28 Sep 2026
By: Yi TCM Admin
The menopausal transition is often accompanied by various symptoms linked to shifting hormones, and insomnia is one of the most common. Menopausal women may experience night sweats, hot flushes, and fatigue, which may in turn cause a lack of restful sleep. Rather than a physical decline, Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) understands menopause as a natural stage in women’s life and the redirection of energy inward, called the “Second Spring” (二春). If you have been wondering, “Does menopause cause insomnia?”, this guide explores the link between insomnia and menopause from a TCM perspective, and how to support your body during this transition.
TCM traditionally views menopausal changes as patterns of Kidney deficiency and stagnation of Liver Qi. These patterns are typically linked to a shift in the balance of Yin and Yang, which may be considered when assessing symptoms such as changes in sleep, restlessness, and difficulty maintaining a cool evening body temperature.
The Kidney is where Jing (精) or essence is primarily stored. During menopause, a natural decline of Jing may cause Kidney Yin deficiency. According to TCM theory, Yin deficiency is traditionally associated with signs of internal Heat, which causes sleep disruptions, night sweats, and a warm sensation in the palms and feet.
The Liver is traditionally associated with regulating the flow of blood and emotions. A drop in Kidney Jing may cause the Liver Qi to become stagnant. This, in turn, causes restlessness and tension, making it difficult to fall asleep.
Menopause insomnia refers to sleep disturbances that women may experience during the transition to menopause. The symptoms include difficulties falling asleep, poor sleep quality, and frequently waking up throughout the night. Moreover, additional symptoms may include hot flushes, night sweats, and excessive sweating.
Women who experience menopause insomnia may have a reduced quality of life, as chronic sleep deprivation can worsen negative emotions and impair cognitive function. This condition has been linked to an increased risk of developing anxiety, depression, and cardiovascular diseases.
Hot flushes and night sweats are among the most disruptive symptoms of menopause, as declining oestrogen levels affect the hypothalamus’s ability to regulate internal temperature. From a TCM perspective, the phenomenon of decreased Yin and excessive Yang generates internal heat, which manifests as flushing and sweating, along with palpitations or anxiety. Moreover, sweating at night further depletes essential Yin fluids, which may worsen the internal imbalance and sleep disruption. While some women experience these surges only occasionally, some may deal with it daily, making restorative sleep highly difficult.
Current medication for menopausal insomnia focuses on managing the hormonal imbalances that cause difficulty in sleeping. Treatments may include Menopausal Hormone Therapy (MHT) and non-hormonal medication.
TCM does not view the sleep challenges that come with menopause as random disruptions. Rather, menopause is considered a transition and a reminder to slow down, nourishing the body more deeply. Thus, a TCM approach may help manage menopause insomnia by addressing the underlying imbalances causing it. Here are some ways TCM may support menopause-related sleep problems:
Acupuncture may be used as an adjunctive therapy in TCM for menopause to support the management of menopause insomnia. Acupuncture may target acupoints that have been traditionally associated with supporting Qi and Blood, as well as restoring the balance of Yin and Yang.
Research has also suggested that acupuncture can help improve sleep quality, particularly when targeting acupoints such as:
Chinese herbal medicine may also be prescribed to help replenish depleted Yin and Kidney Jing. Some commonly used TCM herbs include Shu Di Huang 熟地黄 (Rehmannia) and Gou Qi Zi 枸杞子 (Goji berries). Moreover, research has explored the potential of modified Chinese herbal decoctions in supporting sleep quality improvement, including:
Aside from TCM treatments, mind-body practices such as Qi Gong, Tai Chi, and meditation can support Qi circulation while calming the Heart spirit. These exercises may contribute to a healthier lifestyle and help with removing blockages in the meridians, which restore the body to a more balanced state.
While menopause insomnia can affect well-being, it is also a reminder to seek balance and nourish the body with appropriate support. At Yi TCM, our experienced practitioners are happy to support you as you transition into menopause. If you are experiencing menopause insomnia or other symptoms that disrupt your quality of life, we are here to help. Visit our TCM clinic in Singapore today to begin your journey with us!
Dong, M., Sun, Y., Wang, X., Yu, X., & Li, H. (2025). Efficacy of acupuncture as an adjunctive therapy for perimenopausal insomnia: A systematic review and meta-analysis of randomized controlled trials. Clinics, 80, Article 100814. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.clinsp.2025.100814
Sun D, Shao H, Li C, Tao M. Sleep disturbance and correlates in menopausal women in Shanghai. J Psychosom Res. 2014 Mar;76(3):237-41. doi: 10.1016/j.jpsychores.2013.12.002. Epub 2013 Dec 12. PMID: 24529044.
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