Fatigue

What causes tiredness and fatigue in menopause?

As with most symptoms during menopause, tiredness and fatigue is mainly caused by the change in hormone levels. As oestrogen levels fluctuate during your menstrual cycle, it is common to find your energy levels fluctuating too. You are likely to find that you have higher levels of energy in the first two weeks of your period, when oestrogen levels are at their highest. Then, as your oestrogen levels drop after ovulation, you may start feeling more tired and fatigued.

Fluctuating hormones and other menopausal symptoms such as insomnia and night sweats can have a negative impact on the quality of sleep women get each night. This lack of sleep then contributes to the feelings of tiredness and fatigue during the day.

Tips to manage fatigue

Try to get a good night’s sleep

Ensuring you get a good night’s sleep is really important, so you don’t wake up feeling fatigued. As this seems to be the root cause of most women’s fatigue problems your sleep pattern is a good place to start.  Following a simple sleep routine every night could really help.

Get Moving

When feeling fatigued, exercise is no doubt the last thing on your list, however it really can help overcome fatigue. Just start with a 20-30-minute walk and work up to a bike ride or even a run! You will really notice the difference pretty much instantly!

Take a supplement

Our bodies need vitamins to work properly so it is worth while ensuring you’re not lacking in any vital vitamins or minerals. Vitamin B and magnesium can both help combat fatigue so if you’re not getting enough through your diet you may want to top it up with a supplement.

Further Reading

You can find further tips and advice on managing fatigue in our guides below.   You may also be interested in reading guides focusing on foods that can help with menopausal symptoms.