Once you make the decision to carry a concealed weapon, size becomes an issue, especially for the petite among us. If you like revolvers, consider a .38 special such as the Kimber K6S, with a 2 inch barrel and a capacity of 6 rounds. Weight becomes an issue at this level, and the Kimber weighs in at a moderate 23 ounces. The Ruger LCR .38 Special +P is only 13.5 ounces with a 1.87 inch barrel, improving comfort of carry but also increasing the velocity of the kickback. Its cylinder holds five rounds. The extra powder in the +P model increases the velocity of the round as it exits, giving it more stopping power but increasing the kick that you feel in your hand.
