Liv and I both have carry permits. We're in Memphis and this isn't the safest place to be walking around...so a few years ago we took shooting classes and got our CCW permits.
I feel safe knowing we can both defend ourselves if we need to, both at home or if we're out.
I would recommend a Glock 26, it's a 9mm which is the smallest caliber you should be using for protection and even than I would make sure your using hollow point ammo. The Glock 26 is also known as a mini Glock, it's very small and perfect for females and the only gun I've ever shot with that's small but doesn't have too much kick when firing.
I am a huge advocate of the 2nd Amendment and the right to defend ourselves. I myself am a parapalegic and have been for over 20 years, my wife is a tiny petite little thing and neither one of us could defend ourselves if something happened, until we got our permits! I would never, ever recommend getting a gun without first going to a shooting range and taking some gun safety courses. Even if you think you know how to handle a firearm, you'll learn some very good stuff. And if you ever have to defend yourself, it also shows that you are responsible and trained
