Book Review: Unwell Women by Elinor Cleghorn

Written By Verity Kelsey

Book Review: Unwell Women by Elinor Cleghorn - A Deep Dive into Gender Bias in Healthcare

In her groundbreaking book "Unwell Women," feminist cultural historian Elinor Cleghorn presents a compelling examination of how medicine has treated (and often mistreated) women throughout history. Drawing from both personal experience and extensive research, Cleghorn unveils the troubling patterns of gender bias that have shaped medical knowledge and practice.

About the Author

Elinor Cleghorn brings a unique perspective as both a feminist cultural historian and someone who has personally navigated the complexities of the healthcare system as a woman. Her academic background in medical humanities provides the foundation for this well-researched exploration of women's medical history.

Key Themes and Insights

  • Chronic conditions in women's health and their systematic dismissal

  • Gender bias embedded in medical knowledge and practice

  • Racial disparities in healthcare access and treatment

  • Historical misunderstanding and dismissal of women's pain

Critical Observations

"Healthcare providers and the healthcare system are failing women in their responses to and treatment of women's pain- especially chronic pain."

This stark reality is further emphasized by another troubling observation:

"Women are more likely to be offered minor tranquilizers and antidepressants than analgesic pain medicine."

Personal Reflection

I first read this book at university, and it inspired me to spend the next two years delving deeper into women's health literature and research—ultimately shaping my dissertation topic. Reading it again years later as a healthcare professional resonates even more deeply with my commitment to providing equitable care and focusing on women's health. It reinforces the critical importance of listening to and validating women's experiences, particularly those from marginalized communities. The historical perspective helps me understand why some patients might hesitate to seek medical care and strengthens my resolve to actively work against unconscious biases in medical practice. This knowledge shapes how I approach patient care, ensuring I create a space where all women feel heard and respected.

Who Should Read This Book?

This book is essential reading for:

  • Healthcare professionals and medical students seeking to understand systemic biases

  • Women navigating the healthcare system, especially those with chronic conditions

  • Individuals interested in medical history and gender studies

  • Healthcare equity advocates and reformers

  • Anyone wanting to understand the intersection of gender, race, and medicine

Additional Resources

For readers interested in exploring these themes further, consider these recommended books:

  • "Doing Harm" by Maya Dusenbery

  • "Invisible Women" by Caroline Criado Perez

  • "Pain and Prejudice" by Gabrielle Jackson

  • "Medical Bondage" by Deirdre Cooper Owens

And these informative podcasts:

  • Bodies

  • The V Word

  • The Heavy Flow Podcast

Conclusion

"Unwell Women" is more than just a book - it's a crucial examination of how gender bias and racial disparities have shaped medical treatment throughout history. It serves as both a wake-up call and a call to action for healthcare reform and greater awareness of women's health issues. Published in 2021, this timely and crucial work draws from Elinor's extensive research and personal experiences with healthcare systems, offering vital insights that are especially relevant today amid ongoing debates about women's healthcare access, bodily autonomy, and the persistent dismissal of chronic conditions affecting women. As healthcare policies and women's rights continue to face challenges globally, this book serves as an essential resource for understanding and advocating for better healthcare outcomes for all women.

Verity Kelsey