Sisterhood is helping women advocate for their health

There are 3.95 billion women in the world. 

That means there are more women than men, but why is it that women are still treated differently? There are so many stereotypes and stigmas surrounding women as a whole, and it’s impossible to live up to the standards that society places on them. Disparities in the workplace and in the public eye make it difficult for women to feel empowered. Instead of fostering a space where there is division between women and men, we need to band together to enforce equality. 

Unfortunately it might be hard for everyone to get on board. Women need to band together as a sisterhood to ignite their power and uplift one another. Women deserve to have unconditional support and advocacy from one another, so it’s important to stick together during trials and tribulations. 

“Womanhood is more than just a single individual. It is a promise between all of us – regardless of our race, religion, color, or creed – to motivate, inspire, and provide an endless cycle of support for one another. That is sisterhood,” shares Amy Beckley, Ph.D and CEO at Proov.

One of the biggest reasons women need to stick together is to stand up for their health. There are many times where women’s health is not taken seriously or not studied enough. Studies show that women and ethnic minorities are 20-30% more likely to experience a misdiagnosis versus white men. This not only shows a huge inequality of health, but creates health risks for women everywhere. 

This is especially apparent for women’s health conditions. Doctors have recently talked about medical gaslighting and how some do not take women’s concerns seriously. For example, many times women will have specific pain in their bodies and it will get chalked up to overdramatics and anxiety symptoms. However, when women stand up for themselves and get a second doctor’s opinion they will find that there is actually something wrong with them. This shows that womens’ pain is not taken seriously. When women are dismissed this creates serious health risks for them if not treated properly. 

When women band together it can help create change in society. Women are the majority, not the minority. They have the power to unite and advocate for themselves for the better. No matter their differences, women have something in common. Not only does this common ground help women work together, but it helps them grow and learn from one another. Sisterhood is all around and should be celebrated. 

“Women are the most courageous and compassionate individuals in our society. They can take 99 hits and get right back up for the 100th. Now, imagine the power of a united coalition of women standing together. Their power would be insurmountable. When women uplift one another, they create an everlasting trail of strength and support. They turn dreams into realities,” says Amy.

Politics and beliefs aside, community is an important thing. Equality is an important thing. We need to look out for women’s health because their concerns are valid. It’s better to ask a question than not ask at all, so why are women not taken seriously? When it comes to women’s health there needs to be more extensive research done to protect and heal those in pain.

Womanhood is a beautiful thing and genuinely makes the world move forward. Women are powerful, smart, intuitive and deserve to be met with the same respect men receive. Advocating for women’s health should not be that hard, and should be a top priority as the healthcare system continues to change. How will you advocate for the women in your life?