Gender-related pressure is an essential factor that can affect the decision of women to seek help for their sensitive concerns. It means the feelings that make them want to seek medical or psychological assistance are often based on how society expects them to behave in different situations regarding their health. This paper will focus on three types of problems faced by women when deciding whether or not they need medical attention, including postpartum depression, menopausal disorders, and mental illnesses such as anxiety and depression.
Postpartum depression refers to the mood changes experienced by new mothers after giving birth. These changes include sadness, hopelessness, anxiety, and anger, which may be accompanied by physical symptoms such as fatigue, insomnia, lack of appetite, and excessive weight loss or gain. Some studies have shown that this condition affects up to 10% of new mothers worldwide, and it can lead to severe consequences if left untreated.
Many women do not report their symptoms due to societal expectations that they should be happy and enjoy motherhood without complaining about anything. They fear being labeled as bad mothers or incapable of handling parenting responsibilities if they ask for help.
Menopause is a natural process whereby women stop ovulating and producing estrogen hormone gradually over time. Women going through menopause experience various symptoms, including hot flashes, night sweats, vaginal dryness, and reduced libido, which might significantly impact their quality of life. Many women keep quiet about these symptoms because they worry about being perceived negatively by others, including employers and family members. They are also concerned about using drugs that could harm them physically or mentally.
Women who suffer from mental illnesses like anxiety and depression often hide their conditions to avoid stigma or discrimination. Depression is a mood disorder characterized by persistent feelings of sadness and hopelessness, while anxiety involves constant worries, fears, and panic attacks. Women tend to conceal these concerns to protect themselves or their families from embarrassment, shame, and judgment. Their partners may reject them or accuse them of exaggerating the situation.
Gender-related pressure can play an essential role in preventing women from seeking medical attention when needed. This paper has explored three sensitive concerns that affect women's lives, namely postpartum depression, menopausal disorders, and mental illnesses such as anxiety and depression. It has explained how societal expectations make many women feel ashamed of expressing their concerns and seek help. The article concludes with a call for more awareness campaigns aimed at empowering women to speak up openly without fear of judgment.
How do gender-related pressures influence women's willingness to seek help for sensitive concerns?
Research shows that gender-related pressures can have an impact on women's decision-making process regarding seeking help for their sensitive concerns. In this regard, there are two main factors that may affect their choice of whether or not to seek professional assistance. The first factor is social stigma associated with mental health issues and seeking therapy. Women are often expected to appear strong and independent in society, which makes it difficult for them to admit they need help.