Why is my sleep so affected by my monthly cycle?

You may find that you experience poor sleep before and during your period, as well as around ovulation—this is brought on by hormonal changes in the body.

Just before and after a period begins, progesterone and estrogen levels are at their lowest, inhibiting the release of melatonin, the sleepiness hormone. This can result in problems with both falling and staying asleep. This usually passes by around day seven as hormone levels rise but can recur during ovulation (approximately day 14 of a 28-day cycle) when estrogen peaks—it stimulates the nervous system and increases wakefulness. Sleep improves toward day 21, only to be disrupted again as you reach day 28, and hormones dip again.

CRAMPING AND SLEEP

During your period, abdominal pain, bloating, or cramps can significantly disrupt sleep. A hot water bottle or regular magnesium supplements can help relax the contracting muscles of the uterus and relieve symptoms.

Fluctuating hormones

During the course of the menstrual cycle, the hormonal ebb and flow can disrupt sleep patterns.

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