ABSTRACT

The paper examines an alternative way of exploring women's health, one which is informed by the critical health psychology paradigm. Feminist principles are also applied to these issues, pointing out inequities in assessment, treatment and access to medical care. The relevance of social sciences for the biomedical paradigm is outlined. Issues highlighted include: knowledge production in women's health; biological essentialization of women as reproducers; and decontextualization of women's health risks. The paper also suggests ways in which health psychology may contribute to a better understanding and responding to women's health concerns.

KEYWORDS: gender, critical psychology, women's health