The problem with semi automatic pistols is the gun has to be cocked by racking the slide - in moments of stress this isn't good for a woman who has less grip strength than a man by a lot.
The only sacrifice is the number of rounds.
Discussion
I would try this, but 9mm is not a must can go lighter.
9mm is intriguing just to be able to accumulate ammo for all my weapons including my wife's.
They make models that have a decocker and a da/sa, with 15+ rounds, ie most beretta m9’s
uh...I just leave it loaded, and in moments of stress simply pull the trigger