| Follicular Phase (Early Cycle) | Low estrogen and progesterone | Generally stable, but some women report poor sleep | Mild sleep disruptions in sensitive individuals | Maintain sleep hygiene, reduce stress |
| Ovulatory Phase | Estrogen peaks, progesterone rises | No major disruptions, some women report better sleep | Slight improvement in sleep latency & REM onset | Maintain regular bedtime, avoid overstimulation |
| Luteal Phase (Late Cycle) | High progesterone, moderate estrogen | Increased awakenings, reduced REM sleep, more fatigue | More awakenings, reduced REM, increased daytime sleepiness | Light therapy, melatonin, avoid caffeine/alcohol |
| PMS & PMDD | Fluctuating estrogen & progesterone | Higher risk of insomnia, poor sleep efficiency | Insomnia, mood-related sleep issues, hypersensitivity to light | CBT-I, SSRIs, light therapy, stress management |
| Dysmenorrhea (Painful Periods) | Increased prostaglandins (pain mediators) | Sleep disruption due to pain, reduced sleep continuity | Increased nighttime awakenings, reduced deep sleep | Pain relief (NSAIDs), heat therapy, relaxation techniques |
| PCOS (Polycystic Ovary Syndrome) | High androgens, insulin resistance | Higher risk of sleep apnea, increased daytime sleepiness | Obstructive sleep apnea (OSA), poor sleep efficiency | CPAP for sleep apnea, weight management, hormonal therapy |
| Hormonal Contraceptive Use | Synthetic estrogen and progestins | More N2 sleep, less slow-wave sleep (SWS), minimal impact on sleep quality | Minor changes in sleep architecture, increased sleep spindle activity | May help stabilize sleep if menstrual-related sleep issues exist |
