Sleep alterations and menopause: a revision of literature

Abstract

During the postmenopausal period, many women report a number of difficulties in getting adequate sleep. This symptom, named insomnia, may intensify preexisting neuropsychic symptoms (such as irritability, anxiety, depression, and concentration and memory loss). Several hormones, such as the growth and cell recovery hormones, are released during the sleeping period. Nowadays, chronobiology explains that many functions of living organisms are influenced by the alternation between wakefulness and sleep. “Normal”, “natural” and “good” sleep pattern, as accepted today, is influenced by cultural and historical beliefs, apart from biological factors supported by scientific findings. Some authors associate reduced sleep time during menopause mainly with endocrinological changes, and only secondarily to psychological factors. As the aging process takes place, sleep patterns tend to return to normal in the post menopausal period. However, there are few studies about the factors that interfere with irregular sleep pattern found in the postmenopausal period and their possible consequences on the quality of life of these women.