The common perception that snoring is predominantly a male issue is challenged by research indicating that women are equally likely to snore. A significant number of women, however, do not acknowledge their snoring habit. In a study from the Journal of Clinical Sleep Medicine, nearly 2,000 individuals seeking evaluation at a sleep disorder center were examined. The findings revealed that 88% of the female participants were snorers, but only 72% admitted to it, unlike their male counterparts, of whom 93% were snorers and all self-reported the issue.
The research also discovered that the volume of snoring was comparable between the sexes, with men averaging 51.7 decibels and women not far behind at an average of 50 decibels. Professor Nimrod Maimon, the lead researcher and faculty member at BGU’s Faculty of Health Sciences, pointed out that although women snored at similar volumes to men, they tended to underreport and minimize the intensity of their snoring. The reluctance of women to acknowledge their snoring could hinder their access to sleep clinics for proper evaluations.
The disparity in self-reporting is concerning because it suggests that many cases of loud snoring and potentially life-threatening obstructive sleep apnea (OSA) in women go unreported. Snoring is a key indicator of OSA, which is associated with symptoms such as excessive daytime sleepiness, gasping or choking during sleep, morning headaches, and poor concentration. In the UK, an estimated 2.5 million people suffer from OSA, but only 33,000 receive necessary treatment. Women are especially less likely to report symptoms to their doctors, resulting in a high number of undiagnosed cases.
There are social stigmas attached to snoring in women, which may contribute to their reluctance to admit to it. Many women view snoring as a masculine issue and fear that acknowledging it could affect their femininity or attractiveness. Others deny the possibility that they could produce sounds as loud as those of their partners. However, snoring is a widespread issue among women, often manifesting during pregnancy, menopause, or due to factors such as genetics, medication, colds, allergies, and lifestyle choices like drinking, smoking, and weight gain.
Women who snore should be proactive in assessing their risk for obstructive sleep apnea, as neglecting OSA can lead to serious health problems such as heart disease, stroke, and diabetes. Despite potential embarrassment, discussing snoring with a doctor can significantly improve one’s health and quality of sleep.
Addressing snoring can often begin with lifestyle modifications, such as reducing alcohol consumption, quitting smoking, and losing weight. Additionally, targeted treatments are available, though they are less frequently utilized by women. For instance, a Snoreeze YouGov survey found that 70% more men than women had purchased a snoring relief product for themselves. Many women are unaware that snoring can vary in type, and that each type may require a different treatment approach.
Women who are uncertain about the nature of their snoring can seek further information to better understand their condition. Taking control of snoring is an important step towards a healthier, more fulfilling life, and should not be delayed.
