Gender Differences in Sleep Health Need More Study

Sleep research must examine sex and gender differences, with more study of sleep-related problems that affect women as well as potential treatments, according to a report by the Society for Women’s Health Research (SWHR) published in the July 2014 issue of the Journal for Women’s Health. SWHR researchers found that there are not just gender differences in the way symptoms are reported, but that biological factors also drive sleep behavior and disorders in women and men.

“Our findings show that women sleep differently than men and that sleep health, especially for women, needs greater national attention. A variety of biological, environmental, and social factors influence how women and men experience sleep differently,” said Christine Carter, PhD, MPH, the SWHR Vice President of Scientific Affairs and a co-author of the report. “We need to know more about these factors so we can tailor better lifestyle recommendations and medical treatments to account for those differences.”

“Hormonal and physical changes during a woman’s lifespan, such as during puberty, pregnancy, and menopause, can impact her sleep and lead to clinical disorders. If a woman is concerned about her sleep health, she should bring up her concerns with her physician,” said Monica Mallampalli, PhD, MS, the SWHR Director of Scientific Programs and a co-author of the report.

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