Unbalanced measurements before menstruation

Question: Hi, I have now used the Garmin Fenix ​​7s for 7 weeks. I am 48 years old. VO2max of 42. Stress average of 26. Resting heart rate 57, body battery 78, sleep 79, HRV balanced between 30–34 until two days ago. Then it became unbalanced at 28 (a lot of stress at night) and it still is. Could this have something to do with the fact that I’m expecting my period within two or three days? I sweat at night and am hot/unwell (happens every time). I know I let myself get stressed by bad readings on the clock. What should I do? Skip leisurely exercise and just sit still? Have also been coughing quite a bit for a week and a half. I took a covid test, but it was negative.

Answer: Hello! It is interesting that you have started measuring and can now see what your body is telling you. Since you have only measured for 7 weeks, it will be exciting to follow what happens over time. My experience is that menstruation can give poorer readings. The same can also be seen in beginning menopause, or perimenopause. Symptoms of perimenopause are night sweats, reduced tolerance, sleep disturbance and eventually irregular periods. Then the night’s sleep is often poor, body battery lower, and HRV (heart rate variability) drops. A possible infection could also affect the heart rate measurements with poorer HRV. My advice is therefore to take it easy and see to it until the cough is better and you are done with this period. Walks in nature are beneficial. Start training again when you have recovered from the cough. If you continue to sweat at night and your HRV does not rise again, it may be useful to see your doctor and consider whether you should try treatment for perimenopause.

Regards, Dr. Ragnhild