Human sexuality and feminism: a new approach to perinatal social work

This article explores issues of human sexuality and feminism as they apply to perinatal social work services in high-risk reproductive situations. Childbearing will be examined in four phases: pre-pregnancy and conception, pregnancy, labor and childbirth, and post-partum. Although the multiple issues of each phase are recognized, the article will concentrate primarily on the sexual issues. The Women's Movement has influenced changes resulting in a more humane approach to childbearing. The choices now available to women will provide a forum for discussion of interventions to be made by perinatal social workers in high-risk reproductive situations.