“The female reproductive hormones go through cyclical fluctuations, and these fluctuations may impact the production of melatonin and serotonin,” she explains. Since melatonin regulates sleep and serotonin affects mood, these hormonal shifts can trigger insomnia, disrupted sleep, daytime fatigue, and nighttime anxiety around the menstrual cycle.
Hormonal changes before and during menstruation can interfere with the body’s circadian rhythm.
“Estrogen and progesterone fluctuations can cause trouble falling asleep, waking up multiple times during the night, vivid dreams, or unrefreshing sleep,” Dr. Payal Chaudhary, Senior Consultant Obstetrician and Gynaecologist at Rosewalk Healthcare by Rainbow Hospitals says.
PMS symptoms can make restful sleep difficult
Sleep disruption during periods is not only hormonal but also physical. PMS symptoms such as bloating, abdominal cramps, headaches, back pain, breast tenderness, and hot flashes can make it difficult for women to find a comfortable sleeping position.
Dr. Tripti says that emotional symptoms like irritability, low mood, hypersensitivity, and stress can further worsen sleep quality. In PMDD, considered a more severe form of PMS, these symptoms become much more intense and can significantly affect relationships, work, and mental health.
