Feeling tired all the time isn’t just about needing more sleep. For many women, constant fatigue and low energy are daily struggles that affect work, relationships, and overall well-being.
If you’re always feeling drained even after a good night’s rest, you’re not alone. Fatigue is one of the most common reasons women visit their doctors, and it often points to something more than just being busy.
Common Causes of Constant Fatigue and Low Energy in Women
There are many reasons a woman may feel constantly tired. Some are physical, while others are emotional or related to lifestyle. Understanding these causes can help identify the best way to feel better.
1. Hormonal Imbalance
Hormones play a big role in how a woman feels every day. When estrogen, progesterone, or thyroid hormones are out of balance, energy levels can drop.
For example, hypothyroidism, an underactive thyroid, can slow metabolism and cause ongoing tiredness, according to the American Thyroid Association.
Women going through perimenopause or menopause often report fatigue as one of their top symptoms. This happens as estrogen levels start to decline, affecting sleep, mood, and energy.
Click here to learn more about shortness of breath and fatigue in women.
2. Iron Deficiency or Anemia
Low iron levels can lead to anemia, which means your body isn’t getting enough oxygen to its tissues. Women are more likely to develop anemia due to monthly blood loss from periods, especially if they have heavy periods. According to the CDC, iron deficiency is the most common nutritional deficiency in the U.S., and it affects more women than men.
Signs of anemia include tiredness, shortness of breath, pale skin, and feeling weak.
Click here to learn more about being tired all the time: blood tests.
3. Poor Sleep Quality
It’s possible to get 8 hours of sleep and still wake up feeling exhausted. Sleep disorders like insomnia or sleep apnea can disrupt deep rest. Women are more likely than men to have sleep issues, especially during pregnancy, postpartum, or menopause.
Stress, anxiety, and overthinking can also prevent the body from fully relaxing during sleep, leading to next-day fatigue.
Click here to learn more about constant fatigue and low energy in men.
4. Chronic Stress and Mental Health
Mental health issues like depression and anxiety don’t just affect mood; they also drain energy. Constant worrying, sadness, or feeling overwhelmed can lead to both mental and physical tiredness. The Mayo Clinic notes that fatigue is a key symptom of major depressive disorder.
Daily stress from work, parenting, or caregiving can also take a toll on your energy reserves.
Click here to learn more about what glucose turns into: a complete guide.
5. Nutritional Deficiencies
Lack of key nutrients like vitamin D, B12, and magnesium can lead to constant fatigue and low energy in women. These nutrients help the body produce energy, support brain function, and regulate mood.
Eating a diet high in processed foods but low in fruits, vegetables, and protein can leave you feeling sluggish. Women with digestive issues may also struggle to absorb nutrients, even if they eat well.
Click here to learn more about no energy and fatigue: causes and solutions.
Lifestyle Habits That Drain Energy
Besides medical causes, everyday habits can affect how you feel.
- Too much caffeine: It might give a quick boost, but relying on coffee or energy drinks can mess with your sleep.
- Not enough physical activity: Light daily movement actually increases energy by improving circulation and reducing stress.
- Overcommitting: Saying yes to too many responsibilities without rest breaks can lead to burnout.
Making small changes to daily routines may help restore energy levels over time.
Click here to learn more about extreme fatigue with no other symptoms.
When to See a Doctor
If you’ve been feeling exhausted for more than a few weeks and simple changes haven’t helped, it may be time to see a doctor. Especially if your fatigue is:
- Interfering with daily life
- Getting worse over time
- Paired with symptoms like hair loss, brain fog, weight changes, or mood swings
These could be signs of an underlying health issue that needs treatment.
Click here to learn more about whether vitamin D deficiency can cause fatigue.
What to Expect During Your Visit
When you visit a doctor about constant fatigue and low energy in women, they’ll usually start by asking about your symptoms, daily routine, and medical history. Be ready to share:
- How long have you been tired
- Your sleep habits
- Any recent life changes or stress
- Your diet and exercise routine
They may order blood tests to check for anemia, thyroid issues, vitamin levels, or signs of infection. Depending on the results, you may be referred to a specialist or given lifestyle and diet suggestions. Medication or supplements may also be recommended.
Click here to learn more about why you might be feeling exhausted all the time.
A Word from GetMe Treated
Constant fatigue and low energy in women are often brushed off as part of a busy life, but they can signal real medical or emotional issues.
Paying attention to your body, getting proper tests, and making small lifestyle changes can help you feel more like yourself again. Don’t wait too long to ask for help; feeling tired all the time doesn’t have to be your new normal.
Click here to learn more about whether children can drink sencha tea.
FAQs About Fatigue in Women
Can hormones really make me tired all the time?
Yes, hormones like thyroid, estrogen, and progesterone affect metabolism, sleep, and energy. Imbalances can lead to constant fatigue.
Is it normal to feel tired during my period?
Yes, especially if you have heavy bleeding. Iron levels may drop, which affects energy. However, if it happens every month, you should get checked for anemia.
Can being overweight make me feel more tired?
Yes. Extra weight can put stress on your body, reduce sleep quality, and lead to fatigue. Weight gain is also linked to hormone imbalances.
Does drinking coffee make fatigue worse?
Too much caffeine can interfere with sleep and cause energy crashes later in the day. One or two cups are fine, but don’t overdo it.
Is fatigue a sign of depression?
It can be. Feeling tired all the time, especially with low mood or loss of interest, is a common symptom of depression.
What vitamins help with energy?
B12, vitamin D, magnesium, and iron are important. If you’re deficient, supplements can help, but it’s best to get tested first.