Skip the Wait: Progress in Women’s Healthcare is Here

When contraceptives were first introduced in the United States, women were not cautioned about potential side effects such as heart attacks or blood clots. It wasn’t until about a decade later that significant action was taken. In her 1969 book Physician’s Case of Medication, journalist and activist Barbara Seaman compiled testimonials from women who had suffered these symptoms for years. Her advocacy led to a Senate hearing on drug safety, which resulted in the inclusion of critical information regarding lower dosage and side effects.

This was not an isolated delay in addressing women’s voices, particularly regarding medications. Despite substantial anecdotal evidence from users, large trials connecting drugs to another side effect—depression—did not emerge until the 2010s linking studies began to surface.

The same can be said for individuals suffering from chronic fatigue syndrome, where 80% of those affected are women. Despite overwhelming testimony regarding debilitating consequences, research on this condition has been limited over the years in similar contexts (long-standing community) – leading to loss of funding.

This week’s 36-page feature article highlights recent developments. For decades, women suffering from endometriosis—a painful gynecological disorder—have also reported issues resembling autoimmune diseases. Significant correlations have only been explored in research over the last few years after thorough investigations. Just this year, a comprehensive analysis revealed a shared genetic pathway between these two conditions, paving the way for potential new therapies.

Why has progress been so slow? Insufficient funding for women’s health and the stigma surrounding women’s anatomy play significant roles. However, it’s crucial to recognize the attention given to women’s concerns and the lack of validation they often receive. When countless individuals articulate similar experiences regarding their health, we must proceed with caution. While robust data is required for specific medical recommendations and safe treatments, we could make faster strides by listening to experiential accounts, especially those of women.