Health topics · Sleep
Sleep in midlife
Why sleep changes, and what helps.
Education only. This page gives general information. It does not replace advice from your doctor. If you are worried about a symptom, see your general practitioner or call healthdirect on 1800 022 222. In an emergency, call 000.
Why sleep changes
Night sweats, needing to pass urine at night, anxiety and changing hormones can all break sleep. The risk of sleep apnoea, where breathing stops and starts during sleep, also rises after menopause.
What helps
- Keep regular sleep and wake times
- Keep the bedroom cool, and use layers you can remove
- Limit alcohol and caffeine, especially later in the day
- Get daylight and movement during the day
- Ask about cognitive behavioural therapy for insomnia, which works well and has lasting effects
See a doctor if
- Poor sleep lasts more than a few weeks
- You snore loudly, gasp at night or feel very sleepy during the day
- Night sweats wake you most nights
Talk to us
Our free workshops cover this and more, in plain language, with time for questions. See our programmes or get support.