Why White Coat Syndrome Is More Common in Women Than You Think

Have you ever felt that familiar knot in your stomach as you walk into a clinic? You might tell yourself to relax, but your body has other plans. If going to the doctor makes your heart race, you might have white coat syndrome. It’s something anyone can experience, though it’s more common among women. Explore why that might be.

What Is White Coat Syndrome?

White coat syndrome, also known as white coat hypertension, occurs when your blood pressure spikes in a doctor’s office compared to other settings, such as at home. This condition can occur in any medical situation, from a routine checkup to a more serious one. When you’re feeling anxious, it can be tough to get accurate blood pressure or heart rate results, which may impact the rest of your visit.

Why It Happens

The condition is mainly caused by your body’s response to having your blood pressure checked when you’re concerned about the results. A sudden spike in blood pressure can happen for many reasons. To ensure the in-office readings are only a symptom of white coat syndrome rather than something more severe, they may suggest checking your blood pressure at home or using a 24-hour monitor. 

If your blood pressure is higher than usual during at least three visits to your doctor’s office but you have normal blood pressure readings at home, your provider might diagnose you with white coat syndrome. 

Why Is It More Common Among Women?

While anyone can experience white coat syndrome, research and anecdotal evidence suggest women experience it more frequently. Below are the possible reasons why.

Downplayed Symptoms

Medical gaslighting happens when your doctor invalidates, downplays or ignores your concerns, leaving you feeling like your own experience doesn’t matter. If you’ve ever felt unheard during a medical visit, you’re not alone. Gynaecologist Stephanie Trentacoste McNally, MD, explained that there’s still a widespread belief that when women speak up about their health, it’s often chalked up to hormones or brushed off as being “all in your head.”

Communication Barriers

Sometimes, patients get rushed by a provider or interrupted while explaining symptoms. This creates a fear that their message won’t be understood or heard correctly. When you feel powerless, your body may interpret this situation as stressful, thereby activating your fight-or-flight response.

Past Negative Experiences

A previous traumatic medical event, such as a painful procedure when your discomfort was ignored or even a severe experience like giving birth, can make you uncomfortable in a clinical setting. Therefore, when you visit the hospital, you may unconsciously perceive an immediate threat, causing an automatic stress reaction that manifests as white coat syndrome.

3 Tips for Managing White Coat Syndrome 

The good news is that this anxiety-induced condition is manageable. Here are some practical strategies to keep in mind to help make your next doctor’s visit easier. 

Choose the Right Health Care Provider

Selecting your doctor is one of the most critical steps you can take for your long-term health. It might sound dramatic, but the stakes are real. Over 70% of major medical issues can be traced back to poor communication between doctors and patients. By choosing a provider who values open communication, you’re taking the first step toward a relationship that can help ease your worries.

Bring Someone With You

Consider finding a supportive family member or friend to accompany you to the clinic. Talking about your worries with them can help reduce the pressure and remind you you’re not alone in this journey.

Get Enough Sleep 

Get seven to nine hours of good sleep before your doctor’s appointment. Getting enough rest helps you remain alert and attentive during your appointment with your physician, making you feel more at ease. Turn off your devices before bedtime and set them to silent mode to avoid being distracted by notifications.

Take Charge of Your Health 

White coat syndrome is a real, physical response, not a personal failure. Your feelings are valid, and there are ways to work through them. Take small steps toward feeling more supported. You deserve a health care provider who listens and walks with you on your health journey.

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Mia Barnes is a health and wellness writer and the Editor In Chief at Body+Mind. She especially enjoys writing about mental health, physical well-being, mindfulness, and healthy living. When she's not writing, you can find Mia reading romance novels, jogging, and trying new recipes!