You are certainly dealing with a lot right now, and you've asked some good questions. I did a literature search trying to find answers for you, and found it very frustrating. There were reports stating that estrogen therapy would help reduce cortisol levels, as well as reports indicating no impact. Getting answers may take a while.
High levels of cortisol (stress hormones) can definitely lead to insomnia, as well as many other issues. You mentioned that you are being treated with herbs for that - I'm wondering if you have considered taking additional measures.
This article, from the EmpowHER community, provides good information on cortisol as well as suggestions for reducing levels. Please read Understanding cortisol - our friend, our enemy - and let us know what you think. As the author notes, stress reduction can play a huge role in reducing cortisol levels. She says "the big picture is to keep trying to lower your daily stress level, by changing your lifestyle where you can. And the smaller picture is to learn ways to relax your body and mind, like journaling, deep breathing, meditation, yoga, listening to music and so on. It doesn't matter how you do it, but it matters that you do it."
We also have a section of the site dedicated to cortisol information where you can find clinical information, articles and videos. You just may find some of the answers you're seeking there.
I hope other women will see your "Ask" and chime in with their own personal experiences and observations. We can certainly learn a lot from each other!
Hope this helps, and I hope we are starting you on the right path toward getting the answers you need so that you can start getting a good night's sleep.
Comment Reply
Hi Kathy B -
Thanks for your question and welcome to EmpowHER!
You are certainly dealing with a lot right now, and you've asked some good questions. I did a literature search trying to find answers for you, and found it very frustrating. There were reports stating that estrogen therapy would help reduce cortisol levels, as well as reports indicating no impact. Getting answers may take a while.
High levels of cortisol (stress hormones) can definitely lead to insomnia, as well as many other issues. You mentioned that you are being treated with herbs for that - I'm wondering if you have considered taking additional measures.
This article, from the EmpowHER community, provides good information on cortisol as well as suggestions for reducing levels. Please read Understanding cortisol - our friend, our enemy - and let us know what you think. As the author notes, stress reduction can play a huge role in reducing cortisol levels. She says "the big picture is to keep trying to lower your daily stress level, by changing your lifestyle where you can. And the smaller picture is to learn ways to relax your body and mind, like journaling, deep breathing, meditation, yoga, listening to music and so on. It doesn't matter how you do it, but it matters that you do it."
We also have a section of the site dedicated to cortisol information where you can find clinical information, articles and videos. You just may find some of the answers you're seeking there.
I hope other women will see your "Ask" and chime in with their own personal experiences and observations. We can certainly learn a lot from each other!
Hope this helps, and I hope we are starting you on the right path toward getting the answers you need so that you can start getting a good night's sleep.
Best,
Pat
September 6, 2014 - 8:22pmThis Comment
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