Conventionally one conceptualises the research relationship as one between two sets of free agents — researchers and participants — who may have different levels of control over the research process. However, conducting research on women inevitably absorbs into the interaction several other players without whose assent women may not act. It is true that every researcher and participant is entangled in a network of power relations as funders, the state, employers, landlords and others influence the direction and scope of research and the actions of researchers and participants.