Subject
Obstetrics -- 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.
pseud. Aristotle
Aristotle's works: Containing the Master-piece, Directions for Midwives, and Counsel and Advice to Child-bearing Women with Various Useful Remedies
"Aristotle's works" by a pseudo-Aristotle is a sex manual and midwifery book first published in 1684. Falsely attributed to the ancient philosopher, this anonymous work became one of early modern England's most widely reprinted medical texts. It frankly addresses topics from sexual pleasure and anatomy to pregnancy and childbirth, acknowledging women's sexuality in ways later centuries would suppress. Based on outdated humoral theory, it remained in print into the twentieth century, offering intimate guidance to generations of readers.
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.
Unknown
Les caquets de l'accouchée nouvelle édition revue sur les pièces originales
"Les caquets de l'accouchée" by Edouard Fournier and Le Roux de Lincy is a satirical work written in the early 17th century. This collection captures the humorous and often pointed conversations of women gathered to visit an accouchée (a woman who has recently given birth), illustrating the customs, gossip, and societal norms of the time. It reflects on the behavior, preoccupations, and class dynamics of bourgeois Parisian women, serving as both entertainment and social commentary. The opening of the text establishes a vivid scene set in an accouchée's chamber where various women gather, each representing different social standings, anxieties, and desires. As they engage in lively banter, complaints about the state of marriage, the burdens of childbirth, and the gossip surrounding affluent households unfold. Amongst the humor is a portrait of the era's societal expectations, illustrating the pressures and absurdities of bourgeois life in 17th-century Paris, particularly through the comically embellished anecdotes recounted by the women. This initial glimpse sets the tone for a richly woven narrative that blends entertainment with sharper critiques of social customs and behaviors.
Lemuel (Surgeon) Gulliver
The Anatomist Dissected: or the man-midwife finely brought to bed. Being an examination of the conduct of Mr. St. Andre. Touching the late pretended rabbit-bearer; as it appears from his own narrative.
"The Anatomist Dissected: or the man-midwife finely brought to bed" by Gulliver is a satirical examination of a sensational incident in early 18th-century England, likely written in the early 1700s. This book is a scientific publication that aims to critique the gullibility surrounding a bizarre case involving a woman who purportedly gave birth to rabbits. Through a blend of humor and critical analysis, Gulliver addresses themes of ignorance in medical practice and the gullibility of the public concerning extraordinary claims. In this work, Gulliver critiques Mr. St. André, the surgeon who investigated the supposed rabbit births, detailing St. André's failure to recognize the absurdity of the situation. The narrative recounts how St. André was misled into believing in the legitimacy of the claim by a woman named Mary Toft, who allegedly delivered rabbits. Gulliver meticulously dissects St. André's reasoning and highlights his lack of discernment regarding anatomy and the signs of genuine childbirth. Throughout the book, Gulliver employs instances of absurdity and ignorance as tools to lampoon not only St. André but also the societal fascination with miraculous and preposterous events, ultimately exposing the dangers of such credulity within medical and scientific circles.
William Clark
The Province of Midwives in the Practice of their Art Instructing them in the timely knowledge of such difficulties as require the assistance of Men, for the preservation of Mother and Child; very necessary for the perusal of all the sex interested in the subject, and interspersed with some New and Useful Observations.
"The Province of Midwives in the Practice of their Art" by William Clark, M.D. is a scientific publication written in the mid-18th century. The book serves as a practical guide to midwifery, aiming to educate practitioners on the common difficulties encountered during childbirth and the necessary skills required to assist safely and effectively. It highlights the critical need for knowledgeable midwives to improve maternal and infant health outcomes. In this work, Clark discusses various topics related to childbirth, starting with the common signs and symptoms of labor and progressing to the intricate details of delivery. He expounds on the physiological aspects of childbirth, including positions for labor and the roles of the midwife, while also delineating when to seek medical assistance in complex cases. Through a combination of anatomical references and practical advice, the book seeks to reduce the risks associated with childbirth, particularly in less medically equipped rural areas where many midwives practiced. Clark emphasizes the importance of education and experience for midwives, aiming to enhance their understanding and ultimately improve the outcomes for mothers and infants alike.
Nathanael St. André
A Short Narrative of an Extraordinary Delivery of Rabbets, Perform'd by Mr. John Howard Surgeon at Guilford
"A Short Narrative of an Extraordinary Delivery of Rabbets, Perform'd by Mr. John Howard" is an unusual medical account written during the early 18th century. This book details the bizarre events surrounding the delivery of multiple rabbits from a woman named Mary Toft, who was treated by Mr. Howard, a surgeon in Guilford, England. The narrative addresses issues of medical anomalies and the societal curiosity surrounding the strange phenomenon of a woman purportedly giving birth to rabbits. In this account, the author, Mr. St. André, recounts his investigation into the claims made by Mary Toft, who allegedly experienced a series of labor-like pains resulting in the expulsion of several rabbits. Mr. Howard documents the details of the deliveries, noting the physical examinations and the medical peculiarities associated with the creatures. As the narrative progresses, it raises questions about the nature of the event—whether it was a genuine medical mystery or a case of deception. The book outlines the observations and testimonies from various medical professionals and witnesses while maintaining a tone of skepticism towards the claims. Ultimately, this narrative not only serves as a historical curiosity but also reflects the complexities of credulity and medical practice in the early 18th century.
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