In Sweden, the relationship between gender studies and gender equality politics has been highly contested. In this chapter, we argue that there are many benefits for both gender research and gender equality policy development to maintain a close relationship. In the chapter, we discuss an interactive research approach developed when studying how civil servants implement gender mainstreaming. Civil servants often deal with many difficult-to-solve questions or dilemmas when they implement gender equality objectives and strategies. Gender equality objectives are often vague and complex, which leads to discussions they should be translated into particular public domains and organizational settings which impact on the end-results. To gain a better understanding we study how civil servants reason and what dilemmas they face in the implementation. Theoretical and ideological tensions inherent in feminist theory and practice become apparent in gender mainstreaming implementation. The interactive approach developed makes the different dilemmas visible in order also for the civil servants to reflect on future strategies. A central argument is that dilemmas can be problematic if ignored but fruitful if used as starting points for discussions. The chapter draws on a case study of two gender mainstreaming initiatives. Different phases in the interactive approach are discussed.