Why do so many female healthcare workers ignore their own symptoms?

Healthcare workers spend their careers looking after other people. But when it comes to their own health, many admit they are less likely to seek help as quickly as they would encourage a patient to do. 

Women make up the majority of the NHS workforce and a large proportion of the social care workforce. Many are also unpaid carers for children, partners or elderly relatives, meaning caring responsibilities often continue long after their shift has ended. 

Why does this happen? 

There is no single reason, but research has identified several common barriers. 

Many healthcare professionals report difficulty taking time away from work, concerns about increasing pressure on colleagues, and a tendency to normalise symptoms because they see illness every day. Others simply place the needs of patients and family members before their own. 

Studies have also shown that women, more generally, often carry a significant proportion of unpaid caring responsibilities alongside paid employment, leaving less time to attend routine appointments or prioritise preventative healthcare. 

The risk of waiting too long 

Many symptoms have simple explanations and resolve without treatment. However, persistent or unexplained symptoms should never be ignored. 

Delaying medical assessment can mean conditions are diagnosed later than they otherwise would have been. Earlier assessment often provides more treatment options and, for many illnesses, can improve outcomes. 

Symptoms that should not be repeatedly dismissed include: 

• A new lump or swelling. 

• Unexplained weight loss. 

• Persistent fatigue that is unusual for you. 

• Changes in bowel or bladder habits. 

• Unusual bleeding, including after the menopause. 

• Chest pain or unexplained shortness of breath. 

• A persistent cough or hoarseness. 

• Ongoing pain that does not improve. 

These symptoms do not necessarily indicate a serious condition, but they should be discussed with a healthcare professional if they persist or cause concern. 

Looking after yourself is not selfish 

Healthcare professionals are often exceptionally good at recognising when someone else needs support. 

Applying that same standard to yourself can be much harder. 

Simple steps that can make a difference include: 

• Registering with and using your own GP rather than relying on informal advice. 

• Attending routine screening appointments, including cervical and breast screening when invited. 

• Keeping up with recommended vaccinations. 

• Taking annual leave and proper rest breaks where possible. 

• Seeking support early for stress, anxiety or burnout. 

• Making time for regular physical activity, sleep and balanced nutrition, even in small amounts. 

For unpaid carers, organisations such as Carers UK also encourage carers to have regular health checks and to tell their GP about their caring responsibilities, as caring can have a significant impact on both physical and mental wellbeing. 

Caring starts with yourself 

Healthcare workers spend every day encouraging others to seek help when something doesn’t feel right. 

Perhaps the hardest patient to look after is ourselves. 

Looking after your own health is not taking time away from caring for others—it helps ensure you are well enough to continue doing the work and supporting the people who depend on you. 

Medical disclaimer 

This article is provided for general information, personal research and editorial opinion only. It is not medical advice and should not be used to diagnose or treat any medical condition. If you have symptoms that concern you, or if something doesn’t feel right, seek advice from your GP, NHS 111 (where appropriate), or another qualified healthcare professional. In an emergency, call 999 or attend your nearest emergency department.