Hi Everyone! And thanks for your interest in reading "Woman: An Intimate Geography"! Since each topic is has so much information and is perfectly contained in one chapter, I will be making weekly threads per chapter to discuss each aspect of female biology described in this book. Note that there is a 1999 version, as well as a 2014 refresh with updated/additional information. I am using the 2014 version.

These threads will primarily focus on one book, and I ask that the discussion generally limit to the book itself. If after reading, you went off to do additional research, I encourage you to share how that has supplemented your engagement with the book. And of course, if anyone decides to pick up this book at a later date, you're welcome (and encouraged) to continue the conversation!

Link to previous chapters

Ova, Chromosomes, Body, Clitoris, Uterus, Hysterectomies, Breasts

Holy Water

Breast Milk

Chapter eight is about breast milk.

I did not have so many thoughts on this chapter. I understand that to breastfeed or not has been an ongoing discussion among women, but never really gave it much though as I doubt I'll ever get pregnant...

It was interesting learning about the nutritional components of breast milk, and how it differs 1) across species, and 2) depending on environmental factors. It's wonderful to know how resourceful breast milk production is, "[b]reast milk is designed to be maximally exploited without maximally exploiting."

Edit: Next chapter