The Power of Women’s Health Advocacy: Past Lessons & Future Actions
The Power of Women’s Health Advocacy: Lessons from the Past, Actions for the Future
Women’s Health Advocacy: Learning from History & Taking Action Today
Women’s health has come a long way, but this progress didn’t happen by accident and was not achieved without countless voices demanding action. It took generations of advocacy, research, and policy changes to improve healthcare access, treatment options, and awareness of conditions that disproportionately affect women. Yet, even today, disparities in research funding, healthcare access, and medical bias still persist. Furthermore, there is a threat to funding and research that identifies and advocates for conditions specific to women. Advocating for gender-specific research acknowledges that women differ from men, and it’s not about prioritizing one sex over another, but recognizing these differences.
As we celebrate Women’s History Month, let’s examine the powerful lessons of past women’s health advocates and learn how we can take action to create a healthier future for all women.
Lessons from the Past: How Women Changed Health Care
Fighting for Inclusion in Medicine
Dr. Elizabeth Blackwell 1821-1910
In the 19th century, women weren’t even allowed to study medicine. Dr. Elizabeth Blackwell became the first woman to earn a medical degree in the U.S. in 1849, opening the door for future female physicians. Her efforts paved the way for increased representation of women in healthcare professions—a fight that continues today.
Demanding Research on Women’s Health
Historically, medical research focused primarily on men, assuming that the findings applied equally to women. It wasn’t until the 1990s that the National Institutes of Health (NIH) mandated the inclusion of women in clinical trials. Today, many assume that women have always been included in clinical trials impacting their diagnosis and treatment of diseases. Still, it has been less than 40 years since this was required. This change occurred after persistent advocacy, demonstrating that heart disease, medication effects, and even symptoms of conditions like stroke present differently in women.
Access to contraception is a result of health advocacy for women and bodily autonomy.
Advocating for Reproductive Rights
Access to contraception and reproductive healthcare has long been a battleground for women’s rights. From Margaret Sanger’s work in the early 20th century to modern advocates fighting for bodily autonomy, these efforts have shaped policies that impact millions of women’s lives today.
How to Advocate for Women’s Health Today
1. Educate Yourself and Others
One of the most powerful tools in advocacy is knowledge. Stay informed about key health issues affecting women, such as maternal mortality rates, gender disparities in healthcare, and the impact of conditions like endometriosis and autoimmune diseases. Share this knowledge with others to help raise awareness.
2. Speak Up at the Doctor’s Office
Medical bias still exists, with women’s pain and symptoms often dismissed or minimized. If you or someone you love feels unheard, advocate for second opinions, request thorough testing, and push for evidence-based care. Even if they try to gaslight you, making you think you are over-reacting, you know if something isn’t right.
3. Support Policies That Promote Women’s Health
Laws and policies shape healthcare access and funding. Support initiatives that improve maternal health, expand preventative care, and increase funding for conditions that predominantly affect women. Contacting legislators, signing petitions, and voting are powerful ways to make a difference.
4. Mentor and Uplift Future Generations
The next generation of women’s health advocates needs role models. Whether it’s mentoring young women in medical careers or teaching girls about their bodies and health rights, passing down knowledge ensures that advocacy continues.
Women’s health advocacy has transformed healthcare, but there’s still work to be done. By learning from the past and taking action today, we can create a future where women receive the care, research, and respect they deserve.
Feminism is not a “bad” word or an insult, even if people want to make you think it is. It advocates for equality based on sex—men and women are equal, and women are not subordinate to men. Feminism aims for equality for women in education, employment, and politics. It seeks respect for women's diversity and strives for empowerment to realize and take on our full rights as humans.
