A new study suggests that exposure to various endocrine-disrupting chemicals, found in hundreds of daily products, is associated with sleep disruption in menopausal women
Up to 60% of menopausal women experience sleep disruption as a result of decreasing hormone levels. Exposure to endocrine-disrupting chemicals (EDCs) is a largely unexplored area that may help to explain the increased prevalence of sleep difficulties in menopausal women.
60% of menopausal women experience sleep disruption
Phthalates are common EDCs that are found in everything from food packaging and clothing to cosmetics and children’s toys. Previous studies have shown that increased exposure to phthalates from personal care products significantly increased the risk of hot flashes and waking up at night, particularly in women.
In a new first-ever study, examining 760 premenopausal and perimenopausal women, data suggests that sleep disruption is associated with urinary concentrations of phthalates. However, more research is needed due to the complexity of other variables such as smoking.
Dr Stephanie Faubion, NAMS medical director. said: “This study raises concerns and additional questions about a possible contribution of phthalates to sleep disturbances in premenopausal and perimenopausal women. Additional research into these endocrine-disrupting chemicals and their interactions with hormones, sleep, and mood in midlife women is needed.”
This study is based on data from the Midlife Women’s Health Study and results are published online today in Menopause, the journal of The North American Menopause Society (NAMS).
Original source: https://www.eurekalert.org/pub_releases/2020-07/tnam-ete072820.php
