Menopause-related insomnia may be better treated with hormone therapy than sleeping pills, according to a specialist's report in La Vanguardia.
Menopause and sleep issues
Poor sleep during menopause is not an unavoidable problem, according to Javier Albares, a neurophysiologist and sleep specialist. He explained in an interview with La Vanguardia in early October 2026 that hormone therapy can be more effective than sleeping pills for many women over fifty who struggle with disrupted sleep.Hormones and sleep disruption
During menopause, the body’s estrogen and progesterone levels drop significantly. These hormones play a key role in regulating body temperature and promoting sleep. The decline in progesterone, which has a mild sedative effect, and the rise in cortisol, a stress hormone, can make it harder to fall and stay asleep.Body changes during menopause
The drop in estrogen and progesterone also affects serotonin levels, a chemical involved in both mood and the onset of sleep. This hormonal shift can disrupt the body’s internal clock and lead to hot flashes—sudden waves of heat that wake women up multiple times during the night.Prevalence and impact of sleep issues
Up to 40% of women experience a true sleep disorder during menopause, according to Albares. Many accept these symptoms as a normal part of aging, but lack of sleep can worsen anxiety and other health problems, making it important to seek solutions like hormone replacement therapy.
