Reviews of the 238 are very good. I considered one, but can't bite off on the locked and cocked idea in my pocket - and I'm not sure how well that's gonna work out in a purse in her case. I'd go the Crossbreed microclip route, but they don't make one for the 238 yet.
They're hard to find, but look at a Kahr P380. It's softer shooting than the LCP, has real sights, and is more accurate. I've had both, and there's no comparison. That's not a ding on the LCP as much as it's a nod to the Kahr.
That being said, what about a Kahr PM9 (or MK9)? Only a little bigger than an LCP or P380, and not as bulky than a G26. You can get either with night sights, and the Crossbreed microclip works with them.
+1 I would try a KAHR. I've had two and they are great CC guns. The CW9 is great and the PM9 or 380. I would also strongly recommend Smart Carry. I see women advertised on their webpage but have never heard of any real live stories. Seems this would be a great carry method for women and the KAHR work great. I am currently carrying a Kel-Tec PF9 with SmartCarry.