This is a 2-part post on dealing with sleep issues (namely that it can be hard to fall asleep) with pre-menopause and menopause.

It is not uncommon for women entering menopause to experience bouts of insomnia. The link between menopause and insomnia is debated in medical circles about what causes the problem. A few of the possible causes and methods of treating them are outlined here.

One reason that doctors think sleep problems in menopause occur is the drop in estrogen levels. When estrogen levels are low, calcium and magnesium levels also become unbalanced. Women low in calcium often experience insomnia, irritability, nervousness and headaches. Low levels of magnesium cause restlessness and sleep disturbances. Because these two minerals are not absorbed as easily when estrogen is low, it is important to find supplements that are more easily assimilated or to get enough in your diet. Some natural sleep remedies also include natural forms of magnesium and calcium.

Some doctors feel that menopause and insomnia are linked because of temperature fluctuations in the menopausal woman’s body. Hormonal fluctuations can cause the body’s temperatures to change, waking a woman up. It will take a little time for the temperature to drop again, allowing her to fall back asleep. Some believe that anxiety is the cause. You can try herbal supplements like kava kava, valerian, melatonin or other natural sleeping aid that does not become addictive when you need a little extra help in relaxing.

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