In recent years women's issues have begun to move higher up the health services agenda. However, there have been few attempts to set out the rationale for this, or to document the good practice initiatives that have resulted. This unique book undertakes both these tasks. The first part examines the theoretical, conceptual and empirical underpinning of current arguments for greater gender awareness in health planning; while the second explores a variety of schemes designed to put these new ideas into practice. The aim of these case studies is to show what can be done, but also to identify the many challenges and pitfalls involved.As the first book of its kind, Women and Health Services will be useful to teachers and students on a wide range of both professional and academic courses. It will also be an important resource for policy makers and practitioners, offering a rationale for change as well as concrete examples of what has been achieved within the current structure of health services. Features* two-part structure provides a combination of theory and practice in one volume* tackles key issues of central concern to target audience* each section features an introductory overview by Lesley Doyal* topic-based approach makes it ideal for use on courses with students* written and edited by leading authorities in the field