Women and sleep
In 2005, the National Sleep Foundation’s Sleep in America poll stated that women report more problems with falling asleep and staying asleep during the night than men. The biological changes a woman experiences can affect how well she sleeps. The changing hormones that occur during menstrual cycles, pregnancy and menopause have an effect on sleep.
Nocturnal sleep-related eating disorder, although uncommon, is most often seen in women. When this occurs, the part of the brain responsible for memory is asleep. The person does not remember eating. It can be caused by some medications used for insomnia or depression. It can be associated with disrupted sleep caused from other disorders.
Sleep during pregnancy
Problems experienced during pregnancy increase as the pregnancy progresses. Sleep can be disrupted by body aches, nausea, leg cramps, fetus movements and heartburn, as well as anxiety and worry. Women who have never snored may begin to snore. This is due to increased swelling of the nasal passage. If the snoring is severe and associated with periods of not breathing, you should consult your physician. This may indicate a lack of oxygen for you and your baby.
Restless leg syndrome has been reported during the third trimester. It may be caused by a decrease in iron or folate. RLS makes it difficult to fall asleep due to an uncomfortable urge to move your legs. The sensation stops with movement, but will begin again when your limb is still. A warm bath may help symptoms. RLS generally ends after delivery.
Sleep continues to be disrupted after delivery, especially if the mother is nursing. Mothers should nap when the baby naps. Sleep satisfaction improves when the baby has established a regular routine.
Sleep and menopause
Women report the most sleep problems from pre-menopause to menopause. This period is associated with significant hormone fluctuations. Symptoms include hot flashes, moodiness, difficulty concentrating and sleep-disordered breathing. Sleep tips for this time of life include:
- Eat healthy. Avoid large meals near bedtime. Spicy foods and alcohol may trigger hot flashes. Foods with soy (soy milk, tofu, soybean nuts) may minimize hot flashes.
- Avoid nicotine, caffeine and alcohol.
- Dress lightly for bed. Avoid heavy blankets. Keep the room cool.
- Try to reduce stress and worry with relaxation techniques, massage and exercise.
Post-menopausal sleep
Post-menopausal women report being less satisfied with their sleep due to insomnia symptoms. One study suggested that women slept better if they exercised in the morning rather than afternoon or evening. This age group is 3.5 times more likely to develop snoring and sleep apnea (not breathing adequately during sleep). This disorder can lead to difficulty controlling blood pressure, heart problems, stroke and daytime sleepiness. Sleep apnea is diagnosed with a sleep study and can be treated.
Other symptoms
There are a number of symptoms that can affect sleep and should be discussed with your health care provider regardless of your age or sex. These include daytime tiredness, snoring, pauses in breathing, restless sleep, leg movements, acid reflux or insomnia. Treatment is available that can help with your well-being, quality of life and improved sleep.
The National Sleep Foundation is a good source of information for people of all ages. Its Web site is www.sleepfoundation.org.
Janet Kenter is coordinator, of the St. Patrick Hospital Sleep Center. Questions? Please email your questions for our healthcare providers at info@saintpatrick.org. Remember, we cannot give medical advice.
|
 |
 |
Add your comment now! Write your comment in the form below.
(Email address is for verification only. If you'd like to email a story, look for the link above)
ge wrote on Sep 23, 2008 11:00 AM: