Our Bodies, Ourselves

March 28, 2005
The original edition of 1970's now-classic Our Bodies, Ourselves
has sold more than three million copies, and the revised and expanded edition will likely prove equally popular among women of all ages. According to the authors, some of them among the original contributors, knowledge is power, but women will make little change in the medical and health-care industries unless they join forces with other women at home and around the world. Like its predecessor, this volume is wide in scope (but lacking in depth), and has a profoundly feminist perspective as it emphasizes sexual health, reproductive rights, community-based organization and the political, economic and social conditions that limit women's access to quality health care. Much of the new information details recent health research on women's needs and inequities in medical care for men and women, and reflects the experiences of different ethnicities, sexual preferences and economic backgrounds. Women are the primary consumers of health care in the U.S., but, the authors say, they are grossly underserved. In addition, the medical community has viewed many life-stage conditions—pregnancy, premenstrual syndrome, menopause—as illnesses rather than natural processes that require teams of supportive practitioners. The book's rousing political orientation may motivate readers to access the numerous resources listed or the companion OBOS
Web site. More than a book, OBOS
is a health movement and deserves a place on every woman's bookshelf.

Starred review from November 15, 2011

First published in 1971, this groundbreaking resource for women's health is available in a revised edition to celebrate its 40th anniversary. It once again offers women the most current and accessible information about all aspects of their health and sexuality. This edition omits some information on topics such as nutrition, emotional health, and medical conditions (e.g., heart disease) that affect women differently because it is available in many other resources. The book instead concentrates on the core issues featured in the original edition--women's sexuality and reproductive health--and offers the latest information on safer sex, birth control, childbirth, menopause and aging, and relationships. It includes discussions on gender identity, domestic violence, infertility, and navigating the health-care system. The book also offers stories gathered from online discussions on the companion website (www.ourbodiesourselves.org) to add personal details to the relationships chapter and introduces international contributors for a global perspective on women's health. VERDICT This is still the bible for women's health; an outstanding resource that belongs in all health collections.--Barbara M. Bibel, Oakland P.L., CA

Copyright 2011 Library Journal, LLC Used with permission.