Matt dives into the intricate relationship between menopause and sleep disturbances today. He begins by noting that menopause, a natural process for women typically occurring between ages 45 and 55, brings about significant physical and emotional symptoms, with disrupted sleep being one of the most impactful. Exploring the underlying mechanisms of sleep disruption in menopause, our host highlights hormonal changes and hot flashes as primary factors. Hormonal fluctuations, particularly a decline in estrogen and progesterone levels, affect neurotransmitters like serotonin, which regulate sleep. Additionally, hot flashes disrupt sleep by causing thermal dysregulation and nighttime awakenings, further exacerbating sleep disturbances.

Matt goes on to discuss the various types of sleep impairments associated with menopause, including insomnia, sleep-disordered breathing such as sleep apnea, restless leg syndrome, and disruptions in specific sleep stages like REM sleep. He also explores treatment options, emphasizing hormone replacement therapy (HRT) as a potential solution to rebalance hormonal levels and improve sleep quality. However, Matt acknowledges the controversy surrounding HRT and offers insights into alternative approaches, including medication options like sleeping pills and gabapentin, as well as non-drug therapies like cognitive behavioral therapy for insomnia (CBTI). Overall, today’s episode stresses the importance of recognizing the profound impact of menopause on sleep and the need for comprehensive support and education to address these challenges effectively.

Please note that Matt is not a medical doctor, and none of the content in this podcast should be considered medical advice in any way, shape, or form, nor prescriptive in any way.

Are sleep troubles keeping you up at night? Matt used to be a skeptic about meditation, but 7 years ago, he tried it using a fantastic meditation app called ‘Calm’, and it transformed his sleep! Now, he meditates for 10 minutes before bedtime every night! He’s also partnered with Calm who have been generous enough to offer his podcast listeners an exclusive 40% discount on their premium subscription! All you have to do is go to calm.com/mattwalker and take advantage of this incredible deal! Head on over now and improve your sleep today!

The good people at InsideTracker are one of the sponsors of this week's episode, and they are generously offering a special 25% off any one of their programs for anyone who uses the above link during the time window of this episode. InsideTracker is a personalized biometric platform that analyzes your blood and your DNA to better understand what's happening inside of you and offers suggestions regarding things that you can do to better try and adjust some of those numbers, optimize them, and, as a result, optimize you.

Another sponsor this week is the biochemical electrolyte drink company LMNT, and they are very kindly offering eight free sample packs when you purchase any

#69 - Sleep & Menopause

The Matt Walker Podcast