Justine Siegemund was a German midwife who lived in the 17th century. She is best known for her publication “The Court Midwife”, which was one of the first books on midwifery written by a woman. The book was published in 1690 and contained a detailed description of the birthing process and the various techniques used by midwives at that time.
Siegemund was born in Potsdam, Germany, in 1636 and later moved to Berlin, where she worked as a midwife. She had a reputation for being skilled and knowledgeable in her field, and she was often called upon to assist with difficult births. Her book, “The Court Midwife”, was based on her experiences and was intended to help other midwives improve their skills.
Siegemund’s book was controversial at the time, as it challenged the traditional medical establishment’s views on childbirth. Her emphasis on natural childbirth and her use of practical techniques such as massage and breathing exercises were seen as radical by some. However, her book was widely read and helped to establish midwifery as a respected profession in Germany.
Siegemund died in Berlin in 1705, but her legacy lives on. “The Court Midwife” is still considered an important work in the history of midwifery, and Siegemund is remembered as a pioneer in her field.