A series of new studies show that even invisible forms of sexism in everyday life have profound psychological and physical consequences for women – including changes in brain structure.
Experts say that the constant stress of being teased, belittled, or treated as inferior takes a toll on mental and physical health. A study of more than 7,800 brain scans in 29 countries found that women living in societies with high gender inequality had thinner parts of their cortex — areas linked to emotional control, stress resistance, and disorders like depression and anxiety. Researchers call this “a brain imprint” left by inequality.
These effects do not appear to the same extent in men and are significantly reduced in more gender-equal countries.
The impact of sexism is evident even years later: research in the UK showed that women who have experienced gender discrimination have higher levels of stress, more mental health problems, loneliness and lower life satisfaction.
In addition to the psychological side, women also face unequal treatment in the healthcare system. Studies show that in emergency rooms, women receive less pain medication than men, even when the symptoms are the same.
Sociologists call this “structural sexism” – inequalities built into institutions that affect wages, autonomy, security and access to health services. Experts point out that this harms not only women, but also men, who often hold rigid roles of “traditional masculinity”, which are associated with higher risk-taking, addiction and mental health problems.
Research shows that countries that invest in gender equality – including parental leave for both parents and supportive social policies – benefit society as a whole, with improved public health and reduced social costs.
Researchers say that raising awareness, challenging stereotypes and more pro-equality policies are essential to minimize these consequences. But the scientific evidence remains clear: everyday sexism can harm women's health down to a neurological level, showing how far away equality still is.
