Women and Sleep- Why Women Struggle More with Sleep?

For many women, a good night's sleep feels like a mythical creature- whispered about, dreamt of, but rarely encountered. While sleep deprivation plagues everyone occasionally, studies consistently show women are more likely to experience chronic sleep problems. Why is this the case? Buckle up, because we're diving into the world of women and sleep,exploring the science behind the struggle and uncovering ways to reclaim those precious hours of slumber.

Why Women Might Be Hardwired for Less Sleep?

While the exact amount of sleep needed varies by individual, research suggests women might benefit from slightly more shut-eye than men. Here's why:

Our hormones play a starring role in sleep regulation. Fluctuations in estrogen and progesterone, particularly during a woman's menstrual cycle and menopause, can disrupt sleep patterns. Pregnant women often experience sleep disturbances due to hormonal changes and physical discomfort.

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Secondly, the societal pressures women face often translate into sleep deficits. Juggling careers, families, and childcare can lead to chronic stress, a well-known sleep disruptor. Women may also prioritize the needs of others over their own rest, leaving them sleep-deprived. These factors combined create a situation where women might require more sleep than men to function at their best.

Psychologist Sumalatha Vasudeva from Bangalore's Gleneagles BGS Hospital talks about the multifaceted nature of women's obligations, emphasizing their propensity for multitasking and caregiving. 

The Multifaceted Challenges Women Face

Biology isn't the only culprit. Women often juggle multiple responsibilities: careers, families, childcare - leading to higher stress levels, a known sleep disruptor. Caregiver duties, especially at night, can further fragment sleep. And let's not forget societal expectations- women often feel pressured to "do it all," leaving less time for prioritizing sleep.

How Sleep Deprivation Hurts Women's Health

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Chronic sleep deprivation isn't just about feeling tired. For women, it can have a ripple effect on their overall health:

• Increased Risk of Chronic Conditions: Studies suggest a link between sleep deprivation and conditions like heart disease, diabetes, and obesity.
• Mental Health Impact: Insufficient sleep can worsen symptoms of anxiety and depression, creating a vicious cycle.
• Cognitive Decline: Sleep is crucial for memory consolidation and learning. Chronic sleep problems can impair cognitive function.
• Weakened Immune System: Sleep deprivation can make you more susceptible to illness and hinder your body's ability to fight infection.

Dr. Arun Kotaru, a sleep specialist at Artemis Hospital, explains in an interview with India Today that most adults need 7-9 hours of sleep per night, but women may require an additional 20 minutes. And this is the reason why!

Strategies to break free from Insomnia

The good news: you can reclaim your right to a good night's sleep! Here are some tips:

• Prioritize Sleep: Set a regular sleep schedule, even on weekends, and create a relaxing bedtime routine.
• Manage Stress: Develop healthy stress management techniques like meditation or yoga to unwind before bed.
• Embrace a Sleep-Friendly Environment: Make your bedroom dark, quiet, and cool for optimal sleep.
• Limit Screen Time Before Bed: The blue light emitted from electronic devices can disrupt sleep patterns.
• Regular Exercise: Physical activity can improve sleep quality, but avoid strenuous exercise too close to bedtime.
• Seek Professional Help: If sleep problems persist, consult our Gytree experts consult our Gytree experts to rule out any underlying medical conditions. 

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Visit the Gytree Shop to purchase Gytree’s Sound Sleep Gummies. Gytree’s Total Sound Sleep gummies are crafted to provide more than just sleep. These gummies help unwind, relax & bust stress because of the unique blend of Ashwagandha and Melatonin.

Don't underestimate the power of sleep. By prioritizing sleep hygiene and addressing the unique challenges women face,you can break the cycle of sleep deprivation and wake up feeling refreshed, empowered, and ready to take on the day.Sweet dreams!