Daily changes in sleepiness during the menstrual cycle

Subjective sleepiness and slow wave sleep-containing nap trials increased in the luteal phase compared to the follicular phase.

• Women may experience changes in sleep patterns across their menstrual cycle.
• Daytime sleepiness was higher during the luteal phase from 09.00 to 16.30 h.
• The number of successful slow wave sleep naps increased in the luteal phase.
• Mean sleep propensity remained unchanged between the two phases.
• No differences in sleep patterns were observed during the night periods of 17.00-00.30 h and 01.00-08.30 h.
• Increased daytime sleepiness in the luteal phase may be linked to brain mechanisms involved in slow wave sleep.

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