The Silent Epidemic: Why Women Struggle to Sleep More Than Men
- Rachel Intrieri
- Mar 25
- 3 min read
In the realm of functional health, our primary goal is to identify the underlying cause of issues and initiate appropriate treatment. In my experience with patients suffering from temporomandibular joint disorder (TMJD), I have observed a correlation with insufficient sleep habits. This condition can affect both men and women, although its presentation is unique in women and somewhat difficult to identify.
Many men exhibit objective indicators of sleep-disordered breathing, such as snoring or sleep apnea. These airway obstructions are directly associated with a decline in cardiovascular and metabolic health. Conversely, women experiencing sleep disturbances often report increased jaw pain, daytime sleepiness, anxiety, and depression. A recent investigation by Forbes magazine highlighted that biological differences significantly contribute to the disparity in sleep quality between women and men.
One notable biological difference frequently addressed is the role of hormones. Women undergo fluctuations in hormone levels throughout various stages of their lives. Starting from the onset of menstruation, these hormonal changes occur, on average, every seven days. According to Stone (2025), when a woman’s menstrual cycle commences and bleeding begins, levels of progesterone and estrogen are low, which can impact her ability to achieve restful sleep. As these hormone levels increase during the follicular phase, some women may report feelings of fatigue. Optimal sleep is typically observed during the luteal phase, when hormone levels are at their peak, after which this cycle resets.
This hormonal cycle continues until menopause. One might assume that the reduction in hormonal fluctuations during this stage of life could be advantageous. However, the decrease in hormone levels, along with symptoms such as hot flashes, night sweats, and irritability, may leave postmenopausal women feeling less than optimal. Additionally, "after menopause, sleep apnea and restless leg syndrome become more common" (Stone, 2025).
The second distinction between men and women lies in their sleep cycles. While individuals may experience variations in their sleep patterns, research indicates general differences in the sleep experiences of women and men. Women typically fall asleep more quickly and engage in a higher proportion of restorative non-rapid eye movement (NREM) sleep. This type of restorative sleep is linked to physical healing and repair, enhances the immune system, regulates hormones, and supports cognitive health. In contrast, men tend to experience more rapid eye movement (REM) sleep, which is crucial for learning and memory, emotional regulation, and mental well-being (Sleep 2023).
Quality sleep is essential for both our mental and physical health; however, women may face unique challenges in achieving it. Stone (2025) recommends making specific habitual changes to enhance sleep quality. To address the underlying causes of functional issues, I utilize similar strategies throughout myofunctional therapy.
One effective recommendation is to limit screen time from devices such as televisions, phones, and computers to about one hour before bedtime. Instead, consider engaging in activities such as reading, having conversations with family members, or practicing breathing exercises recommended by your myofunctional therapist. Additionally, she discusses the importance of physical activity throughout the day. This could involve taking a brief walk, participating in a yoga class, or spending some time outdoors.
These significant differences between men and women provide valuable insights into how they approach challenges related to sleep. Understanding these distinctions enables healthcare providers, including myself, to enhance treatment and further tailor care plans. Taking incremental steps and seeking support from professionals can significantly enhance sleep quality; however, it is essential to acknowledge the biological challenges encountered each day.
Health Library. (2023, June 19). Sleep. Cleveland Clinic.
Stone, J. (2025, March 10). Why women have more difficulty with sleep—and what to do. Forbes. Retrieved March 25, 2025, from https://www.forbes.com/sites/judystone/2025/03/10/why-women-struggle-with-sleep- tips/.