The menopause is a natural process that every woman goes through, but that doesn't make it easy. With fluctuating hormone levels, women suffer from a range of symptoms including hot-flushes, insomnia, anxiety and headaches. All of these can seriously disrupt a woman's chances of getting a good night's sleep.

It's the time leading up to the menopause - known as the perimenopause - that causes so much trouble. Once a woman has gone through the menopause - that's 12 consecutive months without a period - she'll often find her symptoms improve.

There are several ways to make night-time more comfortable for women approaching the menopause. Raging hormone levels can mean anxiety is a problem. Avoiding caffeine in the run up to bedtime and indulging in a warm shower or bath, followed by drying off with a fluffy, soft towel will get you in the mood for a good night's sleep.

Choosing natural fill bedding andbed linen with temperature-regulating properties can help women suffering from hot flushes because of the way they help wick moisture away and control humidity in the area around your body. A temperature-regulating topper is also a great investment. In the lead up to the menopause women may suffer from abnormally heavy bleeding during their periods. So it's a wise decision to protect your mattress and topper by investing in a waterproof protector. And don't worry - a waterproof protector won't rustle and feel plasticky. The new generation of mattress protectors are as good as invisible, acting like an invisible shield as you sleep.