For the purposes of this book, the terms “female” and male” generally relate to natal sex, or, the parts someone was born with. For reasons solely related to language clarity and anatomically relevant content, some verbiage is gender-specific. Content is written to be inclusive of individuals of all gender expressions and identities. This reflects a vacancy in adequate language and research in the medical field, but progress in the area is underway. See chapter 26 for specifics on transgender care.
Next, this table of contents is meant to serve as something of an index so that you can use this book as a field guide. It is both a tool and a story.