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I may be slapped for asking this 1-Apr-2009 At 9:37:51 AM bluey

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I don't have any issues with belay gloves in principle - actually, I've never heard of the idea before. But I do have issues with one of your reasons being "I'm a girl" suggesting somehow that 1. there is some sort of weakness involved in your desire to use a belay glove and 2. that weakness is somehow attributable to being a girl.

Sigh.

Anyway, here's my more constructive input - I belayed a male, much bigger than me, partner for a couple of years and had no issues. I just don't think it should be a factor - the bigger issue would be being anchored rather than rope burn or other hand damage. If you're having problems with your hands (and they're not otherwise already sore from climbing or whatever), it suggests to me that you're not managing to brake properly which is a greater concern - esp. for your leader. Gloves could help but I'd also consider the following:

You may need to look at your belaying technique - gripping too tight is fine (and should result in holding a fall, no rope burn), gripping too little so that the rope slips during a fall is not fine (may result in rope burn and a decked out leader). If you're leader isn't moving upwards, make sure you have the rope in the locked off position (just like in the gym) so at least for that time, there shouldn't be much yank on your hand during a fall.

May also want to think about your belay device - if you're using an ATC, you can get different sizes and a smaller one might help you out esp. if using twin ropes? or go a gri-gri as neil suggests (I don't like em meself but whatever makes your leader safe eh!).