Muireann O’Connell discusses insomnia and menopause at ieStyle Live

Virgin Media presenter Muireann O’Connell spoke openly about her struggles with sleep and perimenopause during the ieStyle Live event she hosted at Cork City Hall on Thursday.

O’Connell, who also fronts the podcast and TV show The Assembly, described waking at 4 am for a mid‑week alarm call and relying on melatonin and Nytol to manage her insomnia. She said the lack of sleep had left her feeling “in a fog” but noted that she works four days a week and has strong support from colleagues, many of whom are mothers.

The presenter highlighted how the narrative around menopause has shifted, noting that “before we were told it’s all in your head – now everything is menopause.” She expressed frustration with marketing that attaches menopause to products such as yoga classes and shampoo, while affirming her belief that hormone‑replacement therapy has saved lives.

O’Connell also recounted a recent medical visit where a doctor initially dismissed her perimenopause concerns, opting instead to test her thyroid. She praised the doctor’s expertise after further investigation confirmed thyroid issues.

During the event, O’Connell introduced keynote speakers Katriona O’Sullivan and Louise O’Neill and oversaw a fashion show curated by Corina Gaffey, while maintaining her signature long blonde bob styled by Virgin Media’s hair and make‑up artist Michelle.

Source: Irish Examiner. Photo: Michael D Beckwith / Pexels.