Sex Differences in the Response of the Circadian System to Light

This thesis examines sex differences in shift work tolerance by looking at how the circadian system in women and men responds to light in the evening. We confirmed that the sex differences in performance depend on menstrual phase. We identified sex differences in the response of the circadian system to light, with women showing greater sensitivity to light at moderate and bright intensities. These findings represent a significant step forward in our understanding of human circadian rhythms and has implications for both human research and clinical settings. These results may inform personalised countermeasures for women on shift work schedules.