How Does Insomnia Affect Women?
April 05, 2022
Sleep problems can affect anyone, but women are more likely to experience insomnia than men.
Poor sleep can provoke daytime sleepiness and contribute to a range of conditions that affect physical and mental health.
According to Tara Chadwick, M.D., a gynecologist and specialty trained surgeon at The Gynecology Center at Mercy, 40 to 60% of menopausal women have sleep issues.
"Part of it is the loss of estrogen that comes with the transition of menopause. We also know there's a neuropeptide in the brain that controls wakefulness and thermoregulation is increased in menopause, so that oftentimes can lead to causes of insomnia or other sleep issues," Dr. Chadwick said.
Other medical issues insomnia is linked to include sleep apnea, obesity and incontinence.
Dr. Chadwick notes that it is important to identify the cause of insomnia and talk to your doctor about how to best treat it.
About Mercy
Founded in 1874 in Downtown Baltimore by the Sisters of Mercy, Mercy Medical Center is a 183-licensed bed, acute care, university-affiliated teaching hospital. Mercy has been recognized as a high-performing Maryland hospital (U.S. News & World Report); has achieved an overall 5-Star quality, safety, and patient experience rating (Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services); is A-rated for Hospital Safety (Leapfrog Hospital Safety Grade); and is certified by the American Nurses Credentialing Center as a Magnet™ hospital. Mercy Health Services is a not-for-profit health system and the parent company of Mercy Medical Center and Mercy Personal Physicians.
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