I found this book really interesting. It’s written by a gynaecologist and her daughter who discuss everything from puberty to menopause. Specifically, they tackle anatomy, menstruation, gynaecology, maintenance, sex, contraception, STD’s, abortion, reproduction, and menopause.
Highlights:
- Really great chapter on “the standard equipment”, outlining all the internal and external parts of the vulva that are often ignored.
- The section on the birth control pill was really informative. I have not yet met a doctor/nurse who has explained the different types of pills (Monophasic vs. Triphaisal and estrogen-progesterone vs. progesterone alone) in this way, instead of just giving a list of the brands that they know or prescribe the most.
- The section on abortion explicitly outlines the different procedures and how they are carried out, the risks involved, and complications that may occur afterwards.
Criticisms:
- It’s written from the perspective of a doctor who practises traditional North American medicine. Much of the info. reflects this; although everything is explained very thoroughly.
- There are many times throughout the chapter on contraception where they make reference to long-term monogamous relationships and how they are the safest sex practise. I don’t think that monogamy = safe sex, although in someone's ideal world this might be true. It may sound cynical but things happen and that’s where you can run into trouble (ie: There are people who are married/etc. for years but suddenly contract HIV).
- I feel that the target audience is for the most part white middle-class heterosexual women. (ie: sex = heterosexual intercourse is a common theme)
Although some parts should be read critically, I’d recommend this book to anyone who wants to read a great introduction to the wonderful world vaginas! (Although the correct term is actually the vulva.)
- Alice
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