Reproducing Women

"Reproducing Women" by Yi-Li Wu is a compelling exploration of the evolution of women's medicine during the Qing dynasty in China. Published by University of California Press in 2010, this hardback edition spans 378 pages and delves into the intricate intersection of childbirth, culture, and medical practices from 1644 to 1912. Wu meticulously examines the specialty of 'medicine for women' (fuke), shedding light on the societal and ideological factors that influenced perceptions of women's reproductive health. This insightful volume not only highlights the historical context of gynecology in China but also addresses broader themes surrounding the social life and customs of the time. "Reproducing Women" is essential reading for anyone interested in the historical narrative of reproductive medicine, women's health, and the cultural dynamics that have shaped them throughout history.