Why am I so tired during menopause?

Feeling exhausted all the time? You’re not alone. Menopause fatigue can feel like it’s taken over your life, draining your energy even on days when you feel like you should be fine. It’s not just in your head - there’s a real, physical reason behind this constant tiredness, and it’s more common than you might think.

Let’s break down why this happens and, more importantly, what you can do to feel like yourself again.

What causes menopause fatigue?

Fatigue during menopause is more than just being tired after a long day. It’s a deep, all-encompassing exhaustion that can affect your physical, mental, and emotional well-being. Here’s why it happens:

1. Hormonal fluctuations
   The drop in oestrogen during menopause can mess with everything - from your energy levels to your ability to sleep well. Oestrogen plays a key role in maintaining your body’s natural energy systems, so when it decreases, you can feel like you’re running on empty.

2. Sleep disruptions
   Night sweats, hot flashes, and insomnia are all too common during menopause. Even if you’re in bed for eight hours, broken sleep means your body isn’t getting the rest it needs. This creates a vicious cycle: poor sleep leads to fatigue, which makes it harder to cope with menopause symptoms.

3. Stress and mental load
   Whether it’s work, family, or personal responsibilities, life doesn’t slow down just because your body is going through a major transition. Increased stress can amplify fatigue, leaving you feeling even more wiped out.

4. Nutritional deficiencies
   Menopause can impact how your body absorbs nutrients like magnesium, iron, and B vitamins - key players in energy production. If these levels are low, it could be adding to your fatigue.

5. Slower metabolism
   As your metabolism slows, your body doesn’t process energy the way it used to. It’s not just about weight gain; it’s about feeling sluggish and out of sync.

How to combat menopause fatigue

There’s no quick fix for menopause fatigue, but there are ways to manage it and reclaim your energy. Here are some tips to get started:

• Create a sleep routine
  Going to bed and waking up at the same time every day can help regulate your body’s internal clock. Try limiting screen time before bed and keeping your bedroom cool to reduce night sweats.

• Focus on your diet
  Incorporate energy-boosting foods like leafy greens, whole grains, and lean protein. Supplements designed for menopause, like magnesium, B vitamins, or a high-quality multivitamin, can also help fill in nutritional gaps.

• Stay active
  Even light exercise, like walking or stretching, can increase your energy levels and improve your sleep quality. It might feel counterintuitive when you’re exhausted, but moving your body can make a huge difference.

• Manage stress
  Stress can make fatigue worse, so take time to unwind. Whether it’s mindfulness, yoga, or simply saying “no” to things that overextend you, stress management is crucial.

• Listen to your body
  Rest when you need to, and don’t feel guilty about it. Menopause is a major life transition - it’s okay to give yourself permission to slow down.

You’re not alone in this

Feeling tired all the time can be isolating, but it’s important to remember that menopause fatigue is a shared experience for many women. It’s not a weakness, and it doesn’t mean you’re doing something wrong. With the right strategies, you can start to feel more like yourself again.

If you’re looking for tailored solutions to support your energy and well-being during menopause, check out our resources over on The Bloom and products designed specifically for women navigating this stage of life. You deserve to feel your best, and we’re here to help you every step of the way.