Not sure it is that simple S'manth, I been on a few Acoustic Guitar schools & weekends & there are not really many females take part (even though some of the tutors are female). So don't know?
Also as a short bottom guy with not very big hands I myself have usually played very big heavy basses including 6 strings didn't ever put me off.
It's probably also to do with the fact that playing in a band on the local circuit can be a complete PITA & can be as mentioned sometimes seem very "Blokey"