As we take a short festive break, here’s what’s coming up in 2019, and how you can get involved…

Hysterical Women will be taking a short festive break from today, Tuesday 18 December, until Wednesday 2 January.

But there’s lots of great stuff lined up in 2019 (even if I do say so myself!) We’ll be back with guest posts on anorexia, endometriosis, pre-menstrual dysphoric disorder and more, plus  Q&As with the editor of The Colour of Madness – which explores mental health and race – and the authors behind some of my favourite books on sexism in women’s health.

But I also want to hear from you! I’m seeking guest post submissions for 2019 from any woman, trans or non-binary person who’s got a story to tell about sexism, dismissal and disbelief in healthcare.

In particular, I’m interested in hearing from:

  • Women of colour who’ve experienced sexism and/or racism when trying to access support for mental, physical or sexual health concerns
  • Trans/non-binary people who’ve experienced misgendering and stigma in healthcare, health problems being dismissed or automatically attributed to your status as a trans/NB person (e.g. “it’s just the hormone treatment”), negotiating sexual health services either as a trans man or as a trans woman, gender dysphoria being dismissed as teenage hormones/confusion/just a phase, etc.
  • Women who’ve faced dismissal, disbelief, and sexism when seeking help for any of the following:
    • Mental health problems
    • Sexual dysfunction or sexual pain (e.g. vulvodynia/vaginismus)
    • Autoimmune/chronic health problems
  • Mothers who’ve been dismissed as neurotic or making a fuss about nothing when struggling with their own physical or perinatal/maternal mental health, or when concerned about their child’s health
  • Campaigners and healthcare professionals who are working to raise awareness and improve healthcare for women across the UK

Click here to get in touch with suggestions and submissions.

In the meantime, have a very merry Christmas period, and a happy new year. See you in 2019!