Part 1. The female life cycle 1830-1914 -- The epochs/ages of female life. The biological destiny of women. Female health. The gynaecological view of women -- Part 2. Menstruation and adolescence -- Menstruation. Adolescent education. Chlorosis. Hysteria. 'Corset-mania" -- Part 3. Marriage and maternity -- Marriage and maternity : women's domestic sphere. Pregnancy. Miscarriage/abortion. Childbirth. The chloroform controversy. Puerperal fever. Lying-in -- Part 4. Female sexuality -- Sex education for females. Puberty and the passions. "The secret sin of self-abuse" Clitoridectomy : the Baker Brown controversy. Birth control -- Part 5. From menopause to death -- Menopause. Experiences of ageing. Death in the family.