| Date | |
|---|---|
| Location | Unknown |
| Description | Obstructed labour could result in the death of the mother due to infection; 19th century destructive instruments were used to remove the deceased foetus in these instances. These instruments were vital in a time when poor diet caused diseases such as rickets, which could affect the shape of the pelvis and make natural labour problematic. They were also crucial to save the life of the mother, as caesareans were not a safe option prior to the introduction of anaesthetics and antiseptic techniques. The instruments shown are a cranioclast, medical crochet and Simpson’s perforator. |
| Format | |
| Original Index Number | HC.I.33.25, HC.I.33.1, HC.I.33.31 |
