Lena Levine

Lena Levine

Name	Lena Levine
Birth name
Birth date	May 17, 1903
Birth place	Brooklyn, New York, USA
Death date	January 9, 1965
Death place	New York City, New York, USA
Alma mater
Occupation	Psychiatrist, Gynecologist
Years active
Organization
Known for	Birth control advocacy, sex education
Notable works
Spouse(s)
Website

Lena Levine (May 17, 1903 – January 9, 1965) was an American psychiatrist and gynecologist renowned for her pioneering work in birth control advocacy and sex education. Her contributions significantly advanced women's reproductive rights and sexual health education in the mid-20th century.

Early Life and Education

Lena Levine was born in Brooklyn, New York, to a family of Jewish immigrants. She excelled academically and pursued higher education at Hunter College, where she earned her undergraduate degree. Levine then attended the New York University School of Medicine, graduating in 1927. She completed her residency in psychiatry and gynecology, fields in which she would later make significant contributions.

Career and Contributions

Levine's career was marked by her dedication to women's health and reproductive rights. She worked at the Margaret Sanger Research Bureau, where she collaborated with Margaret Sanger, a prominent birth control activist. Levine's work focused on providing women with access to contraceptive methods and educating them about sexual health.

Birth Control Advocacy

Lena Levine was a staunch advocate for birth control at a time when the topic was controversial. She believed that women should have the right to control their reproductive choices and access safe and effective contraceptive methods. Her efforts contributed to the broader acceptance and availability of birth control in the United States.

Sex Education

In addition to her work in birth control, Levine was a pioneer in sex education. She authored several publications aimed at educating both the public and medical professionals about sexual health. Her approach was progressive for the time, emphasizing the importance of understanding human sexuality as a natural and healthy part of life.

Publications

Lena Levine wrote extensively on topics related to women's health, birth control, and sex education. Some of her notable works include:

• The Modern Woman's Guide to Sex
• The Sexually Responsive Woman

These publications were instrumental in changing public perceptions about sexuality and empowering women with knowledge about their bodies.

Legacy

Lena Levine's work laid the groundwork for future advancements in women's reproductive rights and sexual health education. Her advocacy and educational efforts helped to destigmatize discussions about sex and contraception, paving the way for more open and informed conversations in society.

Also see

• Margaret Sanger
• Birth control movement in the United States
• Sex education
• Reproductive rights