Medical gaslighting happens when healthcare professionals downplay or dismiss one’s symptoms or concerns – causing patients to doubt themselves or think that they are exaggerating their own condition.
Here are some examples on how you can recognise them.
“Period cramp can’t be that bad”
“It’s normal to have these problems”
“You are too young to have these problems”
“You don’t need these test or medication”
“Stop overthinking about it, you’ll be fine”
“It’s all in your head”
If the above sounds familiar to you, you’ve probably experienced “Medical Gaslighting”.
Why does it matter to you?
People experiencing medical gaslighting might lose trust in healthcare professionals and avoid routine medical checkups. Worse, they might begin to doubt themselves and ignore other symptoms that could be a sign of a more serious health issue.
What can you do about it?
Don’t be afraid to seek a second opinion if you do not agree with your primary doctor. It gives you peace of mind, different perspectives and reconfirms your diagnosis is appropriate.
Speak up about it and ask further questions. For example, What do I do if my symptoms get worse? This would prompt the doctor to pause and reconsider the options.
Try to find a doctor who is honest, respectful and attentive – one that listens to your needs instead of brushing them off.
While medical gaslighting can be a problem for anyone, regardless of gender, race, ethnicity, sexuality or age, the impact is more severe on women. As of 2021, gender bias in healthcare is prevalent and evidence has suggested that doctors still fail to take pain reported by females seriously.
