WGST 436: Reproductive Health Policy

Course Description

This course provides a comprehensive introduction to the field of reproductive health in the US. Understanding women’s reproductive health requires consideration of the intersections of gender, race, class, culture, geography, economic status, and nation within a sociopolitical context. The course introduces students to the historical trends in the regulation of women’s fertility and reproductive health. Readings draw from a number of different disciplines, including: law, medical studies, history, social sciences, and personal narratives to critically examine the intent and impact of current standards for reproductive health policy and practice. Topics include: reproductive justice, contraception, pregnancy, reproductive control, and family leave. Course discussions include a focus on health policy and activism to affect change related to women’s reproductive health, all within a framework of reproductive justice. A major emphasis is on developing critical thinking skills that can be applied to issues of women’s reproductive health in order to educate and empower students to become proactive healthcare consumers.