Editorial

J. Marion Sims: A Defense of the Father of Gynecology

Authors: J. Patrick O'Leary, MD

Abstract

In this month's edition of the Southern Medical Journal, Jeffrey Sartin, MD, elucidates certain aspects of the practice and life of J. Marion Sims, the legendary founder of the specialty of gynecology. 1 This discussion is faithful in its depiction of many of the events in Sims' life and practice, although the overall tone of the article raises several moral and ethical questions. In the end, Sartin concludes that Sims may have used the downtrodden, indigent, and slaves of the day for his own personal gain, especially with regard to the condition of vesicovaginal fistula.

This content is limited to qualifying members.

Existing members, please login first

If you have an existing account please login now to access this article or view purchase options.

Purchase only this article ($25)

Create a free account, then purchase this article to download or access it online for 24 hours.

Purchase an SMJ online subscription ($75)

Create a free account, then purchase a subscription to get complete access to all articles for a full year.

Purchase a membership plan (fees vary)

Premium members can access all articles plus recieve many more benefits. View all membership plans and benefit packages.

References

1. Sartin, JS. J. Marion Sims, the father of gynecology: hero or villain?South Med J 2004;97:500–505.