Menopause and tiredness: what to know

Falling asleep may become harder, or night sweats may wake you and leave you unrefreshed. Emotional strain, anxiety and low mood can also drain energy and make ordinary responsibilities feel heavier. Tiredness may overlap with thyroid problems, anaemia, medication effects, sleep disorders or other conditions, so menopause should not be assumed to explain every change. Notice whether fatigue follows poor sleep or is present even after a restful night.

Keep wake and sleep times as steady as possible, make the bedroom comfortable, and record night waking for a short period. Gentle movement during the day can support sleep and stamina; build up gradually if you have been inactive. Plan demanding tasks for the time when you have most energy, and ask for practical help while symptoms are unsettled. A clinician can review medicines, bleeding history, mood, sleep and other symptoms before suggesting treatment.

Book a medical review when tiredness lasts, worsens, limits normal activity or occurs with breathlessness, palpitations, marked thirst, unexplained weight change or persistent low mood. Get urgent help for chest pain, severe breathing difficulty, fainting, sudden confusion or thoughts of self-harm.

Ask what might be contributing to your fatigue, whether you need an examination or blood tests, and how sleep or hot flushes could be managed. Mention heavy or irregular bleeding, snoring, mood changes and every medicine or supplement you use.