How the COVID-19 Pandemic Disproportionately Impacted Women’s Lives

The COVID-19 pandemic has been the most severe global health crisis since the 1918 Spanish flu, bringing challenges that go beyond the virus itself. While men accounted for a higher percentage of COVID-19 deaths in many countries, the pandemic’s social and economic impacts have hit women harder in other ways.

The Dual Burden: Health Risks and Workload

Women make up a significant portion of the healthcare workforce, with about 70% of the global health workforce consisting of women, including nurses, midwives, and community health workers. In the U.S., women hold the majority of jobs in hospitals and pharmacies. This makes them more exposed to the virus. For instance, in Italy and Spain, women accounted for over 66% of infected healthcare workers.

Beyond their professional roles, women have also taken on a larger share of household responsibilities during lockdowns, including childcare and managing the increased demands of home life. This dual burden has intensified stress levels, making it challenging for many women to balance their responsibilities.

A Rise in Domestic Violence

Lockdowns meant to protect us from COVID-19 have, for many women, created unsafe situations at home. Reports of domestic violence have increased worldwide as women found themselves isolated with abusive partners. In some countries, reports of violence against women rose by 25-30% during lockdown periods. The isolation made it harder for victims to reach out for help, and support services were often overwhelmed or unavailable.

History has shown that crises like epidemics can exacerbate existing inequalities. During the Ebola and Zika outbreaks, similar patterns of increased violence and hardship emerged, especially for women and vulnerable populations.

Mental Health Challenges

The mental health toll of the pandemic has been profound. Women have faced higher rates of anxiety, depression, and stress-related conditions. This is partly due to the pressure of balancing work, family care, and managing the risks of the virus. Studies from around the world show that women, especially those with lower incomes or existing mental health conditions, experienced heightened levels of distress during the pandemic.

Pregnant women faced particular challenges, including concerns about the risk of severe COVID-19, complications in pregnancy, and fears about passing the virus to their babies. The uncertainty and isolation have added to the stress of an already challenging time.

Moving Forward: Building a Better Future

The pandemic has exposed the vulnerabilities in how societies support women, especially during crises. According to the United Nations, this moment presents an opportunity for change. Recognizing women’s essential roles in society, providing better support systems, and ensuring policies address gender disparities are crucial for building resilience.

As we recover from the pandemic, it’s time to focus on creating systems that protect and empower women, ensuring that their contributions—both at home and in the workforce—are valued and supported. By addressing these challenges, we can work toward a more equitable future where women’s health and well-being are prioritized.

Reference:
Thibaut, F., & van Wijngaarden-Cremers, P. J. M. (2020, October 26). Women’s mental health in the time of covid-19 pandemic. Frontiers.