Course overview
In this course, reproductive health will be considered from clinical, epidemiological and social perspectives, with the aim of reaching an integrated understanding. Topics to be investigated will include sex education, unintended pregnancy, health care in pregnancy and the postpartum period, reproductive disorders and cancers. Concepts such as sex/gender stereotyping and their role in shaping reproductive health, particularly of girls and young women, will be explored as well as policies and other interventions to address this. Attention will be given to marginalized groups and strategies to reduce inequalities in reproductive health. In addition to gaining specialised knowledge of this area, students will have the opportunity to engage with current scientific and political debates and will develop skills in critical thinking and communication.
Course learning outcomes
- Describe a range of reproductive health topics for young people and adults, recognising gender diversity
- Apply clinical, epidemiological and social perspectives to integrate understanding of specific reproductive health topics, from biological through to societal
- Critically examine improvements in reproductive health including reasons for lack of progress in specific domains, places and populations
- Apply concepts such sex/gender stereotyping to show how reproductive health is harmed by gender norms and critically examine policies, laws and activities to address this
- Compare reproductive health issues and priorities in Australia with those in other parts of the world, or other times in history, and explain some reasons for different patterns
- Communicate scientific information clearly in spoken and written English, acknowledging areas where there is debate or uncertainty and respecting cultural and personal sensitivities