A predominance of statements on the negative impact of menstruation comes from the psychoanalytic literature as well as from the more behavioral studies just mentioned. Deutsch (1944) has related menstruation to reproduction and its implication that women take on the demanding and stressful roles of being both nurturant and an object of dependency.

A related problem is that most of the research is based on self reports, which are often unreliable and, more important, influenced by social expectations. Few studies actually evaluate hormone levels, leaving the actual cycle phase in some doubt. The menstrual cycle duration is sensitive to external factors, including stress and tension.

The main trend revealed by studies of popular attitudes is although some women in western societies have an overall negative image of menopause, it is not as widespread as was previously thought. Today, the vast majority of women at mid life do not express regret at reaching menopause, do not report more symptoms or poorer health status, and do not increase their use of medical services.

The double standard, one code of sexual behavior for boys and the opposite for girls, has been pilloried, and most people believe that it no longer exists. Yet studies show that, for teen boys, there is still subtle pressure from parents to "prove their manhood" by becoming sexually active with girls.

"I can't have babies," the girl complained into camera.

Deirdre, the interviewer, blinked in amazement. "You are on this program because you have AIDS."

"I know," the girl spoke petulantly. "What really ticks me off is my tubes are infected as well. Now I can't have babies."

"Why are you wearing that awful old jacket?" Abbie asked. Her daughter, Franny, was embarrassed. "You know. It covers my -- you know."

Abbie did know. Only too well. Her daughter's breasts were over growing, just as hers did when she was 13. Franny raged. "Why won't they stop growing? It's gross. I hate them."

"Mothers linked to daughters' eating disorders." In late 1991, these headlines were blazoned in newspapers and magazines. They came from the findings of a study into female attitudes towards food and beauty.

In America, there exists a false concept of the female form which is demonstrated in thousands of subtle ways. One not so subtle way is the popular Barbie doll, and others of her ilk. Assuming a bust measurement of 36 inches, Barbie's proportions work out at a 36 inch bust, an 18 inch waist, and 33 inch hips.

Though rare in youth, breast cancer can occur at any age. The peak ages are from 50 to 60. Factors such as benign lumps, number of pregnancies and obesity has not been shown to significantly increase the rate. Breast cancer in a sister or mother, especially before menopause, increases the risk by 3 to 4 times. Early pregnancy, before age 18, may have some protective effect.

Fine needle biopsy uses breast X-rays to pinpoint the exact site of the lump. A needle is then inserted to remove several cells, which are examined to determine if they are malignant. No incision is made, and only a few cells are removed. Fine needle biopsy can be performed without delay, and the results can be available the same day. It is relatively pain free. There is some pressure during the X-ray, followed by a slight needle prick. It leaves less of a scar, is less time consuming, and costs far less than a surgical biopsy.