4 symptoms, factors, and more to understand about insomnia in women

Treatment Of Insomnia In Females in Manhattan Ny

Insomnia is estimated to affect approximately six out of ten adults. However, females are 40% more likely than males to experience this disorder, which is characterized by difficulties in falling asleep and/or staying asleep. In fact, being of the female sex is considered a risk factor for insomnia, along with advanced age (60 and older); comorbidities such as mental or physical health conditions; inconsistent work, personal, and travel schedules; and poor stress management.

To support effective treatment, the New York Center for Integrative Health in Manhattan and Stamford, Connecticut, appreciates the unique contributors to/ways that insomnia manifests in women versus men. Restoring your sleep quality also starts with completely understanding your overall health. We have highlighted four symptoms and factors and more about insomnia, one of the most common disorders we effectively diagnose, treat, and manage at our offices.

No. 1: Defining insomnia

At some point in our lives, we will experience symptoms of insomnia. It may take forever to fall asleep. We may keep waking up. Or we may wake up suddenly and be super alert well before the alarm clock is supposed to go off. A life stressor, such as the death of a loved one, divorce, or job loss, generally triggers acute insomnia. Sleep-related difficulties may last several weeks but no longer than three months. If you experience insomnia symptoms for longer than three months (and at least three days each week), then these disturbances can no longer be classified as “acute.” This is indicative of chronic insomnia.

No. 2: Sex-related differences in sleep

While we all need restorative sleep to support healthy healing and day-to-day cognitive and physical function, researchers have found noteworthy nuances between those assigned female at birth versus those assigned male at birth in terms of sleep-related processes, difficulties, and behaviors. For instance, there are differences between men and women with regard to sleep cycles and circadian rhythms. Men largely have more favorable sleep latency; they can fall asleep more quickly than women. Females may also be more vulnerable to sleep disturbances brought on by inconsistent work or travel schedules due to their circadian rhythm. These patterns that govern the sleep-wake cycle make women more sensitive to the effects of staying awake for prolonged periods.

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No. 3: The hormonal factor

Hormonal changes have strongly been implicated in “why” being a woman is a top risk factor for developing insomnia in the first place. Hormones are important in supporting so many bodily functions. It is not surprising that fluctuations in these hormones, which occur during monthly periods, pregnancy, when breastfeeding, and as women transition to perimenopause and menopause, can all bring on disruptions in sleep. There is the “pain factor,” too; women may have trouble falling asleep and/or may continuously wake up due to cramps and night sweats. Additionally, women are twice as likely as men to have restless legs syndrome, which can also result in difficulties falling asleep and often painful and frequent reawakening episodes. Hormones are also thought to play a role in associated chronic pain disorders such as migraine, fibromyalgia, and RA (rheumatoid arthritis), which disproportionately affect women.

No. 4: Minding mental health

When it comes to “comorbidities” or existing health conditions, the most prevalent ones associated with insomnia are psychiatric disorders. The Journal of Clinical Sleep Medicine notes that 40% of patients with insomnia have a coexisting psychiatric condition. Depression is the most common psychiatric disorder in this context, and insomnia itself is also a symptom of depression and anxiety disorders. Depression is another condition on this list that disproportionately affects women, with females being two times more likely than males to experience major depressive disorder.

At the NY Center for Integrative Health, we complete a thorough assessment to determine the factors responsible for your sleeplessness. From there, our highly qualified teams develop a personalized plan, which may include any one or a combination of the following intervention(s):

Sleep hygiene training
Cognitive behavioral therapy
Calming nutraceuticals
Botanicals
Prescription medications
Hypnotherapy
Biofeedback
IV nutrient therapy
Acupuncture

Fragmented and poor-quality sleep often goes undiagnosed or is misdiagnosed among women due in part to how these sleep problems are perceived and reported. Rest assured, we listen and respect all our patients. You cannot be truly well when you lack the restorative sleep essential to being your healthiest, happiest self. The ability to perform on the job, as a caregiver, or when enjoying those passions that you love starts with supporting self-care. We encourage you to invest in yourself and your needs.

If you are interested in more information about insomnia treatment, request an appointment today! To reach our Manhattan, NY, and Stamford, CT offices, call (917) 477-3538 or (866) 320-6402 , respectively.

New York Center for Integrative Health is a multi-disciplinary team of providers that work collaboratively to assist you on your healthcare journey. Taking a truly holistic approach that honors your unique needs, the team will work with you to get you sustainably well.

Dr. Robert Kachko, Founder and Director of the NY Center for Integrative Health, is a pioneer in Naturopathic and Integrative Medicine and has developed an extensive bio-psychosocial methodology for people living with chronic diseases. As Immediate Past President of the American Association of Naturopathic Physicians, Dr. Kachko advocates for healthcare reform to allow everyone accesses to the kind of care our clinic provides.