It’s a common observation that moms tend to get sick more often than dads.

Is it because of gender differences, biological factors, or lifestyle choices? Here are some possible reasons why moms are more susceptible to illnesses compared to their male counterparts.

Moms are More Stressed

As the primary caregiver in most households, moms have more responsibilities and duties, which can lead to chronic stress.

When stressed, the body releases hormones that can weaken the immune system, making moms more vulnerable to ailments and infections. On top of that, moms are often sleep-deprived, which further weakens their immunity and increases the risk of getting sick.

Moms Have Weaker Immune Systems

Studies suggest that women, in general, have weaker immune systems than men, partly due to hormonal differences. Estrogen, for example, can suppress the immune system, while testosterone can enhance it.

Additionally, women have a higher risk of developing autoimmune diseases, such as lupus and rheumatoid arthritis, which can cause chronic inflammation and weaken immunity over time.

Moms Work in High-Risk Environments

Many moms work in high-risk environments, such as hospitals, schools, and daycares, where they can be exposed to various pathogens. Children, in particular, can bring home germs from school or daycare and spread them to their moms.

Moreover, moms who breastfeed can pass on infections to their infants through breast milk, which can exacerbate their own illnesses.

Moms Put Everyone Else First

Moms are known for putting their family’s needs before their own. They often neglect their health and well-being in favor of taking care of their children and partner.

As a result, moms may delay seeking medical help for their own illnesses until they worsen, which can lead to complications and longer recovery times.

Moms Tend to Multi-Task

Moms are experts at multi-tasking, but this can also lead to cognitive overload and stress, which can weaken the immune system.

Additionally, moms who are constantly juggling multiple tasks may not have enough time to engage in self-care activities, such as exercise, relaxation, and socializing, which can boost immunity and reduce stress.

Moms are Exposed to Hormonal Changes

Throughout a woman’s life, she experiences various hormonal changes, such as menstruation, pregnancy, and menopause, which can affect her immune system and make her more susceptible to illnesses.

For example, during pregnancy, the immune system is naturally suppressed to prevent the mother’s body from rejecting the fetus. This means that pregnant moms are more prone to infections and illnesses, especially respiratory infections and urinary tract infections.

Moms’ Body Structure Can Contribute to Illnesses

Women’s bodies are structured differently from men, which can make them more prone to certain illnesses and conditions. For example, women have smaller chest cavities, which can make them more susceptible to respiratory infections.

Women also have shorter urethras than men, which can increase the risk of urinary tract infections. Furthermore, women’s reproductive organs are more exposed to infections and inflammations, such as pelvic inflammatory disease, which can cause chronic pain and infertility.

Moms’ Diet and Nutrition Can Affect Immunity

Many moms are busy and stressed, which can lead to poor eating habits and nutrition. A diet that lacks essential vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants can weaken the immune system and make moms more susceptible to illnesses.

Additionally, moms who are breastfeeding may not be getting enough nutrients themselves, as their bodies are prioritizing milk production over their own nutritional needs.

Moms Have a Higher Mental Load

Moms not only have physical demands but also emotional and mental ones. They are often the ones who manage the household, plan the meals, coordinate the schedules, and remember the details.

This mental load can lead to burnout, anxiety, and depression, which can weaken immunity and increase the risk of illnesses.

Moms Need to Take Care of Themselves

To reduce the risk of illnesses, moms need to prioritize their own health and well-being.

This means getting enough sleep, eating a balanced diet, engaging in regular exercise, seeking medical help when needed, and practicing self-care activities, such as meditation, massages, and hobbies. It also means delegating tasks and responsibilities to other family members or hiring help, so moms can have some time to rest and recharge.