Sleep Disorders in Perimenopausal Women and Metabolic Syndrome, is that True?

Abstract

Sleep disorders (SD) are a common complaint in women going through menopause transition. It is well known that there is a close relationship between SD and one of the main menopausal symptoms: vasomotor symptoms (VMS). To acknowledge this association is essential when investigating menopausal transition and SD. The Study of Women’s Health across the Nation (SWAN), shows that the prevalence of sleep disturbance increases with age. The prevalence in perimenopausal and postmenopausal women varies from 39% to 47% and 35% to 60% respectively. Although both menopausal transition and aging increase sleep disturbances, etiology in menopausal women is probably multifactorial. A decline in the levels of reproductive hormones and melatonin, and the complex interaction among these hormones can significantly contribute to sleep problems, poor concentration, fatigue and decreased quality of life. On the one hand menopause nearly adversely affects all components of metabolic syndrome (MS) and on the other hand the cumulative long-term effects of deprived sleep have been associated with many cardio metabolic consequences including hypertension, obesity, and impaired glucose metabolism. Management strategies should be taken into account to help women ameliorate their night sleep, in order to prevent future complications and to improve their quality of life (QoL).