The medical ethics of the 'father of gynaecology', Dr J Marion Sims.
Vesico-vaginal fistula (VVF) was a common ailment among American women in the 19th century. Prior to that time, no successful surgery had been developed for the cure of this condition until Dr J Marion Sims perfected a successful surgical technique in 1849. Dr Sims used female slaves as research subjects over a four-year period of experimentation (1845-1849). This paper discusses the controversy surrounding his use of powerless women and whether his actions were acceptable during that historical period.
Ojanuga
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School of Social Work, University of Alabama.
D004992:Ethics, Medical; D005260:Female; D006176:Gynecology / Q000266:history*; D049672:History, 19th Century; D006801:Humans; D014481:United States; D014719:Vesicovaginal Fistula / Q000266:history*; D035862:Vulnerable Populations