Why Women Need More Sleep Than Men – Researchers

Researchers at Duke University Durham, North Carolina, United States, have discovered that women typically require more sleep than men due to the greater complexity and activity of their brains.

They discovered that women tend to multitask more throughout the day, using more brain capacity than men. This increased mental effort leads to a greater need for recovery during sleep, making sufficient rest crucial for women’s health.

The study also points out the psychological impacts of not getting enough sleep, indicating that women may experience higher levels of distress, such as feelings of depression and anger, when they lack adequate rest. Since women’s brains often work harder daily, the effects of sleep deprivation are more pronounced for them.

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This research highlights the specific health challenges women encounter and stresses the importance of prioritizing sleep for overall wellness. While individual sleep needs vary, it is generally true that women require more sleep than men. Insufficient sleep can negatively impact a woman’s health.

Several factors contribute to women’s increased need for sleep. For example, their bodies undergo changes that men’s do not, such as during pregnancy and menopause, which can be physically demanding. Hormonal fluctuations from menstrual cycles can also affect sleep requirements.
Moreover, in many households, women may be busier than their male partners, balancing work, childcare, and household management. Sleep issues affect both women and men, but women often experience sleep disorders more frequently.

The causes of these sleep disorders include menstrual cycles, pregnancy, menopause, aging, chronic illnesses, and waking up at night to urinate. As a result, while some women get enough restorative sleep, many do not.

On average, women need between seven to nine hours of sleep to feel alert in the morning, though this can change based on their health and life stage.

Pregnant women may require eight to ten hours of sleep each night and should aim for at least seven hours after giving birth to aid recovery and help avoid postpartum depression. However, this can be tough with a newborn.

In contrast, older women may need less sleep than younger ones. Adequate sleep is vital for health and well-being. Women need more sleep than men for various reasons, including hormonal fluctuations, physical changes, and different activity levels.

Ultimately, the amount of sleep each woman needs depends on many factors. If a woman wakes up feeling tired, it may indicate she is not getting enough restful sleep. For those juggling careers, home responsibilities, or personal ambitions, recognizing the importance of quality rest is essential to avoid burnout and enhance mental health.

Thus, before deciding to stay up late or push through fatigue, consider that rest is crucial for maintaining cognitive function and emotional balance.