Do Women Need More Sleep Than Men?

Sleep isn’t just a nice-to-have – it’s essential for your overall health. A good night’s rest can support your heart health, lower your risk of chronic diseases, and keep your brain sharp.

Most adults aim for at least seven hours of sleep a night, but interestingly, women often need a bit more than men. That’s because women’s sleep quality can be disrupted more easily, thanks to factors like hormonal changes, slightly faster body clocks, and the extra stress that often comes from caregiving. Our Sleep Study confirmed that women do tend to sleep slightly longer, with 35% getting the recommended 7–8 hours per night, compared to just 33% of men.

In this article, we’ll explore the latest research on women’s sleep and uncover why their sleep needs can differ.

Here’s what Jim Horne, Director of the Sleep Research Centre, shared with the MailOnline:

Women’s brains are wired differently, so their sleep needs tend to be slightly greater. Women often multi-task – they do more at once and are more flexible – using more of their brain than men do. For women, poor sleep is strongly linked to higher levels of psychological distress, and greater feelings of hostility, depression, and anger. In contrast, these emotions are not as strongly connected to sleep disruption in men.

Let’s explore the potential reasons why women need more sleep than men:

A sleep study shows that women have a 40 percent higher risk of experiencing and developing sleep disorders than men, such as insomnia, restless legs syndrome, and sleep apnea. These conditions can all affect sleep quality, causing women to need extra sleep to make up for the time lost during the night.

In addition to sleep disorders, insufficient rest can take a toll on mental health, making women more susceptible to issues like anxiety and depression.

• Pregnancy: With extra weight, energy demands, hormonal shifts, restless legs, and endless bathroom trips, mums-to-be often struggle to get the restful sleep they need. Check out our tips on managing pregnancy insomnia for a better night’s rest.
• Menopause: During menopause, hormonal changes, hot flushes, night sweats, and even a higher risk of sleep apnea can make deep sleep harder to come by, often leaving women feeling tired and in need of extra rest.

According to one study, women and men may have different views on sleep, which explains the difference in their sleep needs. Women are more likely to prioritise their well-being and health, placing more importance on time aside to relax and wind down. This can include recognising the importance of evening routines and making time for an earlier bedtime.

While sleep needs can vary from person to person, women may benefit from just a bit more rest than men, thanks to the unique demands on their bodies and minds. So, ladies, don’t feel guilty about pressing that snooze button – those extra 20 minutes of sleep are well deserved!

Curious about how much sleep you need? Try our helpful Sleep Calculator to find out.