Medical gaslighting is a phenomenon where individuals seeking medical care are dismissed by healthcare professionals regarding their symptoms, experiences, or concerns.

It can look like refusing to order certain tests, downplaying symptoms, or commenting that about how much weight can affect if/when you will get pregnant.

Medical gaslighting can be when doctors and the healthcare system devalue your attempt seek fertility treatment, but it is also when other people prevent you from seeking out the medical treatment that you need.

We hope you are able to feel empowered to advocate for yourself and that you build a support system of people that truly trust, respect, and want the best for you.

Swipe to see some other examples of medical gaslighting.

This Is What Medical Gaslighting Feels Like

• Dismissing your symptoms and questioning how legitimate your medical history is

• Refusing to order tests and imaging that you want to be investigated

• Saying that you are "too anxious" and downplaying your emotions

• Stereotyping about your age, weight, or culture or letting underlying biases affect your diagnosis (ex: "You are so young, you have time" or "You just need to lose some weight" or "Why do you need so many children, be happy with what you have")

• Rushing through appointments without giving you adequate attention

• Belittling your research on your symptoms and self-diagnosing

• Criticizing you for getting a second/third opinion or accusing you of "doctor shopping"