Maybe You have Sleep Apnea

Most women assume sleep apnea is something that happens to "other people". Snorers. Older men. Someone's uncle.

But the truth? A surprising number of women-especially in midlife-have sleep apnea and don't know it.

I didn't snore. I wasn't a "classic case". And I still had moderate sleep apnea when I finally did a sleep study.

Sleep Apnea Is Much More Common Than We Realize

Sleep studies used to be rare. Now they're common-and many people discover they've had sleep apnea for years without a single clue or thinking it's something else.

You don't need to snore. You don't need to "look like you have it".

You just need to be human in 2025... and possibly in perimenopause.

Why Midlife Women Should Pay Attention

Hormonal shifts affect airway muscle tone, breathing stability, and sleep quality.

Meaning?

Sleep apnea can show up for the first time in your 30's, 40's, 50's- even if you never had an issue before.

If you wake up tired no matter what, have brain fog, headaches, random heart racing, or disrupted sleep... a sleep study may give you answers.

Better Sleep Starts, With the Basics

Even if you don't have sleep apnea, improving sleep habits supports hormones, moods, metabolism, and overall energy.

Here are simple ways to make nights easier

*Cool the room (60-65 degrees)

*Keep the bedroom dark- blackout curtains help

*Limit screen 1 hour before bed

*Create a calming routine (shower, stretch, read)

*Keep your phone across the room

*Consider separate sleeping arrangements if your partner keeps you up (I know that's crazy, but women have said it's the best thig they ever did)

*Support your airway (humidifier, nasal strips, side-sleeping)

*Get morning sunlight-to reset your internal clock

Bottom Line

If midlife has made your sleep unpredictable, frustrating, or unrecognizable, you're not imagining it- and you're not alone.

A sleep study can uncover what's really going on, and small changes at home can make a big difference.

Your sleep is a core part of your health. Treat it like the essential fuel it is.