Altercations in bars are hardly ever worth getting retribution. I have known too many men/women who under the influence will go to extremes to get revenge. A quick trip to the parking lot can produce a gun or knife in quick order. It is not usually a good idea to escalate things with these people unless you are willing to make it a life or death situation.
In the case of your getting sucker punched by a woman, I might be tempted to slap her back, but be ready for the inevitable retribution from her male friends. Also it would be wise to watch out for an ambush when you leave. Some people are borderline crazy anyway and when they are drinking, look out.
Maybe my analysis comes from the rough and tumble redneck bars where I used to hang out in my youth.
