Peaceful Woman Asleep In Bed As Day Break Through Curtains, highlighting the The Importance of Sleep to Women

The Importance of Sleep to Women

Everyone knows that not getting enough sleep can really ruin your day ahead. But, sometimes, it’s tough to get all your recommended hours when there’s so much to do during the day. 

For women, it can be especially hard to balance. You’re expected to maintain a career, raise your children, be healthy, and keep up all your other passions and hobbies. That doesn’t leave much room for sleep. Plus, many of the physical experiences women go through can impact quality of sleep. Examples included menopause, pregnancy, periods, and puberty. 

However, getting a good night’s rest is absolutely vital to remaining healthy and happy. The experts at Covington Women’s Health Specialists are explaining the importance of sleep to women below. 

What Lack of Sleep Does to Your Mental Health

Studies have shown that not getting enough sleep can have the same impact on you as having a high blood alcohol content. It’s easy to see why knowing the effects of lack of sleep on your mental health:

  • Lack of coordination.
  • Impaired judgment.
  • High-levels of stress.
  • More accident-prone.
  • Mood swings. 

Not Enough Sleep Impacts Physical Health 

Unfortunately, not sleeping enough also impacts you physically. Here are some examples: 

  • Decreased hearing. 
  • Feeling hungrier. 
  • Fatigue. 

Long-Term Lack of Sleep? The Impact is Even Worse

If you’re used to getting a terrible night’s sleep, the impact on your mental and physical health gets even worse. Here’s what you’re at risk for:

  • Additional weight gain, even obesity.
  • Type 2 diabetes.
  • Heart Disease.
  • Dementia.
  • Depression.
  • Quicker aging. 
  • High blood pressure. 

How to Keep Good Sleeping Habits During Quarantine

With all of our schedules out of whack thanks to the coronavirus pandemic, you might also be noticing a difference in your sleep patterns. Many people report staying up much later than they usually do, sleeping longer than they usual might, and often taking naps throughout the day. If you’ve noticed that you’re normal, healthy sleeping patterns aren’t what they used to be, here are some tips for keeping good sleeping habits during quarantine:

  • Schedule a sleep time and a wake-up time and keep to it. Staying strict will ensure you get the sleep you need. 
  • Refrain from working in your bed. Keep your bedroom sacred for just sleeping. 
  • Try your best to get outside and enjoy the sunlight! Getting enough vitamin D impacts your quality of sleep. 
  • Keep yourself active! Working out regularly has been shown to improve your sleep. 
  • Make sure to get off your phone in plenty of time before going to bed so your brain can relax and get ready to sleep. Excessive blue light right before bed can negatively affect your sleep. 
  • While naps can be very tempting during this time, make sure to take them carefully. Napping too long or too much means not getting enough sleep later during the night. 

If you have any more questions about the importance of sleep to women, reach out to the women’s health experts at Covington Women’s Health Specialists by clicking here or giving us a call at 770-385-8954