If you’ve ever found yourself staring at the ceiling at 2 a.m., wondering why your mind just won’t switch off, you’re not alone. Studies show that women are almost twice as likely as men to experience insomnia. But here’s the truth: it’s not because you’re “bad at sleeping.” It’s because women’s bodies and lives are uniquely shaped by factors that make restful sleep harder to come by.

The good news? Once you understand the real reasons behind women’s sleep struggles, you can start taking back control of your nights, and your energy.

Hormones and sleep: A powerful connection

Hormonal changes affect nearly every stage of a woman’s life, and sleep is no exception.

• Estrogen and progesterone play a role in regulating sleep, body temperature, and mood. When these hormones fluctuate, it can trigger night sweats, restlessness, and disrupted sleep.
• Perimenopause and menopause often bring hot flashes, night waking, and insomnia, with up to 61% of women reporting sleep issues during this transition.
• Even monthly PMS can make restful nights harder.

Take action:

Track your sleep patterns alongside your cycle or menopause symptoms. You’ll gain clarity and a starting point to talk with your healthcare provider about targeted solutions.

Stress and anxiety: The nighttime thieves of rest

From deadlines to caregiving, women often shoulder overlapping responsibilities. That mental load doesn’t switch off at night.

• Racing thoughts keep the brain active long after the body is tired.
• Women are more likely than men to experience anxiety disorders, which are strongly linked to insomnia.
• Stress hormones like cortisol can peak at night, keeping the body in alert mode.‍

Take action:

Build a calming evening ritual, even if it’s just 10 minutes. Journaling, a warm bath, or a short meditation can help signal to your body that it’s safe to rest.

Health conditions that affect sleep

Beyond your lifestyle, certain health conditions, many of which affect women more than men, can worsen insomnia.

• Thyroid disorders can cause both fatigue and sleeplessness.
• Chronic pain conditions such as migraines, endometriosis, or fibromyalgia can make restful sleep harder to come by.
• Depression and mood disorders, which are more common in women, are closely tied to disrupted sleep.‍

Take action:

If sleep problems linger despite lifestyle changes, it’s time to check in with a healthcare provider. Sometimes, treating the root cause is the key to better nights.

The bottom line

Insomnia in women isn’t a personal failing. It’s the result of real biological, emotional, and lifestyle factors. By understanding these hidden causes, you can start taking steps that put you back in control of your nights.

At Wylo, we believe every woman deserves restorative sleep. Through supportive consultations, science-backed treatment options, and ongoing support, we’re here to help you finally reclaim the rest and the energy that you deserve.

Ready to take the first step toward better sleep? Start your journey today by joining Wylo Health.