Barbara Seaman

Barbara Seaman 1980

American author and activist

Barbara Ann Seaman (September 11, 1935 – February 27, 2008) was an American author and activist known for her work in the field of women's health. She was a co-founder of the National Women's Health Network and a prominent figure in the women's liberation movement.

Early life and education

Barbara Seaman was born Barbara Ann Rosner in Brooklyn, New York City. She attended Oberlin College and later graduated from Barnard College in 1956.

Career

Seaman began her career as a journalist, writing for various publications including Ladies' Home Journal and Family Circle. Her work often focused on issues related to women's health and reproductive rights.

Women's health advocacy

Seaman's first book, The Doctors' Case Against the Pill (1969), brought attention to the potential health risks associated with oral contraceptives. The book led to Senate hearings in 1970, which resulted in the inclusion of patient information leaflets with birth control pills.

In 1975, Seaman co-founded the National Women's Health Network, an organization dedicated to advocating for women's health issues and providing information to women about their health care options.

Later work

Seaman continued to write and advocate for women's health throughout her life. Her other notable works include Free and Female (1972) and The Greatest Experiment Ever Performed on Women (2003). She was also a vocal critic of the pharmaceutical industry and its influence on medical practice.

Personal life

Seaman was married twice and had three children. She passed away on February 27, 2008, in Manhattan, New York City.

Legacy

Barbara Seaman is remembered as a pioneering figure in the field of women's health advocacy. Her work has had a lasting impact on the way women's health issues are addressed and has inspired many to continue the fight for better health care for women.

See also

• Women's health
• Reproductive rights
• National Women's Health Network
• Oral contraceptive