Ancient history

What tools would a colonial midwife use?

Herbal Remedies

* Pennyroyal: stimulates the uterus, inducing menstruation or abortion

* Black cohosh: eases labor pains, helps control bleeding, and stimulates milk production

* Cinnamon: helps control bleeding and soothes the uterus

* Clove: helps control bleeding and soothes the uterus

* Cumin: stimulates the uterus, inducing menstruation or abortion

* Fennel: stimulates milk production and eases labor pains

* Ginger: helps alleviate nausea and vomiting

* Hops: eases anxiety, promotes relaxation, and aids in sleep

* Lavender: helps relieve pain and anxiety

* Peppermint: helps alleviate nausea and vomiting

* Raspberry leaves: helps tone the uterus and prepare it for labor

* Rosemary: helps stimulate circulation and energy levels

Other Tools:

* Birth chair: a special chair designed to support a woman in labor

* Birth stool: a low stool that allows a woman to squat during labor

* Cord clamp: a device used to clamp the umbilical cord after it is cut

* Douche: a device used to cleanse the vagina

* Episiotomy scissors: scissors used to make an episiotomy, a surgical incision in the perineum to enlarge the birth canal

* Forceps: a tool used to help deliver the baby's head

* Hot water bottle: a bottle filled with hot water used to provide warmth and comfort

* Lancet: a small knife used to pierce the amniotic sac

* Midwifery kit: a collection of tools and supplies used by midwives to assist in childbirth

* Pelvimeter: a device used to measure the width of the pelvis

* Stethoscope: a device used to listen to the baby's heartbeat

* Sutures: thread used to stitch up a tear or incision

* Syringe: a device used to administer medication or flush out the vagina