Understanding Pre-Menstrual Fatigue: Hormonal Causes & Relief

Each woman's body contains hundreds of different kinds of hormones, and three play a major part during the menstrual cycle. The levels of testosterone, estrogen and progesterone go up and down throughout your cycle, and this has a major effect on how your body functions.

Progesterone

• In the week before your period, the level of progesterone in your body rises. Progesterone has a sedating effect, which may make you feel listless and fatigued.

Estrogen

• During this time in your cycle, estrogen levels decrease. Declining estrogen levels lead to bursts of another hormone called noradrenaline, which can keep you from reaching REM sleep.

Testosterone

• Testosterone levels also decline leading up to your period, lowering energy and endurance.

Sensitivity

• At this point in your cycle, you are more sensitive to sounds, smells, and pain, which may have an effect on your sleep patterns.

Tips

• Try using a fan or sound machine during the night to block out distracting sounds. Even though you're tired, try to avoid caffeine; it can make premenstrual symptoms worse.