Do Women Need More Sleep Than Men? Insights from a Sleep Psychologist

In contemporary wellness discussions, particularly on social platforms like TikTok and Instagram, it's often claimed that women require an additional one to two hours of sleep compared to men. However, what does scientific research really say about this assertion? Understanding the nuances of sleep needs involves exploring biological, psychological, and societal factors, as well as how sleep is measured.

Scientific studies show that women tend to sleep slightly longer and more deeply than men, but the differences are modest. Objective measurements, such as wearable sleep trackers and polysomnography, typically reveal women sleep around 20 minutes more per night than men across various age groups. For example, women aged 40-44 slept approximately 23 to 29 minutes longer than men in some studies. Additionally, women experience more time in deep sleep, which is crucial for physical and mental restoration.

Despite these findings, many women report poorer sleep quality and are significantly more likely to be diagnosed with insomnia — about 40% more than men. This discrepancy highlights that laboratory data may not fully reflect real-world sleep experiences. Factors such as mental health issues like depression and anxiety, medication use, hormonal fluctuations, and social roles influence sleep quality and duration in women.

Biological factors also play a role. Sleep disruptions become more common during puberty, pregnancy, and perimenopause, largely due to hormonal shifts involving estrogen and progesterone. Fluctuations in these hormones can lead to sleep disturbances such as waking in the early hours or difficulty returning to sleep. Conditions like thyroid disorders and iron deficiency, which are more prevalent in women, further contribute to disrupted sleep and fatigue.

Psychologically, women face higher risks of mental health challenges that impact sleep, including depression, anxiety, and trauma-related disorders. These issues often lead to worry and rumination, affecting sleep patterns. Moreover, women are more likely to be prescribed antidepressants, which can influence sleep quality.

Societal expectations and responsibilities also influence sleep health. Women often carry a disproportionate burden of caregiving and emotional labor, with some estimates indicating they perform about nine more hours of unpaid work weekly than men. This workload reduces opportunities for restful sleep and daytime rest, intensifying the cycle of fatigue. Additionally, health issues such as iron deficiency, and the experiences of women in perimenopause—balancing work, family responsibilities, and menopausal symptoms—highlight the complex challenges women face in feeling fully rested.

While research indicates women may sleep longer and deeper under controlled conditions, real-life circumstances often hinder their ability to feel restored. Thus, the question of whether women inherently need more sleep is nuanced. Overall, women tend to need slightly more sleep, but they require greater societal support, understanding, and resources to meet these needs. Recognizing the interplay of biology, mental health, and social factors is essential for addressing sleep disparities and promoting better health for women.

*Source: More information available at https://medicalxpress.com/news/2025-07-women-men-psychologist.html