Like i recommend to every person, regardless of their sex, please carry mace. It's non-lethal, easy to use and cheap. I'm a 6'2" male with a large build. I used to work and live in new haven for a period of time. They do not care if you're big or small. Give yourself a fighting chance. With any luck, you'll never need it and it'll be no more inconveniencing to carry than a large permanent marker.