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Why Women Have More Difficulty With Sleep—and What To Do
Unfortunately, women are more likely to struggle with sleep than men. According to Dr. Kathryn Ash, a sleep disorder specialist, “women pay a heavier price for lack of sleep than men do.” This disparity is evident in the statistics: women are twice as likely to have high blood pressure due to poor sleep quality.
There are several reasons why women have more difficulty with sleep. Firstly, hormonal changes during menstruation, pregnancy, and menopause can disrupt sleep patterns. The National Sleep Foundation notes that “women pay a higher price for lack of sleep than men do.” Women’s bodies are more susceptible to the negative effects of sleep deprivation due to these natural biological processes.
In addition, women may be more prone to developing sleep disorders like insomnia, restless leg syndrome, and sleep apnea, which can exacerbate existing health issues. Ash highlights that “there are all kinds of challenges that women face that will cause their sleep to be actually less quality.”
Men and women differ in the way they experience sleep disorders. Men tend to struggle with snoring and sleep apnea, while women tend to experience more symptoms of anxiety and depression, increased daytime sleepiness, and difficulty concentrating.
The consequences of inadequate sleep can have devastating effects on overall health. It can lead to moodiness, impaired cognitive function, and a heightened risk of chronic diseases like heart disease, diabetes, and stroke.
To improve your sleep, Dr. Ash emphasizes the importance of consistency in wake-up time and exposure to natural light during the day. She advises against sleeping in on weekends and instead suggests a relaxing evening routine.
The National Sleep Foundation recommends creating a peaceful sleep environment by avoiding electronics and caffeine before bedtime, as well as maintaining a consistent sleep schedule. It’s also essential to address stress and anxiety, which can further disrupt sleep patterns.
Some popular apps like Calm, Headspace, Insight Timer, and Balance have been shown to be effective in reducing sleep disturbances in menopausal women, even if actigraphs don’t agree with this finding. Additionally, you should consider incorporating calming activities, such as reading or taking a warm bath before bedtime.
In conclusion, women are more likely to struggle with sleep due to various biological and social factors.
Source: https://www.forbes.com/sites/judystone/2025/03/10/why-women-struggle-with-sleep-tips/
