How Hormonal Changes During Menopause Can Affect Sleep October 1, 2026 How Hormonal Changes During Menopause Can Affect Sleep If sleep suddenly feels harder to come by during menopause, you are far from alone. Around 40 to 60% of women experience sleep disturbances during perimenopause and post-menopause.1 This might mean struggling to fall asleep, waking repeatedly throughout the night or finding yourself wide awake much earlier than planned. Hormonal changes are an important part of the picture, but they can affect sleep in several different ways. Why do hormonal changes affect sleep? During the menopause transition, levels of hormones such as oestrogen and progesterone change. These hormones are involved in more than reproduction. Changes in their levels can influence processes that are closely connected with sleep, including temperature regulation and the sleep-wake cycle.2 As a result, sleep can become lighter or more fragmented. Some women may find themselves waking frequently, while others develop ongoing difficulty falling or staying asleep. Hot flushes and night sweats Hot flushes and night sweats are among the most recognisable symptoms of menopause, and they can make getting a good night's sleep particularly challenging. Changes in oestrogen are thought to affect the body's ability to regulate temperature. At night, this can lead to sudden sensations of heat and sweating that interrupt sleep. Interestingly, research suggests that women can actually wake just before a hot flush occurs.2 This means the hormonal and neurological processes behind the hot flush may contribute to the awakening, rather than the heat simply waking you up. Keeping the bedroom cool, using a fan and choosing lightweight cotton sheets or easily removable layers may help make these episodes more comfortable. It might not just be menopause While hormonal changes can certainly affect sleep, it is important not to assume that every sleep problem is simply part of menopause. The risk of sleep disorders such as obstructive sleep apnea and restless legs syndrome can also increase around this stage of life.2 Sleep apnea in women can sometimes present with less obvious symptoms and may even look like insomnia.2 Ageing, anxiety, changing circadian rhythms and everyday pressures such as work, finances and caring responsibilities can also contribute to poor sleep.2 What can help you sleep better? Treatment depends on what is disrupting your sleep. Cognitive behavioural therapy for insomnia (CBT-I) and mindfulness training have been shown to improve sleep during the menopause transition.2 Regular exercise, consistent sleep and wake times and creating a cool, comfortable sleep environment may also help. For some women, menopausal hormone therapy (MHT) may improve sleep quality, particularly when hot flushes and night sweats are contributing to disrupted sleep.2 Your doctor can help determine whether this or another treatment is appropriate for you. If poor sleep is becoming persistent, affecting how you feel during the day, or accompanied by symptoms such as loud snoring, gasping during sleep or uncomfortable sensations in your legs, speak with your GP or a sleep health professional. You do not have to simply put up with poor sleep during menopause. Identifying what is keeping you awake is the first step towards getting the right support. How Sove CPAP Clinic Can Help If menopause is affecting your sleep, understanding what is causing the disruption can help you find the right support. While symptoms such as hot flushes and night sweats may contribute to poor sleep, conditions such as insomnia and obstructive sleep apnea can also become more common during this stage of life. Founded in 2008, Sove CPAP Clinic is a leading provider of respiratory and sleep services in Australia, with over 100 clinics nationwide. Our team of sleep and respiratory clinicians and treatment consultants can help investigate sleep concerns that may be contributing to persistent tiredness, frequent waking or difficulty getting a restful night's sleep. Where appropriate, we offer bulk-billed home sleep studies for eligible patients and can help guide you towards personalised treatment options based on your individual needs and results. If you’re regularly struggling with poor sleep, waking unrefreshed or experiencing symptoms such as snoring or daytime fatigue, call our friendly team on 1300 76 29 39 or email info@thecpapclinic.com.au to find out how Sove can help you take the next step. When considering whether a sleep study is right for you, speak to your doctor. Medicare criteria and T&Cs apply. References 1. Sleep Health Foundation. “Menopause and Sleep.” Sleephealthfoundation.Org.Au, Sleep Health Foundation, 12 June 2025, https://www.sleephealthfoundation.org.au/sleep-topics/menopause-and-sleep. Accessed 9 Sept. 2026. 2) Pacheco, Danielle. “How Can Menopause Affect Sleep?” Sleep Foundation, 22 Jan. 2021, https://www.sleepfoundation.org/women-sleep/menopause-and-sleep. Accessed 9 Sept. 2026
