The Woolcock Institute of Medical Research

Ahead of the first of the 2025 Sleep Talks series, Dr Aurore Perrault an Early Career Researchers in the Woolcock’s Sleep and Circadian Research group spoke to Macquarie University’s The Lighthouse about her talk topic “Do Women and Men Sleep Differently?

Dr Perrault explained that emerging research is showing there are sex differences in sleep patterns and sleep problems and hormones, social factors and gender roles all appear to play a part.

“A 2024 review of 150 studies shows several key variations, including that women seem to have a greater need for shut-eye, sleeping more than men. They also spend around eight minutes longer in non-REM sleep – or the deep sleep where brain activity slows right down.”

Women are more likely to report insomnia, more likely to experience restless legs syndrome but sleep quality when measured. Men are more likely to suffer from obstructive sleep apnoea. And the differences emerge at puberty with the surge of oestrogen, progesterone and testosterone.

“It’s not only biology playing a role in sleep issues,” the article states. “Research also shows that women in general experience a higher mental burden relating to balancing household tasks, work and what society expects from them. These roles can lead to higher stress levels, which may, in turn, affect their sleep quality.”

More research is needed in women who have been understudied in sleep disorders but treatments and interventions do need to be tailored.

For both sexes, though, it’s important that you see your GP and seek advice if you’re having problems with your sleep. Having a good night’s sleep is too important for sleep issues to be ignored.

The Sleep Talks series is hosted by the Woolcock Institute of Medical Research and Macquarie University. These free public events feature leading clinicians, educators and researchers exploring the latest evidence about sleep health, its impact on individuals and society, and why it's crucial for overall wellbeing.

Each month, Woolcock researchers will delve into different aspects of sleep. The next talk, by Professor Christopher Gordon on Thursday 24 April, looks at what smart watches can tell us about our sleep patterns.

You can find our more about the work being done by our Early Career Researchers, the Woolcock's Sleep and Circadian Research group, read the full interview with Dr Perrault in The Lighthouse and register at attend Sleep Talks using the links below.

Find out more

• Woolcock Early Career Researchers
• Sleep and Circadian Research group
• The Lighthouse: Do Women and Men Sleep Differently?
• Sleep Talk Series Registration