Why are there so few female pilots? Should I not consider becoming one for some reason?

Absolutely not, if you want to be a pilot and that's your dream, you can do it no matter if you're a man or woman! I was in the Navy for 23 years and served with many female pilots, also some were my Commanding Officer as well.
Follow your dreams, even if you're the only female pilot in the world! Never let anyone or anything make you sway from what you want for your life, if you can dream it and believe it you can do it!
Sometimes things may seem impossible or difficult, but if you keep working hard, doing the right thing and respect for yourself and others, you'll get there.

Lindsay, the airplane or helicopter doesn't know whether a female or male is holding the controls, it just knows someone is. Some of the most devoted pilots I have ever flown with, in both the military and civilian side have been women! The idea that aviation is a mans world doesn't really work now a days. There are plenty of little internet groups that are completely centered around women in aviation, and there are lots of women pilots in them. If you haven't already, look up the pilot Amelia Earhart, she might be a bit of inspiration! Good luck and never give up your dreams!!

Hi Lindsay;
Don't give up on a dream and goal you have. I started flying airplanes at 14, and the way I did it was by working part time jobs after school and summers. I managed to solo at 16 then received my private pilot license at 17. I had no car or anything fancy, but had a pilot license.
For me at the time, I joined the military and was trained as a jet engine and helicopter mechanic. After the military, I used the GI benifits to do the rest.
Only thing I see that holds up young people is the cost, no matter if your a girl or boy.

In my time, I trained 8 women pilots to fly airplanes. One is a Captain for FeDex, and 2 others I still have contact with fly for fun and the enjoyment of it.

Way I see it, the timing is right for you to pursue aviation as the shortage of flight crews and maintenance people will be on the rise.

I wish you good luck, on your dream. If you like travel, the skill to master a aircraft, and have a rewarding career, go for it!
Cheers;
Paul

By all means follow your dreams. There are many female pilots, both airplanes and helicopters. There are organizations for female pilots only. Like was mentioned above, the aircraft does not know the difference. Many people in the industry now welcome female pilots more and more. Several women own their own helicopter flight school and one I know is expanding an opening another one. If you have the time, the money, the desire and the motivation then by all means join the ranks of what many people do for fun, but get paid for it. You wont become rich but you will enjoy your job in the right place. Getting paid for what most people do as a hobby. You cant beat that.
I hope this helps. There are some good pieces of advice on here. Good luck