This volume contains the 1983 second edition of Textbook of Contraceptive Practice. The second edition represented a comprehensive reappraisal of the subject, taking account of the great expansion in information on all aspects of family planning that had occurred since the first edition was published in 1969. It emphasized the historical, social and political, and clinical perspectives of the subject. Advances in oral contraception, in the use of intra-uterine devices and in surgical methods of family planning were considered in relation to consumer choice and their overall risks and benefits. All techniques of contraception, from folk methods to methods of abortion and sterilization, were discussed in detail and evaluated.