But for many people with polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS), getting aquality nights sleepcan be challenging.

But many people dont realize that PCOS andsleepare also connected.

Why does PCOS affect sleep?

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PCOS doesnt just play a role in your fertility and sexual health.

The condition can touch nearly every aspect of life, including how you sleep.

As a result, people with PCOS can feel the hallmarksymptoms of insomnia.

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board-certified endocrinologist and co-founder ofAnzara Health

These sleep disturbancesincluding insomnia and sleep apneacan affect your daytime hours, too.

Finally, its important to understand that poor sleep quality can worsen your PCOS.

Sleep is essential for hormone control and without enough rest, hormone function can suffer.

close up of person drinking a green smoothie that may cause their poop to be green

Below, our experts break down some strategies to venture to help you get a good nights rest.

You may also think aboutseeing a therapistto learn some stress-management techniques.

Dr. Wu says cognitive behavioral therapy for insomnia (CBT-I) is typically the gold-standard treatment for these issues.

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Ideally, you should allot for 7 to 9 hours of sleep every night.

Fixing metabolic issues is key, says Dr. Kausel.

But of course, talk to your doctor about whats appropriate for your body size and overall health.

cup of matcha green tea sitting on a wooden ledge

board-certified endocrinologist and co-founder ofAnzara Health

To fully address metabolic factors, though, its best to talk with your doctor about your options.

(More on this below.)

Hormonal therapies can help stabilize your hormone levels, and potentially benefit sleep.

LOS ANGELES - FEB 10: Patrick Schwarzenegger at the White Lotus Season 3 Premiere at Paramount Studios on February 10, 2025 in Los Angeles, CA

But the time of day you take these medications will especially matter when it comes to sleep.

Dr. Wu recommends seeing your doctor if you have consistent sleep disturbances that last more than a few days.

medically reviewed byAngela Holliday-Bell, MD

Wang, Chaoyu et al.

Woman drinking a protein meal replacement shake in the kitchen

A meta-analysis of the relationship between polycystic ovary syndrome and sleep disturbances risk.Frontiers in physiologyvol.

29 Sep. 2022, doi:10.3389/fphys.2022.957112

Lateef, Olubodun Michael, and Michael Olawale Akintubosun.

Sleep and Reproductive Health.Journal of circadian rhythmsvol.

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