Why does menopause affect sleep?

Declining estrogen and progesterone can disrupt the body's natural sleep-wake cycle, while night sweats and hot flashes frequently wake women during the night. Progesterone in particular has a mild calming effect, so falling levels can make it harder to fall and stay asleep.

Anxiety, mood changes, and an increased likelihood of sleep-disordered breathing during menopause can further compound sleep difficulties.