Midlife Women's Responses to a Hospital Sleep Challenge: Aging and Menopause Effects on Sleep Architecture


May 21, 2004
Many women notice sleep disturbances as the menopause approaches. It has always been assumed that these changes were due to fluctuations and withdraw of estrogen as menopause approaches with the associated hot flashes and night sweats. Numerous previous studies have not shown significant improvement in sleep with hormonal therapy during menopause. To help distinguish aging effects from menopause hormone effects, a recent study was done at the University of Michigan on sleep patterns in both young and middle-aged (non-menopausal) women. To avoid confusion with menopause symptoms, women with hot flashes or night sweats were excluded. Women between the ages of 20 and 50 were studied with regard to their menopause and hormonal status. Younger and older patients with normal cycles were stratified by age. Other groups studied include women in menopause without symptoms and women taking hormone therapy after a surgical menopause. Sleep was monitored via an EEG. Hormonal levels were obtained for analysis. The authors demonstrated that middle aged women experienced greater sleep disturbance than younger women regardless of hormonal levels or ovarian function. The results showed that age related sleep deficits occur in women prior to menopause and they may not be due to hormonal changes. Although this study could not explain this apparent age-related sleep disturbance, it does reflect the need for additional studies to clarify this common problem and potentially shed light on useful treatment options.

Jane L. Lukacs, Ph.D., M.S.N.; Julie L. Chilimigras, M.P.H.; Jason R. Cannon, B.S.; Sharon L. Dormire, Ph.D., M.S.N.; Nancy E. Reame, Ph.D., M.S.N. Midlife Women's Responses to a Hospital Sleep Challenge: Aging and Menopause Effects on Sleep Architecture J Womens Health 13(3):333-340, 2004.

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