BIO 226W
Nazareth College

Altering of the Female Body

       In our society, the biology of women, including health issues facing women today, have received extensive and ever-increasing research, focus, and public attention.  Although it is a continuous pursuit, knowledge and awareness in these areas will undoubtedly liberate women in all aspects, particularly regarding control of their health and sexuality.

                 This is not so clear, however, with women in other religions, cultures, and countries.  We are often unaware of the oppression, basic issues of health, marriage, and sexuality experienced by these women.  In some of these areas this web page seeks to shed some light.  Hopefully, you will find the following information interesting, and you will be persuaded to investigate further some of the more in-depth links and references we have incorporated. 

    Below are the links to two of our cross-cultural biology of women web pages.  We hope you ENJOY!!

• Female Circumcision: Levels of Alteration, Biological Ramifications, and Cultural Causes
• Other Culturally Influenced Body Alterations: Cultural Practices such as Chinese Foot Binding, Ringed Neck Stretching, and the Wasp Waist

Nazareth College
Rochester, New York