You know that feeling when your period is just around the corner? A few days before mine, I start to feel sluggish and exhausted. Like many women, I just want to curl up in my car with the seat warmer blasting while I munch on sourdough bread. Household chores take forever, and I’m left feeling grumpy. And when it comes to exercise? No thanks, cardio! I’m so wiped out that I feel it in my bones. All I can think about is getting into bed and snuggling under my flannel sheets, hoping to wake up feeling more like myself. Unfortunately, my dreams of restful sleep have been dashed by the dreaded menstrual insomnia.
When I was younger, I could nap like a champ and sleep soundly during my period. But as I approached my 40s, everything changed. Now, the nights are filled with tossing and turning, and I can’t completely drift off. At first, I thought it might be anxiety or plain insomnia. Then I realized it only happened around that time of the month. My body feels exhausted, but my mind is wide awake. It’s so frustrating.
And guess what? I’m not alone. According to a poll by the National Sleep Foundation, 67% of women report having trouble sleeping during certain days of their cycle. Seriously, can we catch a break? Being sleep-deprived and on your period is a tough combination to handle! After chatting with my friend Sarah, who also struggles to sleep around her cycle, I decided to dig deeper into this issue. Turns out, menstrual insomnia is a real thing, not just something we’re imagining. It’s a common symptom of PMS, and it’s not only due to discomfort or bloating but also because of our fluctuating hormones.
After ovulation, our bodies produce more progesterone, which can make us feel drowsy. However, just before our period, progesterone levels drop, leading to those sleepless nights. Fantastic, right? But that’s not all — our bodies run warmer during this time, too. Even a slight increase in temperature can make it tough to find a comfortable sleeping position. I often feel like I’m overheating, no matter how I adjust my sheets or what I wear to bed.
Tips for Better Sleep During Your Period
But fear not, ladies! There are ways to improve sleep during our periods. According to Sleep.org, exercise can actually help alleviate some PMS symptoms while promoting better sleep. I know, I know — exercise is the last thing we want to hear about during this time! But breaking a sweat can be beneficial. Using a hot water bottle or heating pad can also help you relax and drift off more easily.
Another tip is to watch what you eat before bed. I can’t help but laugh at this one! I’ve been known to wake up ravenous and consider driving to the nearest diner for a midnight feast. But if keeping my late-night snacks light helps me sleep better, I’m willing to give it a shot. There are also natural over-the-counter sleep aids that might be worth trying. My friend Lisa swears by taking Tylenol PM a few nights each month, and she says it’s made a world of difference.
So, if you find yourself tossing and turning a few nights each month, know that it’s not all in your head. Menstrual insomnia is a common issue, but by being mindful of your cycle and making a few lifestyle changes, you can hopefully avoid those restless nights. And trust me, you’ll be grateful for it the next day when you don’t feel like punching someone in the face.
Additional Resources
For those interested in starting a family, check out the free sperm donor matching group at Make A Mom, or see how at-home insemination works with Make A Mom’s reusable kits. They also offer fertility resources for men if you’re looking to boost your chances. For more information on pregnancy and home insemination, you can visit Progyny’s blog.
Summary
Menstrual insomnia affects many women due to hormonal changes and body temperature fluctuations. Understanding these factors can help manage sleep disturbances during your cycle. Simple lifestyle adjustments, such as exercise and mindful eating, can promote better sleep.
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