Husband coping better in the heat than you? This is why

A growing number of women are finding themselves struggling more than men during extreme heatwaves, according to recent reports and medical insights. The disparity in how individuals experience high temperatures appears to be rooted in biological differences, particularly affecting women due to factors such as hormone levels and body composition. These findings offer some clarity to those who have noticed their male counterparts seemingly unaffected by the sweltering weather, often continuing daily routines without apparent discomfort. The phenomenon has sparked conversations among friends and family, with many women expressing frustration over the added challenges they face during heatwaves. Some have taken drastic measures, such as booking holidays in cooler climates or convincing their partners to travel to regions known for milder temperatures. This trend highlights a broader issue: the physiological reasons behind why women may find hot weather more taxing than men. Research conducted in 2025 and published in the journal Building and Environment sheds light on this topic. The study indicates that women tend to produce less sweat compared to men and begin sweating at a higher temperature. This means that women can retain more heat before their bodies initiate effective cooling mechanisms. Additionally, the study notes that women generally have a higher body fat percentage, which contributes to an increased core body temperature during certain phases of the menstrual cycle. This added insulation can be both a blessing and a curse, especially during periods of intense heat. Dr. Nighat Arif, an NHS GP, describes heatwaves as a "stress-test" for women's cardiovascular systems. She explains that fluctuations in hormone levels can disrupt the brain's temperature regulation systems, making it harder for women to manage the effects of high temperatures. For instance, the rise in progesterone following ovulation can elevate a woman's core body temperature by a fraction of a degree, which may seem minor but significantly impacts overall resilience to heat. Dr. Nikki Ramskill, a GP specializing in women's health, adds that these hormonal changes can influence how women perceive and respond to environmental stressors. If a woman's baseline body temperature is already elevated, common activities like drinking a cup of tea or consuming spicy food can further challenge her body's ability to regulate temperature effectively. This reduced resilience can lead to greater discomfort and potential health risks during heatwaves. Moreover, women undergoing significant hormonal shifts, such as those related to pregnancy, menopause, or perimenopause, are particularly vulnerable. Conditions like polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS), endometriosis, and adenomyosis, which affect many women, can exacerbate difficulties in managing heat exposure. These conditions not only impact general well-being but also reduce the capacity to cope with the physical demands of high temperatures. As the frequency and intensity of heatwaves increase globally, understanding these gender-specific responses becomes increasingly critical. Public health initiatives should consider these biological differences when developing strategies to protect vulnerable populations. Women, especially those dealing with hormonal imbalances or chronic conditions, require targeted support to navigate the challenges posed by extreme weather events. Health professionals emphasize the importance of awareness and proactive measures, including staying hydrated, seeking shade, and using cooling devices. As the climate continues to change, recognizing and addressing these disparities will be essential in ensuring that everyone, regardless of gender, can safely endure the rising temperatures.