Shakira has admitted that she has had to generate a thick skin to deal with jokes about females within the male-dominated music industry.

The business is traditionally littered with men, especially in areas such as engineering and producing.

Speaking in the February issue of Glamour, Shakira said that she has often been on the receiving end of jokes from males - but she has learnt to not take them personally:

“Dealing with boys at work and being the only girl can be challenging. I have my insecurities, but I’ve learned I have to be a good sport. I have to be able to take certain jokes and not take them personally. There are jokes made almost every second of the day. I had to develop a tough hide. You know, the music industry is dominated by guys. I work with men 98 percent of the time - producers, arrangers, musicians, engineers.”

Talking meanwhile about whether she has been criticised by Latin fans about being too thin, Shakira added:

“At the beginning. But my man, Gerard, prefers meat over bone. He doesn’t like too skinny. That takes pressure off. I already have a lot to worry about. This month I’m not exercising because I have an album to finish and I have a baby. And I like these pastries in front of me.”

Sheakira meanwhile will unleash the Rihanna duet 'Can't Remember To Forget You' on January 13.