Summary Macroeconomic theory identifies sectors which will be differentially affected by structural adjustment. This article considers the gender dimensions of such effects and how they can be analysed using large scale household surveys. Examples are given using the 1986 LSMS of the Côte d'Ivoire focusing on gender differentials in access to formal employment and education and on the relationship between the gender distribution of income and the pattern of expenditures. Some advantages and limitations of such datasets are considered.