Description
Book SynopsisRural Women’s Sexuality, Reproductive Health, and Illiteracy examines the intimate lives of women in the developing world, their sexuality, and views on family planning and gender inequality. Providing insights on cultural traditions and understanding of modern medicine, it is essential for public health and anthropology scholars and practitioners.
Trade ReviewThis is a readable account of a fascinating career in international health and family planning. Part memoir and part analysis, Women’s Sexuality gives us the big picture of women’s situation in poor and marginalized communities. The author takes a positive attitude in the face of difficulties that might overwhelm others, provoking the reader to ask, ‘What would I do in such situations?’ The author challenges the complacent and the corrupt to do something about female illiteracy and the ‘health illiteracy’ resulting from it. The specter of HIV/AIDS looms large, as the reader gets a close-up view of women’s struggles for survival and coping strategies that include ‘survival sex.’ -- Suzanne Hanchett, Planning Alternatives for Change, LLC
This book offers a superb illustration of how anthropology and qualitative analysis may significantly enhance population and reproductive health policies. -- John May, Population Reference Bureau
At last, in one volume, Maynard-Tucker brings together her vast and valuable insights as one of the—perhaps the—most distinguished career applied anthropologists. She documents firsthand the common and persistent barriers to achieving rural women’s health throughout the world, as well as their survival strategies in the face of globalization—many of which entail unfortunate health compromises. A superb ethnographer, Maynard-Tucker practices what she preaches in the most challenging of environments and tells the authentic tales, to the benefit of us all. -- Kathy Oths, University of Alabama
Table of ContentsChapter 1: International Development and Rural Health Chapter 2: Peru: First Experience in the Field Chapter 3: Haiti: The Challenge Chapter 4: Africa: Women’s Conditions Chapter 5: Indonesia and Morocco: Birthing Huts and Self-Medication Chapter 6: Madagascar, Senegal, and India: Sex Work Chapter 7: Nepal and Madagascar: Broadening the Reach of Health Conclusion: Lessons Learned?
