How to Cure Perimenopause Insomnia Naturally

The perimenopause is a natural transition in a woman's life which usually occurs around the age of about 52. For some women symptoms can suddenly manifest themselves including a difficulty sleeping properly. Perimenopause insomnia can be very distressing as you toss and turn at night.

This is made worse by hot sweats and anxiety as you throw off the bedclothes in an attempt to cool down. There are very simple ways to overcome this problem such as making sure that you have a window open in the bedroom to allow fresh air to circulate. Also don't have heavy duvet covers and blankets on the bed during the summer. Just a light cotton sheet is probably enough.

Don't eat a heavy meal too late at night and avoid spicy foods that include chilli powder or ginger. This type of food generates heat and this make your hot flushes a lot worse. Also avoid drinking in the evening as even just one glass of wine can bring on a hot flush. Stick to soft drinks or mineral water.

Women of menopause age often have lots of stress in their lives. Teenagers, aging parents and a demanding job, as well as running a home can leave little time for yourself. Stress is a major factor in causing perimenopause insomnia so just take time for yourself in the day and relax. Take up yoga or tai chi to help relieve tension, or treat yourself to a reflexology or aromatherapy session.

Some women experiencing perimenopause insomnia find that taking some supplements gives relief. These include black cohosh, red clover and evening primrose oil. Soya based foods such as vegetarian soya mince, soya beans, miso, and soya milk contain phytoestrogens which are similar to estrogen. During the menopause estrogen levels fall and this is what produces the unpleasant symptoms including insomnia and hot flushes.

Melatonin is a chemical produced by the pineal gland as darkness falls and encourages sleep. As we age production of melatonin falls and this is another reason why older people find it hard to get a good night's sleep. It can be taken as a supplement and is also a good source of antioxidants.

Another reason for perimenopause insomnia is a decline in seratonin. This chemical is released by the brain and encourages sleep. However seratonin relies on estrogen to function properly and during the perimenopause levels fall. St Johns's wort is a supplement that can help with low moods and depression which are also common during the menopause. It can also increase levels of serotonin and melotonin in the body and so help you to overcome perimenopause insomnia.

Perimenopause insomnia is very common and experienced by at least 20% of menopausal women so you are not alone if you are one of them. It can cause daytime drowsiness and poor concentration which could prove dangerous if you drive, or cause you to make mistakes at work.