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More Sleep
or
More Sex?
Nearly Half
of Women 45+ Would Prefer More Sleep to Sex
CHATSWORTH, Calif., Nov. 11, 2003: In a new national survey of
women over age forty-five, eighty-seven percent reported
experiencing sleep problems, indicating sleep as the most
important menopause symptom they would like to relieve. The
women conveyed that sleep problems affect their energy levels
(66%), concentration (54%), and motivation (50%) -- so much
so, that nearly half (47)% said they would rather get more
sleep than sex (29% don't know which they would prefer).
The nationally random survey was designed to uncover
challenges faced by menopausal women, following conflicting
news on Hormone Replacement Therapy (HRT) to treat symptoms
and potential health effects.* Conducted by independent
research firm, IMR MarketEffect, the survey was sponsored by
Natrol, Inc., maker of Complete Balance AM/PM for Menopause.
Sleep disturbance is a known side effect of
menopause1. Other top
symptoms women would like to avoid are hot flashes (43%) and
weight gain (37%). Additional complaints include headaches,
night sweats, mood swings and joint pain. 85% Report at Least
One Menopause Symptom -- Only 15% on HRT
"Since it can affect hormone balance and
aggravate symptoms such as mood swings, energy and body
weight, occasional sleep disturbance is a major concern for
menopausal women," said Sherry Torkos, BSc Phm, pharmacist and
author of "Breaking the Age Barrier". "The symptoms can be
managed, but women need to take greater initiative to learn
about their options."
Most Haven't Explored Alternatives
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While 85% of
women surveyed said they had experienced at least one
menopausal symptom, less than half requested treatment from
a physician, only 17% consulted with a pharmacist, and only
19%
consulted with an alternative treatment expert.
-
Although 15%
said they were currently taking prescription HRT, 69% said
they had not explored other alternatives.
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Over 63% of the
women surveyed were somewhat to extremely concerned about
sleep disorders affecting their quality of life, only 39%
had reported sleep problems to a physician.
-
While 73% have
heard of melatonin, only 22% have tried it to help improve
sleep.
-
Only 23% said
they take nutritional supplements to help relieve menopause
symptoms
"Women can take control of their health and
well-being, by better educating themselves," said Torkos. "For
example, pharmacists in the US are a very under-utilized
resource -- in particular, they can provide important
information about the efficacy, safety, and proper use of
nutritional supplements."
(1) NIH National Center for Sleep Disorders
Research
For more information see the FDA, U.S. Dept. of Health and
Human Services, Office on Women's Health,
fda.gov/womens/menopause
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