Why women may need more sleep and how this affects your well-being
A good night's sleep is crucial to a healthy lifestyle. However, women in particular report sleep problems more often than men. Various factors such as hormonal changes and additional stress can affect women's sleep. This article presents three case studies that highlight possible gender differences in sleep behavior and how these differences may impact the diagnosis and treatment of sleep disorders.
Why do women need more sleep than men?
There are several factors that can explain why women struggle with sleep problems more often than men. One of the most significant factors is hormonal changes, especially during the menstrual cycle, pregnancy and menopause. These hormonal changes can lead to insomnia, night sweats, and hot flashes, leading to difficulty sleeping.
In addition to the hormonal changes, women are also more likely to experience depression and anxiety and often have additional responsibilities such as childcare and housework. These factors can cause additional stress and make it difficult for women to relax and unwind before bed, ultimately affecting sleep quality.
Sleep needs can vary from person to person depending on factors such as age, lifestyle and general health. On average, it is recommended that both men and women get 7-9 hours of sleep per night.
Studies have found that women are more likely to report sleep problems than men. The American Academy of Sleep Medicine found that women are 1.4 times more likely to report symptoms of insomnia than men. According to a study from the USA...
- More women than men say they don't get enough sleep (54% vs. 42%)
- More women than men say it is very/somewhat difficult to fall asleep (50% vs. 38%) and stay asleep (55% vs. 43%)
- Women are also more likely to say that body pain or discomfort prevents them from getting a good night's sleep (45% vs. 32%)
- Fewer women than men say they are very satisfied with their sleep (15% vs. 23%)
- The following case studies examine the differences between men's and women's sleep, including how it is reported and possible reasons why women need more sleep.
Case study #1
A 2013 study examined gender differences in sleep duration among people with similar work and family responsibilities. The study found that "overall and across most life stages, women slept more than men." However, the gender difference was smaller when the effects of paid and unpaid work, naps, bedtimes and interruptions in sleep for care were taken into account. Women's sleep duration was more influenced by work and family responsibilities than men's. Interruptions due to caregiving, which are more common in women, affect sleep quality.
Case study #2
Researchers at Loughborough University Sleep Research Center found that women need "around 20 minutes more sleep per night" than men. Professor Jim Horne noted that "women's brains are wired differently...so their need for sleep will be slightly greater."
"In women, poor sleep is strongly associated with high psychological stress and greater feelings of hostility, depression and anger... In contrast, in men, these feelings were not associated with sleep disturbances to the same extent."
Case study #3
A 2014 research review highlighted the role of gender differences in sleep research, suggesting that there is a lack of research on gender differences in sleep disorders in women and potential gender biases exist. It found that women's risk of suffering from insomnia is 40% higher than men. Women are also at higher risk of developing restless legs syndrome (RLS) and sleep apnea, both of which can affect sleep quality.
Research also shows that differences in sleep behavior and sleep disorders can be caused not only by biological factors, but also by gender differences in symptom description. Identifying these differences between men and women has the potential to improve the diagnosis, treatment and prevention of sleep disorders and related conditions for everyone.
Conclusion
Adequate quality sleep is crucial for physical and mental health regardless of gender. Although research shows that women tend to need slightly more sleep than men, it is important that all adults get their recommended 7-9 hours of sleep per night.
To improve sleep quality, one can establish a regular sleep schedule, maintain a relaxing bedtime routine, and avoid caffeine and alcohol before bed. Prioritizing sleep can improve the overall health and well-being of men and women.
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