Effects of Sleep Deprivation on Learning and Memory: A Review Study

Considering the importance of learning and memory and the effects of sleep deprivation on these cognitive functions and knowing that sex hormones have an effect on the sleep and wake cycle in both sexes, this study was designed to investigate the effects of sleep deprivation and sex hormones on learning and memory. Sleep is necessary for the development and survival of the brain and increases the capacity of the brain for cognitive actions. After learning, sleep consolidates newly encoded memories during waking hours. Insufficient sleep is common in modern societies and certain occupations, and this sleep deprivation causes cognitive impairment. The prevalence of sleep problems in adults, especially in women, increases with age and causes severe disorders such as cognitive disorders and problems in quality of life. Also, sex hormones affect brain structure, behavior, learning, and memory in both sexes. Loss of hormonal function is associated with sleep disturbances, and learning and memory decline, especially in women. It can be concluded that ovarian hormones may be an important protective factor against learning and memory disorders in sleep-deprived people.