Uncovering the untold story of women's wellness, from historical struggles and systemic neglect to the ongoing fight for health, equality, and self-preservation.
For centuries, women’s health and wellness have been misunderstood, dismissed, and even weaponized against them. Medical concerns were often written off as hysteria, mental health struggles were ignored or pathologized, and access to proper care was limited—especially for marginalized women. Even today, gender disparities in healthcare persist, and societal expectations continue to make it difficult for many women to put their well-being first.
Yet, throughout history, women have fought for their right to prioritize their health—pushing for better medical care, creating community support networks, and redefining what self-care truly means. As we honor Women’s History Month, let’s look at how women’s wellness has evolved, where challenges remain, and why prioritizing well-being is not just self-care—it’s self-preservation.
Early Barriers to Women’s Wellness
Historically, women’s bodies and health concerns were largely controlled by a male-dominated medical field. The term hysteria—derived from the Greek word for uterus—was used for centuries as a catch-all diagnosis for women experiencing anything from anxiety to chronic pain. Without a real understanding of female health, doctors dismissed symptoms, prescribed unnecessary treatments, or outright ignored women’s suffering.
Access to medical care was also deeply unequal. Women, particularly those of lower socioeconomic status and women of color, were denied the same treatments and research-backed medical attention as men. This history of neglect has had long-term consequences, many of which we still see today in the gender gaps in pain management, maternal healthcare, and medical research.
The Fight for Mental and Emotional Wellness
Mental health has been another battleground for women’s wellness. For centuries, women expressing distress or emotion were labeled as unstable, hormonal, or overly sensitive. Rather than receiving care and support, many were institutionalized or told to simply endure their struggles in silence.
The rise of psychology, paired with women’s advocacy for their own mental health, began to shift this narrative. Women like Dr. Mamie Phipps Clark, who studied the psychological effects of racism, and pioneering feminist therapists helped lay the foundation for modern mental health awareness. Today, therapy, mindfulness, and emotional well-being are rightfully recognized as critical aspects of health—but stigma still exists, and access to mental healthcare remains a privilege rather than a right for many women.
Start Your Journey to Better Well-Being
Prioritizing your wellness is an act of self-respect, not selfishness—and we’re here to support you. Ready to assess your wellness? Take our Wellness Assessment to gain insights into your self-care habits and discover ways to create a more balanced, fulfilling life, while embracing the power of self-preservation.
The Caregiver Burden and the Struggle for Work-Life Balance
Women have historically shouldered the burden of caregiving—expected to prioritize the needs of their families, workplaces, and communities above their own. Even as more women enter the workforce and achieve professional success, the expectation to “do it all” remains. Many women struggle to find time for rest, and when they do, they often feel guilty for it.
The fight for work-life balance is an ongoing challenge. Systemic issues like unpaid labor, workplace discrimination, and insufficient maternity leave policies make it difficult for women to prioritize their well-being. But history also shows us that women have always found ways to care for themselves and each other—through mutual aid, community healing practices, and by pushing for legislative change that supports their health.
Modern Wins and Ongoing Challenges
Women’s wellness has come a long way:
✅ Greater representation of women in healthcare and research ✅ Increased recognition of the importance of mental health ✅ More conversations about the effects of gender bias in medicine ✅ A shift toward holistic wellness and bodily autonomy
Yet, significant challenges remain. Black women continue to face disproportionately high maternal mortality rates. Women with chronic illnesses often struggle to have their pain taken seriously. Access to reproductive healthcare remains a contentious issue. The self-care movement, while powerful, is often commercialized in a way that overlooks systemic barriers to wellness.
Ready to Prioritize Your Well-Being?
Self-care is a vital part of honoring yourself, not indulgence—and we’re here to guide you. Explore our wellness resources for inspiration, tools, and support in nurturing your mind, body, and spirit, while also empowering others to do the same.
Honoring Women’s Wellness Today
Prioritizing women’s wellness isn’t just about bubble baths and spa days—it’s about ensuring that every woman has the right to quality healthcare, emotional well-being, and a life where her health is taken seriously. As we reflect on Women’s History Month, here’s how we can honor and advocate for women’s wellness:
💖 Educate yourself on the history of gender disparities in healthcare. Knowledge is power, and understanding past injustices helps us push for change.
💖 Support policies and organizations that fight for women’s health rights. This includes reproductive rights, mental health access, and gender equity in medical research.
💖 Prioritize your own well-being—without guilt. Rest is not laziness. Seeking help is not weakness. Making your health a priority is an act of resilience.
💖 Create and uplift community spaces where women feel supported. Whether it’s through advocacy, mentorship, or simply holding space for honest conversations, collective wellness starts with community.
Organizations to Support
Reproductive Rights & Healthcare Access
Planned Parenthood – Provides reproductive healthcare, education, and advocacy.
Center for Reproductive Rights – Legal advocacy for reproductive rights worldwide.
National Network of Abortion Funds – Helps people access abortion care when facing financial and logistical barriers.
Maternal Health & Black Women’s Wellness
Black Mamas Matter Alliance – Focuses on improving Black maternal health outcomes.
Every Mother Counts – Works to ensure safe pregnancy and childbirth for all.
Mental Health & Emotional Well-Being
Therapy for Black Girls – Provides mental health resources and a directory of Black women therapists.
National Alliance on Mental Illness (NAMI) – Offers mental health support, education, and advocacy.
Gender Equality & Workplace Rights
National Women’s Law Center – Advocates for workplace protections, equal pay, and reproductive justice.
Time’s Up Legal Defense Fund – Supports women facing workplace harassment and discrimination.
Domestic Violence & Crisis Support
National Domestic Violence Hotline – Offers support and resources for those experiencing abuse.
RAINN – The largest U.S. anti-sexual violence organization.
Ways to Take Action in This Political Climate
🔹 Vote in every election – Local, state, and federal elections all impact women’s rights and healthcare access. Check voter registration deadlines and support pro-women candidates. (Vote.org)
🔹 Support organizations doing the work – Donate, volunteer, or share resources from the groups above.
🔹 Stay informed & speak out – Follow updates on women’s rights issues and use your voice to educate others.
🔹 Contact your representatives – Call or email lawmakers to advocate for policies that protect reproductive rights, gender equity, and healthcare access. (Find your reps)
🔹 Support women-owned businesses & initiatives – Uplift women in the economy by buying from and investing in women-led ventures.
🔹 Create safe spaces – Whether it’s within your own circles, workplace, or online community, fostering an environment where women’s voices and needs are heard makes a difference.
Women’s wellness is a legacy of struggle, advocacy, and perseverance. By continuing to fight for health equity, challenge outdated narratives, and prioritize well-being, we carry that legacy forward—not just for ourselves, but for the generations of women to come.
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