Men and women can have different sleep patterns due to a variety of biological, behavioural, and social factors. Women tend to sleep more than men, with women averaging about 20-30 minutes more sleep per night than men.
Women are more likely to experience sleep disturbances, including insomnia, restless leg syndrome, and sleep apnea, than men. Hormonal changes during the menstrual cycle and menopause can affect a woman's sleep quality and quantity. Pregnancy can also disrupt a woman's sleep due to physical discomfort and changes in hormone levels.
Women tend to have more slow-wave sleep, which is important for physical restoration and healing, while men have more REM sleep, which is important for cognitive processing and memory consolidation. Men are more likely to snore and experience sleep apnea, which can affect sleep quality and duration. Men also have a higher risk of developing sleep-related disorders, such as sleepwalking and night terrors.
Social factors, such as work schedules and caregiving responsibilities, can also affect sleep patterns differently for men and women. Women may have more responsibilities for caregiving, which can disrupt their sleep patterns and lead to sleep deprivation.
In general, both men and women can benefit from good sleep hygiene practices, such as avoiding screens before bed, creating a comfortable sleep environment, and establishing a consistent sleep routine.
© Vygr Media Private Limited 2022. All Rights Reserved.