Volume 1

An explanation of the real process of the 'spontaneous evolution of the foetus' ; With some remarks, intended to induce an inquiry, whether the practice of turning be not too generally had recourse to, in arm-presentations / By John C. Douglas.

  • Douglas, John C., 1777-1850.
Date:
1819
Catalogue details

Licence: Public Domain Mark

Credit: An explanation of the real process of the 'spontaneous evolution of the foetus' ; With some remarks, intended to induce an inquiry, whether the practice of turning be not too generally had recourse to, in arm-presentations / By John C. Douglas. Source: Wellcome Collection.

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    I i the trunk of the foetus, by opening its tho] rax or abdomen, or both; and when thus lessened, it may be more easily expelled, af¬ ter the manner of the unaided evolution; or the practitioner might still further hasten this process, by fixing a blunt diook or crotchet, or (when practicable) his fingers, on the pel¬ vis of the fcetusy and thereby encourage its descent. i . j I cannot, however, avoid to enter my pro¬ test against the doctrine recommened by somei of fixing the instrument at random on any part of the fertus which happens to be nearest; because, if the physician fix it on any of the superior ribs, he might pull with hercu¬ lean force, and yet not be able to bring down the body, unless he unfortunately separate it from the head, which rests over the pubisy and which neither can descend itself, whilst the cavity of the pelvis is occupied by the trunk, nor will it permit the upper part of the thorax to he pulled down, unless the neck first give way. I therefore caution the practitioner to fix liis instrument, in such