Is It Hot in Here, or Is This Insomnia?

Several studies have found that being female is a risk factor for insomnia, possibly because women are more likely to develop depression and anxiety disorders (both commonly associated with sleep disturbances) and because sleep problems might emerge secondary to reproductive cycle–related changes. Among other factors, the association between menopause and insomnia has been attributed to the occurrence and severity of nocturnal hot flashes because they may interrupt sleep. However, studies of this association have yielded conflicting results.

To determine whether hot flashes (occurring at least 3 days per week in the prior month) are associated with insomnia symptoms (occurring at least 3 days per week for the past 6 months), researchers of t…