What is the most common sleep disturbance in menopause?

• A. Narcolepsy
• B. Sleep apnea
• C. Night terrors
• D. Insomnia

Answer: (D)

Insomnia is the most common sleep disturbance in menopause. Hormonal changes during perimenopause and menopause drive vasomotor symptoms—hot flashes and night sweats—that often occur at night and fragment sleep, making it hard to fall asleep and to stay asleep. Mood changes, anxiety, and disrupted sleep architecture further contribute to awakened, unrefreshing sleep. Other problems like sleep apnea or parasomnias can occur but are less prevalent in this population, so insomnia stands out as the usual complaint. Managing it often focuses on reducing vasomotor symptoms, improving sleep hygiene, and using therapies like CBT for insomnia to help reestablish regular, restorative sleep.