This course introduces students to the biological and social study of reproductive health in the contemporary United States. Students will be introduced to the basic biomedical concepts framing our understanding of fetal and child development, as well as the study of biological markers indicating environmental exposures that shape pregnancy and women's health. At the same time, students will learn about the ever-changing environment of maternal and child health and also consider recent developments relating to the COVID-19 pandemic. We will ask: Are women of reproductive age disproportionately at-risk from particular social factors or commercial practices? How might in-utero exposure to environmental toxins affect health later in life? In what ways does COVID-19 influence current policies in relation to women's health? Topics covered include: reproductive justice, media representations of birth, pregnancy and health, biological markers, environmental exposure, and developmental pathways.

Utilizing a global lens, students study what it means to be "empowered" across cultures as well as analyze how empowerment is currently being measured and defined in health research. We compare and contrast gender gender ideals and household experience across locations and cultures for women and girls. Topics include recent developments in reproductive health, menstrual health, gender-based discrimination and women in the workforce. Assigned readings and in-class discussions draw upon the disciplines of public health and psychology, incorporating diverse kinds of media ranging from scientific literature to film in order to engage with experiences from around the world.