Sleep Problems for Couples
Sleep Problems Couples Fight About Most
It's the ultimate his/hers dilemma: What to do when differences in sleep preferences keep you from sharing a bed comfortably with your mate? Unfortunately, it's all too common. In a 2005 National Sleep Foundation survey, nearly one in four married couples reported sleeping in separate beds or even separate rooms. Here, the ten most common problems and how to solve them.
Problem: He wants it pitch dark; she needs to see her way to the bathroom.
Solutions
A nightlight. Put a nightlight in the bathroom, then keep the door closed. The crack of light under the door will guide the way.
A flashlight or book light next to bed. Keep a small light on the bedside table to use as guide; point it at the floor so you don't wake your partner.
Problem: She prefers a soft mattress; he wants firm support.
Solutions
An adjustable split mattress. We've all heard the radio ads for mattress systems that allow each side to be adjusted separately. Well, they work, say couples afflicted by this problem. One partner can adjust for firm support, while the other gets a softer surface.
A topper on half the mattress. A cheaper alternative to a sleep-system bed is to layer a soft foam topper on one half of the bed.
Two twins under one sheet. This innovative solution is used by many couples, but it requires a bit of creativity. A twin mattress is 39 by 75 inches, while an eastern or standard king bed is 80 by 76. So each of you can choose a twin mattress you like. Then you push them together and cover with one king-sized fitted sheet -- turned sideways.
Problem: He snores; she's a light sleeper.
Solutions
Snore-stopper nose bands. Anything that stops or reduces snoring is going to help both partners sleep better. Experiment with nose bands, which you can buy at your local drugstore.
Ear plugs. If nothing works to stop him from snoring, you'll have to protect your ears. There are many types of ear plugs; experiment until you find a type that truly blocks noise without irritating your ears, or ask your doctor to recommend a product.
CPAP treatment for snoring. In a study at Rush University, when a snorer underwent two weeks of treatment using continuous positive airway pressure (CPAP), the partner's sleep efficiency jumped, her quality of life improved -- and the couple's marital satisfaction score improved. CPAP involves using a device that prevents the upper airway from collapsing, preventing snoring.
Problem: She needs to get up early; he can't stand the sound of a ticking clock or an alarm.
Solutions
Sleep with your cell phone. Cell phones don't tick, and you can personalize the alarm to be a sound you both find more pleasant, such as a gong or harp. You can also set your phone's alarm to vibrate only and keep it inside your pillowcase.
Set your watch. The ultimate in personalized alarms, some watches can be set to wake you up. The close proximity to you should ensure it doesn't disturb your partner.
A truly silent clock. There are silent clocks; they're just hard to find. Go to a store that allows you to product-test, and find a clock that doesn't tick, click, rattle, or hum.
Problem: She likes to read in bed; he's kept awake by the light.
Solutions
The iPad. Thanks to the option to dim the screen, the iPad is a great tool for readers who don't want to bother their bed partners.
A book light. Buy a mini book light, which gives off very little glow, then use it under the covers or with a pillow blocking the light.
