1870s childbirth and post-natal care for mothers

Maternity, Women's History

Pamphlet

[MATERNITY] BABCOCK, L.A. Office of the Silver Uterine Supporter Manufactory, [1872]. First edition pamphlet. 6" x 9". 4 pages. Over the course of the 19th century, the average American woman gave birth to six children, not including children lost to miscarriages and stillbirths. Contraception was not widely available, and pregnancy and birth complications were frequent and dangerous. Babcock's Silver Uterine Supporter claimed to be "a RADICAL cure to thousands of ladies who have been confined to their rooms and beds for years..." "if used 30 or 60 consecutive days as directed; because its direct action is to CONTRACT and TONE the relaxed muscles and ligaments of the womb...." Babcock's instrument was invented to help women who suffered from uterine prolapse, a common condition affecting mothers. With multiple vaginal deliveries during childbirth, the muscles and ligaments around the uterus can weaken, causing the organ to shift. Babcock's instument, though not the radical cure it claimed to be, was part of an early effort to improve the experience of childbirth and post-natal care for mothers. Original folds. In very good condition.

Item #17430

Price: $175.00