G J Barker-Benfield 
Horrors of the Half-Known Life [PDF ebook] 
Male Attitudes Toward Women and Sexuality in 19th. Century America

Now updated and back in print, this controversial and pioneering work is a startling portrait of male attitudes towards masculinity, women and sexuality in nineteenth century America. Through an examination of the elimination of midwifery, the origins of gynaecology, and general attitudes and advice about sexuality, the author brilliantly illuminates the state of manhood and misogyny in nineteenth century America.