womenonly

Women-only refers to spaces, services, activities, or programs that are restricted to people who identify as women. The designation is used to promote privacy, safety, or empowerment for women, and can reflect cultural, religious, or historical contexts. The policy surrounding who qualifies as a woman varies by jurisdiction and institution, and some spaces apply inclusive definitions that include transgender women, while others restrict to cisgender women.

Common examples include restrooms and changing rooms labeled for women, women’s shelters and support services, women's health clinics or fitness facilities, and certain sports leagues or competition categories. In some countries, women-only public transit cars or compartments have been introduced to reduce harassment, such as women-only train coaches on some Indian railways. In education and housing, women-only dormitories or study spaces sometimes exist to minimize intimidation or gender-based violence.

Debates surrounding women-only spaces center on privacy and safety versus inclusion. Proponents argue that such spaces provide refuge from harassment, reduce risk in vulnerable settings, and support empowerment. Critics contend that they can exclude trans women or others who identify as women, potentially reinforcing gender binaries and discrimination. Some advocate for inclusive policies that balance privacy with nondiscrimination, such as offering opt-in women-only options alongside gender-neutral facilities.

Legal and policy approaches to women-only spaces vary widely. Some jurisdictions regulate, fund, or require women-only facilities, while others prioritize non-discrimination and inclusive design. In scholarship and public discourse, the concept remains part of broader discussions about gender, safety, and inclusion.