Taking a multidisciplinary approach, this book presents an insightful exploration of the theoretical and practical advances in women's health care. The opening part examines the various shapes that a new framework in women's health might take. Such issues as using the male experience as the norm, reducing women to merely reproductive entities, and promoting the notion of biological primacy are addressed. In the second part, contributors carry the argument for reframing women's health into the sociopolitical arena, looking at women in the Third World and at integrating women's health into health care reform. Part Three examines significant issues dealing with reproduction and sexuality, while Part Four focuses on the impact of violence and abuse. Part Five covers research issues including clinical, behavioural, feminist and legal perspectives. In conclusion, practice issues such as provider-patient relationships, weight control and lesbian health are explored.