Our Bodies, Ourselves

Ourbodiesourselves-1973

Our Bodies, Ourselves is a book about women's health and sexuality produced by the non-profit organization Our Bodies Ourselves (originally called the Boston Women's Health Book Collective). First published in 1970, it was a groundbreaking text, offering a comprehensive overview of issues related to women's health and sexuality, including sexual health, reproductive health, birth control, and menopause. The book was revolutionary for its time, providing information that was not widely available or discussed openly, and it played a significant role in the women's liberation movement.

History

The origins of Our Bodies, Ourselves can be traced back to a women's liberation conference held at Emmanuel College in Boston in 1969. A group of women gathered to discuss their experiences with doctors and the healthcare system, finding common ground in their frustrations with the lack of information and respect shown to women by the medical establishment. This led to the formation of the Boston Women's Health Book Collective, which began work on a newsprint booklet titled Women and Their Bodies. The booklet was designed to share knowledge and empower women to make informed decisions about their health and bodies. By 1970, the booklet had evolved into a 193-page book, renamed Our Bodies, Ourselves to emphasize women taking full ownership of their bodies.

Over the years, Our Bodies, Ourselves has been updated and expanded in numerous editions to reflect changes in medical knowledge, societal attitudes, and the legal landscape regarding women's health. It has been translated into multiple languages and adapted for different cultures, making its wealth of information accessible to a global audience.

Content and Impact

The content of Our Bodies, Ourselves covers a wide range of topics related to women's health and sexuality, including anatomy, sexual orientation, gender identity, mental health, and the effects of societal and cultural attitudes on women's health. The book is well-known for its candid discussions of sexuality, including the importance of sexual pleasure for women, a topic that was largely taboo at the time of its first publication.

The impact of Our Bodies, Ourselves has been profound. It has empowered generations of women with knowledge about their bodies, health, and rights, contributing significantly to the women's health movement. The book has been used in educational settings, women's health clinics, and personal studies, serving as a vital resource for information and advocacy.

Criticism and Controversy

Despite its widespread acclaim, Our Bodies, Ourselves has faced criticism and controversy, particularly from conservative groups who have challenged its frank discussions of sexuality, abortion, and LGBTQ+ issues. Some have argued that the book promotes ideologies and lifestyles they disagree with. However, supporters of the book argue that it provides essential, scientifically accurate information that helps women make informed decisions about their health and lives.

Legacy

The legacy of Our Bodies, Ourselves is evident in its lasting influence on the discourse surrounding women's health and its role in shaping health policies and practices. The book has inspired similar works and initiatives focused on empowering individuals with information about their health. The organization behind the book, Our Bodies Ourselves, continues to advocate for women's health and rights, adapting to new challenges and opportunities in the digital age.