With age, our sleep cycles tend to wane. The amount of time you need to sleep shortens the older you get, and this is true for both sexes. But the drastic difference between them is the hormonal changes that women exclusively experience, which also serve to affect sleep, along with the sleep problems that are substantially more predominant to women. To learn more contact your local sleep expert Dr. Jeremy McConnell of Florida Sleep Specialists in Bradenton and Sarasota, FL.
Hormonal Changes
It is doubly as likely that women will have trouble falling and staying asleep than men. A lot of these difficulties can be traced back to reaching certain hormonal markers that most women will have to contend with. Menstrual cycles are the first of these.
The premenstrual phase brings with it physical symptoms that can make sleep difficult, especially if these are severe. Symptoms such as headaches, bloating, and abdominal cramping. Some women may experience their sleep perturbed in other ways during this time, like experiencing more vivid dreams and daytime fatigue.
The hormonal changes that take place during pregnancy are also attributed to similar daytime fatigue alongside the need to sleep more. This is further exacerbated later in the pregnancy due to the physical changes, which make sleep in certain positions an impossibility.
During menopause, the decreased levels of estrogen can bring along physical manifestations that intrude into an already light sleep.
Post-menopause sleep is further fragmented, making it difficult to maintain a full night of sleep. It's during this time that sleep disorders are made more frequent.
Sleep Help in Bradenton, FL
No matter the age, common sleeping problems affect women more than they do men. Problems that are rooted in afflictions that are also largely more prevalent in females, such as depression and anxiety.
The good news is that at every stage, at every age, you have access to help. If lack of sleep is a problem and you believe you may be experiencing a sleeping condition, then it's time to seek the advice of a professional. Make an appointment today with Dr. Jeremy McConnell of Florida Sleep Specialists in Bradenton and Sarasota, FL, by dialing (941) 792-8383.