Women's Sleep Needs: Why 8 Hours May Not Be Enough

Many of us have heard the recommendation that we need 7-8 hours of sleep each night to function at our best, but for women, this may not be enough. Despite getting a full eight hours of sleep, many women still wake up feeling tired in the morning. According to Dr.Sonam Simpatwar, a gynaecologist at Mumbai's Dr. Babasaheb Ambedkar Smarak Hospital, several studies suggest that women generally have a greater need for sleep compared to men. So why is it that women need more sleep? Before delving into the reasons behind this, it's important to understand just how vital good quality sleep is for overall health.

Dr. Nivedita Kumar, a sleep specialist at Magniflex India, highlights that sleep is a critical factor for good health. Not only does good sleep improve brain performance, but it also promotes better heart health, metabolism, skin and hair quality, and overall longevity.

Quality sleep can also help with emotional regulation, as healthy sleepers tend to have reduced levels of anxiety and depression. On the flip side, prolonged periods of poor sleep can result in serious health issues such as dementia, Alzheimer's, obesity, heart disease, and stroke.

  Dr.Arun Kotaru, a consultant pulmonologist and sleep medicine specialist at Artemis Hospital, further emphasizes the importance of quality sleep for both physical and mental health. He explains that during sleep, the body undergoes essential processes such as tissue repair, muscle growth, and hormone regulation. Chronic sleep deprivation can have significant adverse effects on cognitive function, memory, and decision-making abilities, ultimately leading to decreased productivity and an increased risk of accidents. As we age, our sleep requirements change. While newborns and toddlers require the most sleep, adults typically need 7-9 hours of sleep per night for optimal health and functioning. Even as we get older, older adults still require around 7-8 hours of sleep per night. 

 Dr. Kumar points out that sleep patterns shift as we age, with less time spent in deep REM stages of sleep as we get older. Circadian rhythms also change, leading to earlier bedtimes and awakenings. For individuals over 40, significant changes in sleep patterns may occur. 

Recent research has indicated that women may need around 20 minutes more sleep than men. This is because sleep is crucial for the brain to recover and repair itself, and women may need more time to recover from the demands of daily activities.

In conclusion, it is clear that women's sleep needs are different from men's, and it is important to prioritize quality sleep for overall health and well-being. Ensuring that you get enough sleep each night can have a significant impact on your physical and mental health, productivity, and overall quality of life. So, the next time you feel tired even after a full night's sleep, remember that your body may be telling you that it needs a little extra rest. Listen to your body and prioritize sleep for a healthier, happier you.