When you’re on your period, getting enough quality sleep that makes you feel rested can feel like an insurmountable task. Between pre-menstrual and period symptoms, hormone changes, and stress, getting good sleep can be hard, and if you’ve felt this way, you’re definitely not alone. Most people say they experience a lower quality of sleep when they’re on their periods, and are looking for ways to improve the sleep they’re getting, either by getting more hours in or by having a more restful sleep. Understanding how you can improve your sleep during your period starts by understanding what’s happening with your body, and why a good night’s sleep can feel impossible during that time of the month.
Your Changing Hormone Levels
A big culprit to having a lower quality of sleep during your period is your changing hormone levels. During your menstrual cycle, hormones like estrogen and progesterone fluctuate, seeing big changes just before your period starts. In the week leading up to your period, your progesterone peaks, leading to an increase in your body temperature, which can in turn cause you to feel hot and sweaty at night, causing a lower quality of sleep. Progesterone also can play a part in how long you spend in the different cycles of sleep, meaning that even if you have gotten 6 to 8 hours in bed, it might not have been sufficiently restful.
Pre Menstrual and Period Symptoms That Affect Sleep
Just before and during your period, your body goes through many physical changes that can affect your body’s ability to relax, which means it can be harder for you to fall asleep. Some of the pre menstrual and period symptoms that can affect your sleep include:
- Bloating
- Fatigue
- Stress levels
- Sensitivity to sound and light
- Cramping
- Tender breasts
- Headaches and migraines
All of these symptoms can range from mild, moderate, and severe, and depending on the severity, they can all greatly affect your ability to fall asleep and the level of quality sleep you’re able to get. Some people with especially difficult symptoms may need to talk with their OB/GYN about different birth controls or other ways to help manage their symptoms.
How You Can Improve Your Sleep On Your Period
There are several things that can help improve the quality of your sleep during your period, including things like exercise, stretching, fans and thermostat levels, and diet. If your sleep has gotten especially and consistently bad during certain points in your menstrual cycle, it might be worth talking with your OB/GYN. And for trustworthy and thoughtful OB/GYN care, come see the team of experts at Eagle’s Landing OB/GYN in Stockbridge, GA. Call or book online to make your appointment today!
