SLEEP THROUGH THE MENOPAUSE
There’s no doubt that the menopause causes sleep disruption, and we mustn’t forget that sleep deprivation is actually a form of torture...
Is it any wonder therefore, that menopausal women have a host of symptoms which they carry around with them day after day, whilst trying to give the impression that they are just fine.
Many women will have suffered sleep deprivation while caring for their babies, noisy snoring partners, teenagers not coming home til the early hours, and even the worry of ageing, poorly parents.
The list can go on and on depending on your personal circumstances.
It's easy to think: "Get the problems sorted, and i'll start sleeping and feeling better."
Simple.
Well, maybe not if you are menopausal...(peri and postmenopausal).
It’s your ovaries... They begin producing lower amounts of key hormones, estrogen and progesterone. As these hormone levels fall, symptoms of menopause surge. One such symptom is INSOMNIA.
Insomnia due to menopause may make you feel extra anxious, irritable, stressed, unable to focus, sleepy throughout the day and dreading the next night's battle ahead.
Those night sweats... the anxiety of waking your partner as you throw covers off then open and close windows.
YOU CAN FEEL QUITE WRETCHED!
Often these symptoms will go on longer than you would like...Your GP is on hand! Discuss your health with them long before you collapse in a heap.
In the meantime some sensible and helpful ideas are:
Keep your bedroom cool and dark and use lightweight bedding.
Refrain from having a large meal and alcohol right before going to bed.
Try a relaxation exercise or meditation before retiring, to get your mind into a peaceful and uncluttered state...
The following suggestions are from our experiences of menopause:
HRT - discuss with your GP......It could be a life changer.
SINGLE BEDS - This arrangement can be temporary. It gives you your own space to thrash around in until sleep improves. It will one day ....
YOUR OWN ROOM - Can also be a temporary arrangement.
A FAN BY THE BED - Take care if you have long hair!
AIR CONDITIONING- Pricey option...but works a treat.
We hope anyone reading this and suffering from insomnia due to menopause will find the help they so richly deserve. Don't delay in reaching out for help and advice...
YOU’RE ALWAYS GIVING THE BEST OF YOURSELF TO OTHERS... NOW IS THE TIME TO FIND THE VERY BEST OF HELP FOR YOURSELF... WHATEVER IT TAKES.
Remember if you need extra support and guidance through the menopause sign up to our mailing list and …
Please don't suffer through the menopause alone. Millions of women are feeling the same way.
Spirit love and strength,
Dr. Clare & Sara x