Restless Legs Syndrome in Menopause: Why You’re Losing Sleep July 30, 2025 Restless Legs Syndrome in Menopause: Why You’re Losing Sleep If you’ve ever crawled into bed only to be met with an irresistible urge to move your legs, you might be dealing with Restless Legs Syndrome (RLS). This condition, also known as Willis-Ekbom disease, affects twice as many women as men and is especially common during perimenopause and after menopause.1 RLS feels like an uncontrollable need to move your legs – often because of tingling, crawling, tugging, burning, or cramping sensations.1 Some women also experience involuntary jerking or twitching, known as periodic limb movements, which can jolt both you and your partner awake.1 The result? Sleepless nights and daytime exhaustion. Why Menopause Makes RLS More Likely Hormonal changes during perimenopause and menopause may play a role. Fluctuating oestrogen levels can affect dopamine, a brain chemical that controls muscle movement.2 Iron deficiency, which some women experience during this time, can also contribute to RLS.1 One study of 5,000 menopausal women found that 18.1% of women aged 45–54 reported restless legs syndrome, increasing to 20.9% in those aged 55–64.2 RLS is also strongly linked with other menopause symptoms, like night sweats and disrupted sleep.1 Two Main Types of RLS Primary (idiopathic): Often runs in families and isn’t linked to another medical condition. Secondary: Caused by conditions such as iron deficiency anaemia, pregnancy, kidney disease, diabetes, thyroid disorders, or medications. Managing Restless Legs and Improving Sleep Although there isn’t a one-size-fits-all cure, there are ways to ease symptoms and improve sleep: Address iron deficiency: If blood tests show low iron, supplements can help.1 Exercise regularly: Gentle, consistent movement like walking, yoga, or stretching reduces symptoms for many people.1 Avoid triggers: Stimulants such as caffeine, alcohol and tobacco can worsen RLS.2 Improve sleep hygiene: Keep a regular bedtime, avoid screens before bed, and create a cool, dark sleeping space.2 Self-care strategies: Massaging your legs, stretching, taking a warm bath, or using a hot compress can bring quick relief when symptoms hit.1 For ongoing symptoms, your doctor may prescribe dopamine-based medications or other treatments, such as pneumatic compression devices or, in some cases, certain epilepsy medicines like gabapentin and pregabalin.1 When to See a Doctor While RLS can be related to menopause, it can also signal underlying health issues such as anaemia, thyroid disorders, or even kidney problems. That’s why it’s important to discuss symptoms with a healthcare professional rather than self-managing indefinitely. If restless legs are keeping you awake, don’t ignore them. Talk to your doctor—because getting a good night’s sleep isn’t a luxury, it’s essential for your health. How Sove CPAP Clinic Can Help Founded in 2008, Sove CPAP Clinic has grown to become a leading provider of respiratory and sleep services and products in Australia, with over 60 clinics nationwide. Our comprehensive clinical team includes Respiratory & Sleep Specialists, Sleep Technologists, and CPAP Consultants, ensuring that you receive comprehensive and personalised care. All medical procedures, including sleep studies and lung function testing, are bulk billed to all Australians, with minimal wait time. If you would like to speak to a Respiratory & Sleep Physician, book a bulk-billed sleep study, or seek advice for your sleep apnea, you can reach us at 1300 76 29 39 or info@thecpapclinic.com.au. ALWAYS FOLLOW THE DIRECTIONS FOR USE. CPAP is used for Obstructive Sleep Apnea treatment. When considering whether a sleep study or CPAP is right for you, speak to your doctor. Medicare criteria and T&Cs apply. References Lyall, Joanna. “What Is Restless Legs Syndrome and How Is It Linked to Menopause?” The Better Menopause, 26 May 2024, thebettermenopause.com/blogs/the-better-gut-community/menopause-restless-legs-syndrome. “Restless Legs.” Stella, 28 Apr. 2025, www.onstella.com/menopause-symptoms/menopause-and-restless-legs/. Accessed 30 July 2025.
