Structural Sexism Across the Life Course

Abstract

Abstract Structural sexism refers to beliefs, policies, and practices at any level of society or organisation that is derived on the basis of sex and gender, leading to inequity. The impact of this social inequality on women’s health begins as early as preconception and early childhood and accumulates with each life stage. Therefore, it is pertinent to consider how structural sexism shapes women’s health throughout the life course. We highlight how women are financially, physically, and mentally disadvantaged by the expectations of caregiving, the event of de-partnering or widowhood, as well as the higher prevalence of stressors and trauma that they experience. These have long-lasting negative effects on health for middle-aged and older women. We make a point that research has primarily focused on the typical life course of privileged individuals and contend that structural sexism differs for women in other subpopulations, which need to be addressed in future studies. Incorporating the perspective of structural sexism with the biological aspects of women’s health will lead to a better understanding of health disparities across the life course.