Why are Irish women hiding their pain? The reality of the gender health gap

There is an ongoing gender health gap in Ireland

A further (35%) feel too embarrassed to raise gender-specific health concerns with their manager.

The ongoing gender health gap is causing not only distress for women, but also daily disruptions in their day-to-day lives because of stigma and gender bias.

The research also found that two-thirds of women (66%) are self-medicating with painkillers, enduring discomfort, and potentially exacerbating health issues, simply to “power through” their workday.

Research by Laya Healthcare, part of AXA, revealed the deep and ongoing gender health gap in Ireland, where women feel under pressure to minimise, mask, or silently endure their health concerns, particularly in the workplace.

The findings show that many women are caught between societal expectations, professional pressures, and a fear of not being taken seriously, with many avoiding discussing gender-specific health issues even when it affects their well-being.

Commenting on the research, Dr. Sumi Dunne, a GP specialising in women's health, said, “These findings highlight a critical and often invisible layer of the gender health gap. Beyond fearing external dismissal, many women internally question whether their concerns are valid enough to raise, creating a culture of silence. I encourage women to speak up, especially when they feel unheard, and to advocate for their own health.

She continued, "Too often women prioritise others over themselves, but it’s important to seek medical advice if you’re experiencing issues, no matter how small they may seem. Ensuring women feel supported and confident to talk about their health from the outset is key to closing this gap. It’s encouraging to see initiatives like Laya introducing tangible supports such as GP specialists in menopause, alongside AXA’s global investment in gender health research.”

Laya Healthcare is committed to playing its part in closing the gender health gap by offering services that make it easier for women to speak up about their health and get care quickly.

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