Bed sharing may be beneficial to sleep

Thursday 7th June 2012

Sleeping with a partner may not be the fast-track to disturbed sleep as it was once thought, and it may offer health benefits, according to US researchers.

Previous studies into the effects that sharing a bed has on sleep had been distinctly negative, with a focus on the disturbance of a partner moving around during the night, as well as issues such as snoring, ‘duvet-hogging’ and different requirements in room temperature – all of which impact on sleep quality. However a University of Pittsburgh study, reported in the Wall Street Journal, has found indications that sharing a bed may produce a number of psychological benefits that outweigh any negative physical interactions.

The long-term study found that the bed sharing experience helped to boost production of oxytocin – the ‘love’ hormone – that generates a feeling of security, safety and comfort, while lowering levels of the stress hormone cortisol. The combination of these chemical reactions helps to creates a natural feeling of relaxation. Notably, oxytocin is generated in the same area of the brain that controls the sleep/wake cycle.

Ergoflex^® memory foam mattresses are ideal for sharing, with their body-shaping attributes you’ll find that you and your partner can both get comfortable straight away, and any movement during the night won’t result in large parts of the mattress sagging and disturbing each other’s sleeping position - perfect for a great night's sleep and a happy relationship!

Tags: sleep partner sharing memory foam mattresses

Category: Sleep Research

< Back to blogs home