Subject
Midwifery -- Early works to 1800 Books
Best books
John Maubray
The Female Physician Containing all the diseases incident to that sex, in virgins, wives, and widows; together with their causes and symptoms, their degrees of danger, and respective methods of prevention and cure: to which is added, the whole art of new improv'd midwifery; comprehending the necessary qualifications of a midwife, and particular directions for laying women, in all cases of difficult and preternatural births; together with the diet and regimen of both the mother and child.
"The Female Physician" by John Maubray is a medical treatise written in the early 18th century. This comprehensive work addresses various diseases specific to women, including those affecting virgins, wives, and widows, and offers preventive measures and treatments. It also delves into midwifery, emphasizing the skills necessary for practitioners and providing guidance for childbirth. This text serves as both a reference for medical professionals and a resource for women seeking knowledge about their health. The opening of the book begins with a dedication to learned societies in the medical field, emphasizing the author's intent to provide a substantial work that addresses women's health issues overlooked by male physicians. The author reflects on the historical context of medical knowledge and the necessity of understanding female-specific conditions. Following the dedication, the preface outlines the book's structure and content, suggesting that it will detail not only the various diseases faced by women across different stages of life but also practical instructions for midwives. The author aims to compile and clarify existing knowledge while interspersing philosophical reflections, all intended to serve both educated readers and those less familiar with medical literature.
Elizabeth Nihell
A Treatise on the Art of Midwifery Setting Forth Various Abuses Therein, Especially as to the Practice With Instruments: the Whole Serving to Put All Rational Inquirers in a Fair Way of Very Safely Forming Their Own Judgement Upon the Question; Which It Is Best to Employ, in Cases of Pregnancy and Lying-in, a Man-midwife; Or, a Midwife
"A Treatise on the Art of Midwifery" by Elizabeth Nihell is a scientific publication written in the mid-18th century. The work critiques the increasing practice of male midwives and the use of instruments in childbirth, arguing for the superiority and necessity of female practitioners. Nihell seeks to empower women by urging them to take charge of their own health and childbirth decisions through informed judgment. The opening of the treatise establishes Nihell’s firm stance against the misconceptions surrounding midwifery, emphasizing the delicate nature of childbirth and the importance of preserving traditional female practices. She addresses the historical context of midwifery, asserting that women have always been the primary caregivers in this field, supported by scripture and ancient practices that favored female practitioners. Nihell confronts various objections to women’s capabilities in midwifery, underscores the dangers posed by male practitioners employing instruments, and advocates for the natural skill and tenderness of women midwives, all while calling for a re-examination of societal prejudices against them.
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