Hormones are central to circadian rhythm and sleep cycles. When they’re out of balance, sleep often becomes fragmented or restless.

Progesterone: Has a calming effect on the brain and promotes deeper sleep. Low levels, common in perimenopause, can cause insomnia and night waking.

Cortisol: Should peak in the morning and drop at night. If cortisol remains high in the evening, it suppresses melatonin and makes it harder to fall asleep.

Melatonin: Produced in response to darkness, but disrupted by stress, blue light exposure, or irregular schedules.

Thyroid hormones: Both underactive and overactive thyroid can cause restless sleep, night sweats, or difficulty staying asleep.

What helps: Restoring hormone balance, improving sleep hygiene (dark rooms, reduced screen time), and addressing stress can reset natural sleep cycles. In some cases, melatonin or progesterone therapy may be considered.