Post by : Saif Rahman

Have you ever considered why women seem to need a bit more sleep compared to men? A Mumbai doctor asserts that it isn't about laziness—it’s biological. Dr. Manan Vora, an expert in orthopaedic surgery and sports medicine, pointed out that women's bodies inherently demand more rest due to hormonal influences.

In a recent Instagram video, Dr. Vora mentioned that women typically require approximately 20 additional minutes of sleep each day. This difference is attributed to internal bodily cycles, particularly hormonal changes occurring during menstruation, pregnancy, and menopause which impact how women achieve and maintain sleep.

Dr. Vora shared, “It’s 7 am, I'm preparing breakfast for my wife—she’s still sleeping. Did you know women need more sleep than men? Generally, they need about 20 minutes more every day. Why? Because of hormones. Periods, pregnancy, and menopause affect their sleep. It’s not laziness. It’s just biological.”

Hormonal fluctuations can disrupt sleep routines in women, making it challenging to fall asleep or causing frequent awakenings throughout the night. Consequently, even with the standard eight hours of sleep, women may still feel fatigued or unrested, as the overall quality of sleep can be compromised, not just the amount.

Experts agree that quality sleep is crucial for overall health. It aids in bodily repair, supports the immune system, and enhances cognitive function. For women, who frequently juggle various commitments, inadequate sleep can lead to fatigue, stress, and hormonal imbalances.

Dr. Vora noted that society often overlooks this essential need. Many women grapple with feelings of guilt over wanting additional rest, perceiving it as laziness or unproductiveness. However, science underscores that women's sleep requirements are distinct and deserve acknowledgment. “That extra sleep isn’t a luxury,” he stated. “It’s a biological necessity.”

Sleep specialists have advised on indicators of sufficient rest. Dr. Michelle Drerup from the Cleveland Clinic asserted that assessing your daytime feelings is more telling than merely counting sleep hours. To evaluate sleep quality, monitor your energy levels in the late morning.

She explained, “The ideal time to assess whether you got adequate sleep isn’t immediately upon waking. Instead, check how you feel later in the morning. Can you concentrate? Are you feeling energized? That’s a sign of proper rest.”

Dr. Drerup further highlighted that drowsiness right after lunch or difficulties in concentration could indicate insufficient sleep. If such signs are frequent, it’s a cue to enhance sleep practices—by going to bed earlier, minimizing screen exposure before sleep, and creating a tranquil sleep environment.

Research consistently shows that women are more prone to sleep disturbances due to hormonal transitions. Many women endure discomfort, cramps, or emotional fluctuations during their menstrual cycles that affect slumber. Pregnancy often introduces physical discomfort and frequent urination that disrupts sleep. Menopause imposes additional challenges, with hot flashes and night sweats making rest elusive.

Given these circumstances, health professionals urge women to heed their bodies and prioritize rest. Quality sleep aids in regulating hormones, improving mood, and maintaining heart and brain health.

In summary, the takeaway from Dr. Vora and other specialists is unequivocal—women aren't lazy for requiring a little more sleep. Their bodies simply need more time for recovery and balance. “Getting adequate sleep is not a weakness,” Dr. Vora explained. “It’s an act of self-care.”

#Health #Wellness