Abstract

Sleep disturbance during menopause is a common and important complaint faced by many women. There are many factors that may play a role in this problem including vasomotor symptoms and changing hormone levels, circadian rhythm abnormalities, exacerbation of primary insomnia, mood disorders, co-existent medical conditions, as well as lifestyle factors. Sleep can be measured both objectively and subjectively, however correlation between the two measures is not high. Most of the menopause-related sleep disturbances have been reported as qualitative in nature, however there have also been studies showing changes in objective measures. This discrepancy has implications with regards to evaluation of research in sleep and menopause as well as application in the clinical setting. Investigations of inadequate sleep and sleep problems during the menopausal period and obtaining a thorough understanding of the factors contributing to these problems is essential in formulating treatment strategies. Such strategies can vary from hormonal treatment and medications to lifestyle and behavioral modification.

© 2012 Sydney South West Area Health Service. Journal compilation © 2012 Royal Australasian College of Physicians.