Question: I am a woman in my 50s who seems to be able to sleep well only every other night. If I get good sleep one night, the next I can’t seem to fall asleep. How can I get out of this cycle?

Dr. Cwynar's answer:
Sleep is soooooo important. I find most of my female patients in their late 40's and early 50's start this cycle. Most of the time its hormonal. For women, a bit of over the counter progesterone at bedtime can help. Make sure your room temperature is cool. Setting the temperature at 68 degrees or below while using a blanket to keep warm seems to facilitate sleep. Sleep in complete darkness, and try not to drink anything right before bed that would cause you to wake up to urininate during the night.