Stop Normalising Women’s Health Symptoms: Why You Deserve to Be Heard
Women’s health is often misunderstood, dismissed, or minimised—leaving many feeling unheard and unsupported. If you’ve ever been told “it’s just stress,” “you’re just a busy mom,” or “your blood work looks fine,” you’re not alone. This post is your permission slip to stop normalising symptoms that aren’t normal and to demand better care.
The Systemic Issue: Why Women’s Symptoms Are Dismissed
For decades, women have been conditioned to downplay their symptoms and accept vague explanations for their health concerns. This isn’t just a personal issue—it’s a systemic problem rooted in the way medicine is practiced and researched.
Clinical Research Bias: Historically, medical research has focused on men. In fact, 70% of clinical trial participants globally are white men, and male cells and animals are the default in research. It wasn’t until 1993 that women were required to be included in US clinical trials.
Discrimination in Healthcare: Two out of three Australian women report experiencing discrimination in the healthcare system, including being dismissed, misdiagnosed, or ignored.
The Unique Complexity of Women’s Health
Women’s bodies are not just “men with different parts.” Hormonal cycles, immune responses, and gut health all interact in complex ways. For example:
Autoimmune Diseases: 80% of autoimmune diseases occur in women.
Endometriosis: 1 in 7 Australian women have endometriosis, often waiting up to 10 years for a diagnosis.
Hormonal Cycles: Women operate on a 28-day hormone cycle, affecting energy, digestion, pain tolerance, and mood.
Gut Health: More Than Just IBS
Many women are told their gut issues are “just IBS.” But symptoms like bloating, pain, and changes in bowel movements are signals from your body—not random or “all in your head.” The standard low FODMAP diet is only a short-term solution and doesn’t address underlying causes like microbiome imbalances, hormonal fluctuations, or nutrient deficiencies.
Fatigue: It’s Not Just in Your Head
Fatigue is one of the most common complaints among women, yet it’s often dismissed. There are many potential causes, including:
Nutrient Deficiencies: Iron and B12 deficiencies are common, especially in women with heavy periods or on vegetarian/vegan diets.
Hormonal Changes: Energy needs fluctuate throughout the menstrual cycle, especially in the luteal phase.
Diet and Lifestyle: Many women aren’t eating enough, particularly protein, due to trends like intermittent fasting (often based on studies in men).
Advocating for Yourself: Becoming Your Own Health Detective
The solution isn’t to become hyper-focused on symptoms, but to look at the bigger picture. Holistic practitioners, like naturopaths, connect the dots between symptoms, lifestyle, and lab results to create a personalized health strategy.
Track Your Symptoms: Pay attention to when symptoms start, what triggers them, and how they change throughout your cycle.
Ask Questions: Don’t be afraid to seek second opinions or request further testing.
Seek Support: Work with practitioners who listen and take your concerns seriously.
Conditions That Deserve More Attention
PMDD (Premenstrual Dysphoric Disorder): A severe form of PMS affecting mood and quality of life for up to two weeks each cycle.
Perimenopause: The transition to menopause can last up to 10 years, causing symptoms like hot flashes, mood changes, and brain fog.
You Are Not Broken
Your body is trying to communicate with you. Instead of feeling defeated, get curious. With the right support and information, you can become the expert on your own health and make empowered decisions for your well-being.
If you’re struggling with IBS, fatigue, or hormonal issues, check out the free IBS toolkit in the show notes or book a free 10-minute call for personalised support.
Share this post to help other women stop normalising symptoms and start advocating for better health!