I'm not sure I've ever had this problem. Where and at what kinds of hotels do you run into this? Also, what do you consider well-situated? Some people don't want to be near the elevator; others consider the far end of the hall "inconvenient". If you have a preference, tell the desk clerk when you are checking-in (or put a note on your reservation).
Especially outside the US, "single" rooms may be smaller than "doubles", but it's never been an problem for me. And, definitely nothing to do with being female.
If it is a problem, I suppose you could ask for another room. Or book a double & say your husband/bf/partner is joining you later.