sweats, then hormone therapy is likely to improve your sleep.