Do You Know Women Feel More Cold Than Men? Here's What Scientists Have Found

Why Do Women Feel Colder Than Men : Have you ever noticed that women frequently feel colder than men, even in situations where the room temperature is the same? Although it might appear to be a question of taste, research indicates that physiological and biological factors account for this discrepancy.

According to research from reliable sources like the National Centre for Biotechnology Information (NCBI) and the National Institutes of Health (NIH), women's perceptions of temperature are significantly influenced by their body composition, hormones, muscle mass, and metabolic rate. 

This article explains in simple terms why women tend to feel colder, what science says about it, and how it affects daily comfort and health.

1.  Metabolism and Heat Production

Due to a lower metabolic rate, women's bodies generate less heat internally than men's. Men tend to have more muscle mass, which keeps them warmer because muscle tissue produces more heat than fat. One of the primary causes of women feeling colder more quickly than men is this metabolic difference. 

2. Body Size, Surface Area Ratio & Heat Loss

Smaller bodies lose heat more quickly, according to thermodynamics. Women lose heat through the skin more quickly than men because they typically have smaller bodies and a higher surface-area-to-volume ratio. Extremities like the hands and feet feel colder because body fat traps heat deeper within the body even though it acts as insulation. 

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3. Skin Temperature & Thermal Comfort

According to studies, under the same circumstances, women's skin temperatures are frequently lower than men's, particularly in the hands and arms. Women are more sensitive to cold air or colder indoor environments because of this difference in skin temperature. For comfort, women typically choose thermostat settings that are warmer. 

4. Hormonal Influences

Hormones are also very important. Progesterone can alter the distribution of warmth by limiting blood flow, whereas oestrogen can cause blood vessels close to the skin to enlarge, allowing more heat to escape. Women's perceptions of temperature changes can also be influenced by hormonal changes that occur during menstrual cycles or menopause. 

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5. Does This Mean Women Always Feel Colder? Not Necessarily

Men and women responded similarly to temperature changes between 17°C and 31°C under controlled conditions, according to recent NIH research. This implies that although there are biological variations, individual characteristics such as body size, metabolism, and even lifestyle can also have an impact on temperature sensitivity. 

6. Practical Implications

Temperature settings: Thermostats for homes and offices should take into account how comfortable men and women are.

Clothing choices: In colder climates, women can benefit from layering and wearing warm materials.

Health awareness: Cold sensitivity can be increased by conditions such as hypothyroidism, which is more prevalent in women.