roter Bikini an Wäscheleine

Out of the Bikini: The Gender Data Gap

Written by: Dr. Julia Ulbricht Förschle

|

Published on

|

Time to read 4 min

Did you know that in medicine, women are often only counted up to the bikini?


What counts medically is measurable, objective, evidence-based – at least that's how it should be. But what if the data gap is female?


For decades, the male body was considered the norm in medical research. The female body was omitted or "implied" – with reference to hormonal complexity, potential pregnancies, or "too many variables." This led to a fallacy with far-reaching consequences: the Bikini Approach.


The term symbolizes a perspective in which female health is limited to what a bikini covers: breasts, uterus, ovaries. Everything else – heart, brain, metabolism, immune system – is either ignored or treated according to male standards.

Facts about the Gender Data Gap

Women are still underrepresented in clinical studies: On average, they account for 41% of participants (less depending on the field).

Especially in cardiology, the gap remains wide:

In CVD studies (cardiovascular disease studies), the proportion of women in one evaluation was 38%.

Side effects are observed/reported more frequently in women: The risk of adverse drug events is higher in women in evaluations - with a relevant impact on dosage, tolerability, and safety.

Heart attacks in women are often detected later: Not because women are "more complicated" – but because symptoms often manifest differently and have long been measured against male standards.

Biology is not neutral: Size/distribution of body fat and muscle mass, hemoglobin levels, metabolic rate, and organ functions differ on average – medically relevant, but not consistently reflected in research & guidelines.

Cycle-related diseases are under-recorded: PMS/PMDS and cycle-related migraines are too often downplayed, diagnosed too late, or not sufficiently researched.

The consequence of the Data Gender Gap? Therapies that are not optimally adapted for women. Symptoms that are not fully recognized. Bodies whose particularities receive too little attention.

Support – simple and effective


Our specially developed formula combines vitamins, minerals, adaptogens, bacterial cultures, and much more to support you in everyday life. Perfectly tuned for a simple daily routine – easy to take and versatile. This all-in-one solution helps you maintain your energy and sustainably support your body, without extra effort.


  • 87 ingredients
  • Produced in Germany
  • Study-based effectiveness
  • Especially for women aged 40+

Clear, honest, to the point – we deliver solutions instead of empty promises.

What can you do?

Educate yourself.
Knowledge is the first step. Read. Ask questions. Listen to podcasts. Talk to other women. Become an expert on your body – no one knows it better.


Ask questions during your doctor's visit and act confidently.
You are not a difficult patient if you ask critical questions. You are informed. And that is powerful.


Insist on being treated holistically.
Not just as a hormone carrier, not just as a potential birthing person – but as a complete human with a complex, fascinating body.

Conclusion

Medicine has historically been male-dominated, leading to the gender data gap. However, as women, we can take active steps to demand a holistic view of our health. The more we advocate for our own health and make informed decisions, the better we can contribute to medical care that considers the entire female body.


Interested in exciting content in your inbox?


We believe in the power of community and exchange. Feel free to follow us on Instagram | Pinterest . Or receive our emails conveniently in your inbox.

Do you want more information?


Blood sugar management, hormonal balance or healthy sleep – Daylista researches the most important answers about your health for you. Our 9 focus areas help you to specifically improve your well-being: pump it up, happy sleeping, no drama be queen, from the heart, under pressure, l'amour toujours, I can see clearly now, unstoppable and just the way you are. Our Navigator is a resource for you. Because you know what you want - and we know how you can achieve it. Visit the Navigator now.

Toilettentür  auf der ein Frauenzeichen ist

Questions & Answers

What exactly is the Bikini Approach?

The term describes the medical practice of focusing primarily on the "bikini zones" – i.e., breasts and lower abdomen – in women, while neglecting other organ systems.

What is the Gender Data Gap?

The Gender Data Gap refers to the structural underrepresentation of women in medical research. This leads to therapies and diagnoses that are often not optimal for female bodies, or are based on incorrect assumptions.

Why is it important to ask questions during a doctor's visit?

Because by doing so, you actively ensure that your body is considered individually. Your health deserves a tailored approach, not just standard treatment.

What is the Gender Health Gap?

The Gender Health Gap refers to the differential treatment of women and men in healthcare. This is often based on incorrect assumptions (insufficient data depth for women - Gender Data Gap) and misjudgments.

Julia

Dr. Julia Ulbricht-Förschle

As a lawyer and mother of two children, I know the juggling act between job, family, and me-time. In my late 40s, I feel stronger and freer than ever – because I've learned to give myself more space. With Daylista I want to encourage women to enjoy their forties and the time after with ease, power, and the courage to seize new opportunities.