John Maubray

John Maubray (c. 1700 – 1732) was a notable Scottish physician and obstetrician, recognized for his contributions to the field of obstetrics and midwifery during the early 18th century. He is best known for his work "The Female Physician," which provided insights into the practice of midwifery and the care of women during childbirth.

Early Life and Education

John Maubray was born in Scotland around the year 1700. Details about his early life and education are sparse, but it is believed that he pursued medical studies in Edinburgh, a city known for its burgeoning medical community during that period. He later moved to London, where he established his practice.

Career and Contributions

Maubray's career was primarily focused on the practice of obstetrics, a field that was undergoing significant changes during his lifetime. At a time when midwifery was largely dominated by women, Maubray was among the early male practitioners who sought to professionalize the field.

The Female Physician

In 1724, Maubray published "The Female Physician," a comprehensive text that addressed various aspects of women's health, pregnancy, and childbirth. The book was notable for its attempt to integrate traditional midwifery practices with emerging medical knowledge. Maubray advocated for the education of midwives and emphasized the importance of understanding female anatomy and physiology.

Advocacy for Man-Midwifery

Maubray was a proponent of "man-midwifery," a controversial practice at the time, which involved male physicians attending to childbirth. He argued that male practitioners could bring scientific knowledge and surgical skills to the practice, which could improve outcomes for mothers and infants. This stance was met with resistance from traditional midwives and some segments of society who viewed childbirth as a domain best left to women.

Controversies

Maubray's advocacy for man-midwifery and his sometimes unconventional views led to controversies. He was known for his belief in the "Pygmalion" theory, which suggested that a woman's imagination during pregnancy could influence the physical characteristics of her child. This theory, while popular in some circles, was criticized by many of his contemporaries.

Death and Legacy

John Maubray died in 1732, leaving behind a legacy as a pioneer in the field of obstetrics. His work laid the groundwork for future developments in the care of pregnant women and the professionalization of midwifery. Despite the controversies, his contributions to medical literature and his efforts to improve childbirth practices are recognized as significant.

Also see

• Obstetrics
• Midwifery
• History of medicine
• Man-midwifery