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Childbirth in England 1660-1770: A Comprehensive Examination of Maternal and Infant Health and Welfare

Travis Foster

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Published in The Making Of Man Midwifery: Childbirth In England 1660 1770 (Routledge Library Editions: History Of Medicine 13)

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Childbirth is a momentous event in the life of any woman and her family. In the early modern period, childbirth was a particularly dangerous time for both mother and child due to a variety of factors, including poor sanitation, lack of medical knowledge, and limited access to healthcare. In England, the period from 1660 to 1770 was a time of significant social and economic change, which had a profound impact on the experience of childbirth for women.

The Making of Man Midwifery: Childbirth in England 1660 1770 (Routledge Library Editions: History of Medicine 13)

The Making of Man-Midwifery: Childbirth in England, 1660-1770 (Routledge Library Editions: History of Medicine Book 13)

by Adrian Wilson

5 out of 5

Language	:	English
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Changing Childbirth Practices

One of the most significant changes in childbirth practices during this period was the rise of medical intervention. Prior to the 17th century, childbirth was primarily managed by midwives, who were often experienced and skilled in assisting women through labor and delivery. However, as medical knowledge expanded and new technologies were developed, physicians began to play a more prominent role in childbirth. This shift was driven in part by the belief that medical practitioners had a better understanding of the human body and could therefore provide a more scientific approach to childbirth.

Another significant change during this period was the increasing use of pain relief during labor. In the past, women had relied on traditional methods of pain relief, such as herbal remedies and massage. However, in the 18th century, the use of opium and other drugs became more common. This was a significant development, as it allowed women to experience less pain during childbirth. However, it also carried with it the risk of addiction and other side effects.

Maternal and Infant Health

Despite these advances, maternal and infant mortality rates remained high during this period. The most common cause of maternal death was postpartum hemorrhage, which occurred when the uterus failed to contract properly after delivery. Other common causes of maternal death included infection, eclampsia, and puerperal fever. Infant mortality rates were also high, with approximately one in four infants dying before their first birthday. The most common causes of infant death were prematurity, birth defects, and infectious diseases.

Social Factors Influencing Childbirth

In addition to medical factors, a variety of social factors also influenced the experience of childbirth during this period. One of the most important factors was the social class of the woman giving birth. Wealthy women had access to better medical care and were more likely to survive childbirth and have healthy babies. Poor women, on the other hand, were more likely to experience complications during childbirth and were more likely to die as a result. Another important factor was the age of the woman giving birth. Women who gave birth in their late teens or early twenties were more likely to have healthy babies than women who gave birth in their late thirties or early forties.

The Role of Midwives and Physicians

Midwives played a vital role in childbirth during this period. They were responsible for providing care to women throughout pregnancy, labor, and delivery. Midwives also played a role in educating women about childbirth and providing them with emotional support. Physicians, on the other hand, were more likely to be consulted in cases of complications during childbirth. They also played a role in developing new childbirth practices and technologies.

Childbirth in England 1660-1770 was a complex and challenging experience for women. The period saw significant changes in childbirth practices, maternal and infant health, and the role of midwives and physicians. Despite these changes, maternal and infant mortality rates remained high, and childbirth continued to be a dangerous event for both mothers and children.

The Making of Man-Midwifery: Childbirth in England, 1660-1770 (Routledge Library Editions: History of Medicine Book 13)

by Adrian Wilson

5 out of 5