sexism in medicine

The lack of a gender perspective in medicine is a problem that has become increasingly evident. Despite the advances in gender equality in many areas of society, medicine continues to be one of the areas that lags behind the most, which has caused inequalities in the diagnosis, treatment and medical care of women.

This is partly due to the fact that medicine has traditionally been androcentric, that is, focused on the male body and its needs, ignoring the biological and social differences of women. This androcentrism manifests itself in various ways, such as the lack of research on diseases that mostly affect women, the minimization of female symptoms and pain, and the excessive prescription of medications.

One of the disorders that has been particularly affected by this lack of gender perspective is endometriosis, a chronic disease that affects one in ten women worldwide, which is characterized by the growth of endometrial tissue outside the uterus, which can lead to pelvic pain, infertility, and other debilitating symptoms. Despite being a common disease, endometriosis remains poorly understood and underdiagnosed. Research suggests that endometriosis can take up to ten years to be diagnosed in some women, meaning years can go by without proper treatment.

The figures in Mexico are worrying. According to a study by the National Institute of Public Health, endometriosis affects between 5% and 10% of women in Mexico, which means that there may be up to six million women suffering from this disease in the country.

Unfortunately, the diagnosis and treatment of endometriosis can be expensive and out of reach for many women who do not have the financial resources to access necessary health services. Treatments for endometriosis can include medications, surgery, and complementary therapies, and can be expensive and difficult to obtain.

The lack of a gender perspective in medicine is a complex problem that requires comprehensive solutions. It is important to engage physicians and healthcare professionals in the discussion regarding inequalities in access to healthcare, so that they can work together to address and reduce these barriers. Only then can we ensure that all women have adequate access to the medical care and treatment they need to live a healthy and fulfilling life. For a #WorthyMenstruation.

Alaska J. Zamora, collaborator of Integridad Ciudadana AC Graduated from Communications from the Universidad Iberoamericana. Her themes are gender, violence, politics and social problems. Twitter: @AlaskaJuarez