Women are experiencing increased sleep loss compared to men, a substantial difference in sleep patterns.
In a startling revelation, studies have shown that women are more likely to experience insomnia than men, with a significant difference of 58%[1]. This article delves into the factors contributing to this disparity.
Hormonal fluctuations, life roles, and psychological factors all play a role in the higher prevalence of insomnia in women. Hormonal influences, particularly during the menstrual cycle, pregnancy, and menopause, significantly impact sleep quality and quantity[2][3].
During the menstrual cycle, hormonal changes can cause sleep disturbances, with some women experiencing insomnia due to symptoms like cramps and mood swings. In pregnancy, hormonal changes can lead to sleep disturbances, with increased levels of progesterone causing drowsiness early on but discomfort, frequent urination, and anxiety impairing sleep quality as the pregnancy progresses[3].
Menopause, a major hormonal transition, significantly impacts a woman's body, including sleep disturbance. The fluctuating levels of oestrogen during menopause are associated with night sweats, hot flashes, and mood changes, which can severely disrupt sleep, contributing to insomnia[3].
Women often assume multiple roles, such as caregiver and worker, leading to increased stress and reduced opportunities for restful sleep[4]. Additionally, women may experience higher levels of stress, anxiety, and depression, which are closely linked to insomnia[2][4].
Understanding these factors can help in developing targeted strategies to improve sleep quality in women. Recognizing gender-specific issues related to sleep quality and quantity is crucial for both women and healthcare providers in developing effective strategies to improve sleep health and overall well-being[5].
It is important to note that approximately one-third of people in the US are reportedly not getting enough sleep[6]. Poor sleep during pregnancy puts women at increased risk of maternal and fetal poor health, including an increased inflammatory state for women and increased risk of fetal growth problems[7].
Symptoms of pre-menstrual syndrome (PMS) and pre-menstrual dysphoric disorder (PMDD) can include difficulty getting to sleep, frequent awakenings, non-restorative sleep, and nightmares[8]. During perimenopause, women experience night sweats for at least four or five years on average, and the prevalence of insomnia in women aged 40 years and older during menopause is reported as high as 60% in studies[9].
In conclusion, hormonal fluctuations throughout a woman's lifespan significantly impact the quality and quantity of a woman's sleep. Recognizing and addressing these factors can help improve sleep health and overall well-being for women.
References: [1] https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC6847015/ [2] https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC6378701/ [3] https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC7359905/ [4] https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC6767148/ [5] https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC6847015/ [6] https://www.cdc.gov/sleep/data_statistics.html [7] https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC7359905/ [8] https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC6246727/ [9] https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC6378701/
- The significance of hormonal fluctuations in nature, particularly during various stages of a woman's life such as menstrual cycle, pregnancy, and menopause, greatly affects health-and-wellness, causing sleep disturbances and contributing to the high prevalence of insomnia in women.
- Technology can be a beneficial tool in understanding and tackling women's health issues, including insomnia, by providing scientific data and insights that aid in the development of mental-health and health-and-wellness strategies.
- As space exploration advances, it is essential to consider the impact of weightlessness, sleep schedules, and psychological stressors on women's health, as these factors could potentially exacerbate sleep disturbances.
- The future of sleep health and wellness lies in acknowledging and addressing gender-specific issues and tailoring strategies to cater to the unique needs of women, particularly in areas like women's health, mental health, and sleep health.
- In partnership with healthcare providers, women can adopt science-backed techniques for achieving restorative sleep, ultimately improving their overall health and contributing positively to the well-being of their families and communities.
