Sleep across life
How sleep changes with age, menopause and pregnancy.
Sleep changes throughout life. These shifts are normal, and knowing them helps you live them better.
| Age | Duration over 24 h | Naps |
|---|---|---|
| Child | 9 to 13 h | Naps for the youngest |
| Teenager | 8 to 10 h | – |
| Adult | 7 to 9 h | – |
| After 65 | 7 to 8 h | Lighter sleep, sometimes a daytime nap |
As you get older
- With age, sleep gets lighter and night awakenings more frequent. That's normal, not necessarily a problem.
- People often tend to go to bed and wake up earlier as they get older.
- Getting daylight and staying active helps keep better-quality sleep.
At menopause
- At menopause, sleep is often disrupted, especially by hot flushes at night.
- Keeping the bedroom cool and hours regular can help through this period.
During pregnancy
- During pregnancy, hormonal and physical changes often fragment sleep.
- Short daytime naps and a comfortable position at night can bring relief.
Frequently asked questions
Why do you sleep less well as you age?
With age, sleep becomes lighter and night awakenings more frequent. This is normal. Getting daylight and staying active helps keep sleep at better quality.
Does menopause disturb sleep?
Yes, sleep is often disturbed at menopause, especially by night-time hot flushes. Keeping a cool bedroom and regular hours can help through this stage.
Why do you sleep poorly during pregnancy?
Hormonal and physical changes often fragment sleep during pregnancy. Short daytime naps and a comfortable position at night can bring relief.