Abstract

The examination of the history of obstetrics uncovered a very interesting story of the obstetrical instruments such as the pessary, obstetrical forceps, and the birthing chair. Included in the thorough investigation of the use of these instruments, was the societal influences beginning in the Ancient Era and continuing into the Modem Era. Technological, gender, and cultural influences caused a different evolution in each of the tools.

My inquiry into the background of these three very interesting birthing aids revealed the extent to which birthing practices were constrained. In fact, it was not until the 1700' s that men began to be involved at all in the normal delivery of a child. However, the introduction ofmen into the birthing chamber was not a completely beneficial occurrence. Their ignorance of the correct use of the obstetrical instruments, the pessary and the obstetrical forceps, sometimes caused severe lacerations, and even holes in the reproductive system of the mother. Men's admission into the delivery room eventually did prove to be advantageous, leading, eventually, to the discovery of anesthesia and a more complete medical education. Technology, gender and culture also influenced the use of the birthing chair. The main advocates of the birthing chair were female midwives. The birthing chair was more commonly used before men began to be involved in the birthing process. For many reasons the birthing chair almost became extinct in the early 1900's, but is now making a comeback as a desired obstetrical instrument. The extinction of the pessary , the continued use and improvement of the forceps, and the comeback of the birthing chair were caused by society's views on delivery through the ages.