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TOKOLOGY
lai ^oob for Cberp Moman
ALICE B. STOCKHAM, M. D.
ILLUSTRATED
Maternal love! Thou word that sums all bliss;
Gives and receives all bliss, fullest when most
Thou eivest! —Ptlhtk
REVISED EDITION
R. F. FENNO & COMPANY
18 East 17th St., New York
BIOLOGY
LlDRARir
Entered according to Act of Congress, in the year 1893,
By ALICE B. STOCKHAM, M. D.
In the ofiBce of Librarian of Congress, Washington, D. C.
Entered according to Act of Congress, in the year 1886,
By ALICE B. STOCKHAM, M. D.
In the office of the Librarian of Congress, at Washington.
Entered according to Act of Congress, in the year 1883,
By ALICE B. STOCKHAM, M. D.
In the office of the Librarian of Congress, at Washington.
ALL RIGHTS RESERVED.
TOKOLOGY IS DEDICATED
first:
To My Daughter,
WHOSE FAITH IN THE PHYSICAL
REDEMPTJON OF WOMAN BY CORRECT
LIVING HAS BEEN A CONSTANT
inspiration in its
production!
second:
To all Women
WHO, following the lessons
HEREIN taught, WILL BE SAVED THE
sufferings peculiar to
their sex.
IVl O'^'l^^'
^J&
CONTENTS^
Portrait of Author.
CHAPTER L
PAINLESS CHILDBIRTH.
Painless childbirth — ^Testimony of travelers, missionaries and physi-
cians — Sufferings in childbirth greater in this country than in any
other — Is this a curse upon woman? — Indian women do not suffer
in labor — Dr. Dewees — Prof. Huxley — Remarkable cases of par-
turition without pain — Author's professional experience— Anecdote
of Dr. Oliver Wendell Holmes — Proofs of science — Lay aside
prejudice. 17-24
CHAPTER n.
CONCEPTION — FETAL DEVELOPMENT.
The reproductive apparatus — ^The ovaries — ^The oviducts — ^The uterus
— ^The vagina — Mammary glands — Conception — Law of concep-
tion — Development of the embryo — The placenta — Fetal circula-
tion — Blue baby — Duration of pregnancy — Growth of the embryo
—Eight months baby 25-36
CHAPTER HL
PREGNANCY— SIGNS AND SYMPTOMS.
Four physical signs — Cessation of menses — ^Increase of size — Quicken-
ing— Fetal heart-beat — Positive indication of pregnancy — Patho-
logical symptoms — Physicians offer no relief — A woman's sad
experience. , , 37-41
CHAPTER IV.
DISEASES OF PREGNANCY— INDIGESTION, NAUSEA, ETC.
Indigestion a common ailment — Starch and fats the prime cause oi
(K.)
2i CONTENTS.
dyspepsia—Children's food is jriven to the pigs — Morning sick*
ness — Is it a natural symptom? — Biliousness, what is it? — Enemas,
their uses — Do not force the appetite — ^Tradition's teachings^
Will the fetus starve? ^ •4*-50
CHAPTER V.
DISEASES OF PREGNANCY — CONSTIPATION.
Most women suffer from constipation — Causes — Hoi bread— White
flour — Baking powders — Errors in dress — Cathartic drugs — Treat-
ment — Wally and the Lockport entire wheat bread — Wheatlet—
Cracked or rolled wheat — How Charlie was cured — Feast on
fruits — Foods, laxative and constipating — Special exercises—
Goiag without supper , tftit** ••51-73
CHAPTER VI.
DISEASES OF PREGNANCY— HEADACHE, NEURALGIA, HEARTBURN.
Headache — Tea and sick headache— Headache can be cured — ^Treat-
ment — Heartburn — Flatulence — Hemorrhoids — Greedy appetite-
Loss of appetite — Longings — Diarrhea — Neuralgia — Case from
practice — Burning feet — Cramps — Swelling of extremities — Sleep-
lessness — Leucorrhea — Pruritus , , , .74-89
CHAPTER VIL
HYGIENE OF PREGNANCY— DRESS.
Congenial surroundings — Overtaxed mothers — An old lady's story — ■
An every-day experience — Lucrative work — An author's interest-
ing testimony — Prophecy for the future — Dress and fashion —
Common sense shoes — Can ladies stand in street cars? — Union un-
der-garments — The chemiloon — The princess garment — Bates
waist — The divided skirt — Equestrian tights — Dress and freedom
for women — Dress in pregnancy — What corset can be worn —
Fashion in deformity 90-IIO
CHAPTER Vni.
HYGIENE IN PREGNANCY — BATHING.
The water cure mania — The "ounce of prevention" — "A coat of mail**
— The sitz-bath the very best bath for a pregnant woman — Fo-
mentations — Save doctors' visits^— Hot water bottles — Cold com-
CONTENTS. x!
press— Foot and leg bath— The Turkish bath— Thennal bath at
home — Queen of baths 111-123
CHAPTER IX.
HYGIENE IN PREGNANCY— DIET.
Avoid fats and sweets — ^The chemist's theory — Proper food prevents
pain in childbirth — Mrs. Rowbotham's experience — Marvelously
easy labor and rapid recovery — Interesting testimony from the
wife of a Michigan judge — Mrs. could get no doctor, and
child bom without pain! — She believes pain in childbirth unneces-
sary — Extraordinary experience! — Scientific theory accidentally
proved — A boon to every woman — Bill of fare for every day in the
week — Analysis of food ,*,,,,., ,124-137
CHAPTER X.
HYGIENE IN PREGNANCY— EXERCISE.
Motion a law of nature — Nest building — Home labor delights the
heart — Contact with the earth a "cure-all" — Waist breathings
Educate the muscles — Massage — Muscle beater — Military position
— Exercises in pregnancy — Climbing stairs during gestation — Rules
for climbing stairs and hills — Delsarte , .. . , ,138-149
CHAPTER XI.
CHASTITY IN THE MARRIAGE RELATION,
Rights of children — Popular theories— Social evil — Who are the pros-
titutes? — Touching experience — Lessons for husbands — Theory of
continence — A New Testament Lesson — Continence in preg.
nancy — Its influence upon pain at parturition — Influence upon
offspring — Men reverence the maternal in woman — Parent-
hood and progress — Motherhood, central fact in human
life , 150-162
CHAPTER Xn.
VENTILATION — REST.
A pregnant woman breathes for two — Open fire places in sleeping
rooms — Charcoal pit easily constructed — Fresh air in bedrooms
— Drafts — Cold air not pure air — The nose a sentinel — Unslaked
xii CONTENTS.
lime and charcoal— Interesting experiments — A dally siesta
needed — How one mother slept — Recapitulation — Mrs. Stanton's
experience — ^A girl is as good as a boy 163-173
CHAPTER XIII.
PARTURITION.
What are labor pains? — Stages of labor — Bag of waters — Necessary
preparations — Directions for making the bed — Management dur-
ing the first stage — Meddlesome midwifery — Cutting the cord — A
new heresy — No child should be washed as soon as it is bom —
Delivery of the after-birth — Should the bandage be applied? —
Castor oil — Rest, the best remedy 174-182
CHAPTER XIV.
DYSTOCIA.
Difficult labor — Caustic treatment a frequent cause — Hot sitz-bath
overcomes rigidity — A very remarkable case — Notes from practice
— Ergot and cohosh — Their poisonous effects — Instruments — Temp-
tation of physicians — Women can make instruments known in
tradition only , 183-18^
CHAPTER XV.
POST PARTUM DISEASES.
Daily bath — Compress — Sitz-bath — Very best food — Cases in Home of
the Friendless — No need of milk fever — Abcess of the breast —
Excoriated nipples — Insufficient milk — Drink new or hot milk —
Do not use ale or beer — Excessive flow of milk — After-pains —
The lochia — Hemorrhage — Childbed fever — ^Causes to be avoided
—Dr. Playfair's opinion— Treatment must be prompt. . . . 190-203
CHAPTER XVI.
INFANTS, THEIR CARE AT BIRTH AND DURING EARLY INFANCY.
A new being — Need of rest — An oil bath — Dressing the navel — Cloth-
ing — Useful suggestions — Habits of cleanliness can be secured—
— Nursing — Mother's milk the natural food — Best artificial food —
Causes of mortality in hand-fed children — Artificial human milk —
Analysis of milk — Care of the bottle — Time of weaning — Meat-fed
children . , 204-216
CONTENTS. xui
CHAPTER XVIL
DISEASES OF INFANTS.
Aphtha — Excoriation — Colic — Mother's friend— Soothing syrup — Con«
stipation — Diarrhea— Dysentery — Summer complaint — Inflamma-
tion of the bowels — ^Dentition — Lancing the gums — Starchy food
Remedies., • •.....•. ..•••t • 217-231
CHAPTER XVIIL
DISEASES OF INFANTS— CONTINUED.
Worms — Incontinence of urine — Retention of urine — Croup, the moth-
er's terror — True and false croup^A sovereign remedy— Diph-
theria — Popular remedies — Contagious diseases — Scarlet fever-
Tabular differences between scarlet fever and measles— Whooping
cough — Convulsions— Practical suggestions. ,, . , 232-243
CHAPTER XIX.
ABORTION.
Prevention— Treatment— Feticide — Viability of the embryo^ Two
vcrongs cannot make one right — Maternal instinct inherent — In-
centives to produce abortion — Unwelcome children 243-25 1
CHAPTER XX
MENSTRUATION.
Definition — Cause — Should be devoid of suffering— Disorders— Sup-
pression — Painful menstruation — Errors in dress — Lack of exercise
— Romping girls — ^Wrong diet — Heat, a sovereign remedy — Re-
markable cases— Flowing, Remedies , 252-262
CHAPTER XXL
DISEASES OF WOMEN.
Nine-tenths of American women have these maladies— Common-sense
hints — Inflammation — Mental sufferings — A cause of insanity—
Ulceration — Induration — Errors in dress and diet — Sitz-bath—
Thermal bath — Injections — Valuable exercises — Caustic treatment
— Acids and probes — Sufferings induced and prolonged — Physiciang
taking the back track— Reforms effected by the protest of the
people— Leucorrhea— Displacements — Hysteria , , ,263-275
xiv CONTENTS.
CHAPTER XXn.
CHANGE OF LIFE.
A scape-goat of phyticiaQ&— What is the meno-pause?— Irxegolarity—
Hot flashes — Profuse perspiration — Hemcnrrhage — Mental sjrmp-
toms— Nature creates no patbc^ogical conditions— Therapeutic
measures— Natnral remedies— Simple habits, *»,*«,„,. ,276-285
CHAPTER XXm.
DIETETICS.
Nearly two hundred recipes, including: Drinks for the sick— Gruels-
Jellies — Bread — Gems — Toast— Puddings— Eggs — Oysters and
miscellaneous dishes — ^The outgrowth of experience on a scientific
basis — Healthy food made palatable, suiting the fastidious and
capricious taste of the invalid— Dainty dishes for the sick. .286-320
A FAMILIAR LETTER.
TO THE READER FROM THE AUTHOR.
Regulating sex — Various theories — Limiting offspring — Maternal in-
stinct sovereign in women — Law of ovulation — Law of continence
— Other methods — Effects of tobacco— Testimonials— Reasons of
failure— "Mind cure" a reality , 321-350
Author's special request *...., 351
Glossary 351
Index 357
Index OF Dietetics 364
Illustrations and explanation of plates — Stt Pocket.
TOKOLOGY.
CHAPTER I.
PAINLESS CHILDBIRTH.
" I know of no country, no tribe, no class, where
childbirth is attended with so much pain and trouble
as in this country." Thus replied a traveler who had
been many years in foreign lands, upon being inter-
rogated as to the comparative sufferings of savage
and civilized women. His occupation and sympa-
thies had brought him into close relationship with all
classes of people, and therefore fitted him for an intel-
ligent and discriminating judgment in this matter.
Neither in India, Hindostan, China, Japan, th
South Sea Islands, South America, nor indeed in any
country do women suffer in both pregnancy and par-
turition as they do in this. Possibly among the
higher classes in Europe there may be equal suffer-
ing; but the peasantry everywhere is comparatively
exempt.
The usual testimony of missionaries and travelers
is that the squaws of our own Indian tribes experi-
ence almost no suffering in childbirth, and the func-
tion scarcely interferes with the habits, pleasures or
duties of life. I have myself seen a squaw of the
Ottawa tribe carrying her pappoose upon her back,
.,.J[^ • , TESTIMONY OF MISSIONARIES.
.'"strapped to a board, when it was only twenty-four
hours old.
Mrs. Armstrong, one of the early missionaries in
the Sandwich Islands, says: "With native women
the labor was not long nor severe; the mother, instead
of remaining in bed, arose, bathed in cold water,
walked and ate as usual."
Dr. Storer says: "There is probably no suffering
ever experienced which will compare, in proportion
to its extent in time, with the throes of parturition."
Dr. Meigs says: "Men can not suffer the same pain
as women. What do you call the pains of parturi-
tion.^ There is no name for them but agony T
It is too true that women go down to death in giving
birth to children. Thousands of women believe that
this pain is natural and that for it there can be no al-
leviation. "In sorrow shalt thou bring forth chil-
dren " is thought to be a curse that applies to all women
of all time.
If this pain and travail is a natural accompaniment
of physiological functions — if it is a curse upon women,
then why are the rich, the enlightened and more
favored daughters of earth greater sufferers than the
peasantry, the savage, the barbarian, and those who
we call heathen.? Is it not possible, by research and
comparison, to learn the natural and true mode of
life, so that motherhood may, among enlightened
people, be relieved from this burden of suffering.?
May it not prove that our traditions and teachings
upon this subject have been altogether erroneous?
American women in education and enlightenment,
in freedom and progress, are the peers of the best and
noblest of their sex. From individual, social and na-
DR. GAILLARD THOMAS. I9
tional interests, they ought to be conversant with all
that pertains to this subject, so closely allied to the
interests of the race.
We find in women of superior education and
marked intelligence an exaggerated development of
the emotional nature, and a corresponding deteriora-
tion of physical powers. Weakness, debility, and
suffering is the common lot of most of them. Not
one in a hundred has health and strength to pursue
any chosen study, or to follow any lucrative occupa-
tion, and what is vastly worse, most are unfitted for
the duties and perils of maternity.
Dr. Gaillard Thomas says: "Neither appreciation
of, nor desire for, physical excellence sufficiently ex-
ists among refined women of our day. Our young
women are too willing to be delicate, fragile and in-
capable of endurance. They dread above all things
the glow and hue of health, the rotundity and beauty
of muscularity, the comely shapes which the great
masters gave to the Venus de Medici and Venus de
Milo. All these attributes are viewed as coarse and
unladylike, and she is regarded as most to be envied
whose complexion wears the livery of disease, whose
muscular development is beyond the suspicion of
embonpoint, and whose waist can almost be spanned
by her own hands.
"As a result, how often do we see our matrons
dreading the process of child-bearing, as if it were an
abnormal and destructive one ; fatigued and exhausted
by a short walk, or ordinary household cares; choos-
ing houses with special reference to freedom from
one extra flight of stairs, and commonly debarred the
one great maternal privilege of nourishing their own
20 INTERESTING CASES.
offspring. These are they who furnish employment
for the gynecologist, and who fill our homes with in-
valids and sufferers."
Understanding and following physiological laws,
pregnancy ought to be as free from pathological symp-
toms, and parturition as void of suffering with Amer-
ican women as with any on earth, or even with the
lower animals.
Dr. Dewees says: ^^Pain in childbirth is a morbid
symptom; it is a perversion of nature caused by modes
of living not consistent with the most healthy condi-
tion of the system, and a regimen which would insure
a completely healthy condition might be counted on
with certainty to do away with such pain."
The great English scientist, Professor Huxley, says:
"We are indeed, fully prepared to believe that the
bearing of children may and ought to become as free
from danger and long debility to the civilized woman
as it is to the savage."
The following paragraphs from one of the essays
in Dr. Montgomery's classical work on Pregnancy,
give practical details of cases in illustration of the
belief in painless parturition.
" In a letter to me Dr. Douglas states that he was
called about 6 A. M., Sept. 26, 1828, to attend a Mrs.
D., residing on Eccles St.
"On his arrival he found the house in the utmost
confusion, and was told that the child had been born
before the messenger was dispatched for the doctor.
From the lady herself he learned that, about half an
hour previously, she had been awakened from a
natural sleep by the alarm of a daughter about five
years old, who slept with her.
author's observation. 21
" This alarm was occasioned by the little girl feeling
the movements, and hearing the cries of an infant in
bed. To the mother's great surprise she had brought
forth her child without any consciousness of the fact.
"A lady of great respectability, the wife of a peer
of the realm, was actually delivered once in her sleep;
she immediately awakened her husband, being
alarmed to find one more in bed than there was
before.
" I have elsewhere mentioned the case of a patient of
mine who bore eight children without ever having
labor pains. Her deliveries were so sudden and void
of sensible effect that in more than one instance they
took place under most awkward circumstances, but
without any suffering."
Dr. J. King, in his work on Obstetrics, speaks of
attending cases where there was no sensation of pain.
He found that by placing the hand upon the abdo-
men, the muscular contractions were distinctly felt,
and examination proved the progress of labor, while,
excepting a suppressed breath, the patient experi-
enced no change from the ordinary condition.
Some very marked cases have come to my own
knowledge proving the possibility of painless labor.
I attended a neighbor of mine in four different confine-
ments. I never was able to reach her before the
birth of the child, although I lived only across the
street, and according to her injunctions, always kept
my shoes " laced up." She sent for me, too, at the
first indication of labor. There was always one pro-
longed effort and the child was expelled. The heads
of her children were temporarily distorted, showing
pliabilit V of the osseous structure.
92 PAINLESS CHILDBIRTH POSSIBLE.
Another lady patron had two children without a
particle of pain. With the first she was alone with
her nurse. During the evening she remarked that
she felt weary and believed that she would lie down.
She had been on the bed no more than twenty min-
utes when she called to her nurse, saying: " How
strangely I feel! I wish you would see what is the
matter," when to their astonishment the child was
already born.
Two years later I was summoned to the same lady
about ten at night. The membranes were ruptured,
but no other visible indication of labor. Investiga-
tion revealed dilatation of the cervix and although
she soon fell into a quiet slumber, I noticed regular
and distinct contractions. The child was born about
two in the morning without any sensation of pain. I
have no doubt that in her previous confinement the
contractions went on the same, and if she had been
one to mark her symptoms closely, she would have
felt them as one feels muscular contractions in the
performance of other natural functions.
The cases that have been cited, so far as is known,
were persons in excellent health, and some were per-
sons of exceptionally fine and strong constitutions.
Dr. Holbrook in his "Parturition without Pain,"
says: "Those women of savage nations who bear
children without pain live much in the open air, take
much exercise, and are physically active and healthy
to a degree greatly beyond their more civilized sisters.
These instances tend directly to prove that parturi-
tion is likely to be painless in proportion as the
mother is physically perfect and in a sound condi-
tion cf health. They certainly tend even more
ANECDOTE OF DR. HOLMES. 2$
strongly to prove that pain is not an absolute neces-
sity attendant on parturition.
"The course of modern scientific investigation,
moreover, has gone far to justify a belief that this
terrific burden upon humanity can be almost entirely
removed, and that the pain can be as completely
done away with as the danger and disfigurement
from small-pox. At the same time, this immeasu-
rable benefit to humanity cannot be obtained without
proper use of means, and the continuance of such use
for a considerable period.
"The doctrine of the ablest thinkers on the subject
will be found to agree in this: That it is the previous
life of the mother — the whole of ity from her birth to
the birth of the child — which almost entirely deter-
mines what her danger, her difficulty, and her pain
during childbirth shall be. Her easy or difficult
labor, in fact, is almost entirely her own work. Her
conduct during gestation, it is true, is more immedi-
ately influential in the result than remoter periods,
and bears more greatly upon the future life of her
offspring than even upon herself."
Dr. Oliver Wendell Holmes once said that he
believed that any disease, no matter how virulent,
how malignant or how deep-seated, whether it was
cancer, consumption or cholera, any disease could be
cured if the physician was called in time. But with
his wonted humor he added: "There are cases in
which the physician should be called at least two
hundred years in advance."
With Dr. Holmes, I believe it will take many years
to eradicate diseased conditions which are the heritage
of this generation, and thus to produce men and women
24 PROOFS OF SCIENCE.
of physical perfection. Science has proven, how-
ever, that any woman possessing sufficient vitality to
make procreation possible, can do much, even during
pregnancy, to alleviate the sufferings of that period,
as well as the final throes of travail. Pain and suffer-
ing have so long been the customary attendant upon
the maternal functions, that many are slow to believe
they can ever be alleviated. Painless childbirth is
thought to be an impossibility. The reader is begged
to lay aside all previous prejudices, and it is believed
that when this volume has been thoroughly studied
he will be convinced that women in bearing offspring
should furnish no exception to the laws of nature,
and that pregnancy and parturition may and ^«^/?/ to
be devoid of suffering.
In Tokology, technical terms have been avoided as much as possi-
ble. For the few used the reader will find helpful hints in the Glos-
sary, page 354. If possible, the few remedies prescribed in Tokology
should be procured at a Homoeopathic Pharmacy, or of a Homoeo-
pathic Physician. They are, however, sometimes found already pre-
pared in a drug store.
CHAPTER II.
CONCEPTION — FETAL DEVELOPMENT.
The REPRODUCTIVE APPARATUS of woman con-
sists essentially of ovaries, oviducts, uterus, vagina
. and mammary glands.
The ovaries (Plates II and VI) are two almond-
shaped bodies, situated about two and one-half inches
distant on either side of the uterus. They are in-
closed in the broad ligaments and suspended by a
thread-like cord from the womb, also attached to the
outer extremities of the oviducts. They consist of a
stroma in which vesicles are imbedded. It is within
these vesicles that the ova, or eggs, are found. Every
four weeks, during the child-bearing period an ovum
matures, and bursting through the vesicle, as well as
the surrounding membrane of the ovary, is conveyed
to the womb by the oviduct.
While not the largest, the ovary is the most im-
portant of the generative organs of woman. Upon
these apparantly insignificant structures depends the
creative power giving the grand office of mother-
hood, a power akin to the divine. Maternity! the
holiest shrine of human life, to which poets do hom-
age, and true men bow in reverence !
The ovaries contain the fructifying principle, and
also bestow on woman the characteristics of sex.
These mysterious bodies are the grand source of fem-
C35J
26 UTERUS AND OVIDUCTS.
Jnine attractions. Remove all other generative organs
and you do not change her in this regard — remove
the ovaries, and she becomes masculine not only in
character but appearance. Her figure changes, her
voice becomes coarse and of lower pitch, her throat
enlarges, and, in some instances, whiskers appear.
Any diseased condition, too, of the ovaries produces
great constitutional as well as emotional disturbances
The oviducts or fallopian tubes (Plates II
and VI) are minute cylindrical openings from the su-
perior and lateral portion of the uterus, about three
inches in length and terminating in fimbriated or fin-
ger-like extremities. The latter are minute muscular
bodies, which grasp the ovum as it bursts through
the membranes of the ovary, and convey it into the
oviduct on its way to the uterus. The ovum is less
than I-I20 of an inch in diameter, and the cavity of
the oviduct is so small that it would scarcely allow
the entrance of a hog's bristle.
The uterus (Plates II, III, IV, V and VII) is a
pear-shaped muscular organ situated in the inferior
portion of the pelvis, between the bladder and rectum.
It is less than three inches length and two inches
in width, and one in thickness. It is pear-shaped, the
cervix naturally pointing to the coccyx.
The canal or opening into the icterus through the
cervix is small, capable of admitting a probe | to |
of an inch in diameter. The walls are muscular, and
in the unimpregnated state about half an inch in
thickness. The cavity of the uterus is small 2r d con-
ical, having three openings, two at its upper portion
into the oviducts, and one into the vagina. 1 ne latter
is called the Os titeri or mouth of the womb. The
UTERINE SUPPORTS. 2J
apper broad portion is called the fundus. It weighs
from one to two ounces. It is difficult to realize how
very diminutive this organ is in the virgin state, es-
pecially when we consider its power of distension
during pregnancy.
The external portion of the uterus is covered by
Xho. peritoneum, a serous membrane which is contin-
uous with the lining of the abdomen and covering of
all the viscera. The uterus is held in place by liga-
ments formed of folds of the peritoneum. The broad
ligament enveloping the oviduct and ovaries extends
to either side, and is firmly attached to the sides of
the pelvis. The round ligaments, formed from oblit-
erated bloodvessels of fetal life and peritoneal cov-
ering, pass from the upper portion of the womb to
the outside of the pelvic bone and terminate in mus-
cular and cellular tissue beneath the integument.
There are also folds of peritoneum between the womb
and bladder in the front, and the womb and rectum
in the back, that assist in holding it in position. It is
besides largely supported by the elasticity of the va-
gina and muscles of the perineum. So well sustained
is the uterus that only serious violations of physical
laws can cause deviations of position
The Vagina (Plates II and III) is simply the ex-
ternal outlet or passage from the uterus. It is longer
in back than in front, being from three to four inches
in front and from five to six inches in the posterior
portion. It is a cylindrical tube of firm elastic tissue,
capable of great distension. The neck of the uterus
dips into the upper part of the vagina about three-
fouths of an inch. The communication between
these organs is the cervical canal, which in health is
28 MAMMARY Ci LANDS — CONCEPTION.
found closed, admitting a probe with difificulty. The
uterus and vagina are not one and the same as many
suppose, yet communicate with each other. The va-
gina serves as a passage for the menstrual fluid, for
the fetus at birth, and for the reception of the male
organ in copulation, and in a state of health assists
the perineal muscles in sustaining the uterus.
The MAMMARY GLANDS or breasts (Plate XI) are
accessory to the generative system. They secrete
milk which supplies the child with nourishment after
birth. They are rounded and prominent, keepinp;
their form and position through life, if the surround •
ing muscles and tissues have not been weakened by
pressure of clothing.
Conception or impregnation takes place by the
union of the male sperm and female germ. Whether
this is accomplished in \\y^ a^^
on fruit freely ! Don't stint the supply to sauce dishes.
Use large saucers and not only once full but twice or
thrice full at every meal. Acid fruits are preferable.
They are the staple, and properly prepared, one
never tires of them. The acid of the fruit is largely
oxygen, and uniting with the carbon of other foodi
in this way assists in digestion.
66 FEAST ON FRUITS FREELY.
For constipation some of the dried fruits well
cooked are valuable. Of these peaches, plums,
prunes, apricots, etc., that are rich in hydrocyanic
acid, are preferable. Get the best, stew several hours.
Never prepare a meal without it. Do not say it is
expensive, and you cannot afford it. Take half the
money you put in meat and lard, and purchase fruit.
You will get interest and principal returned in
health for yourself, in rosy, buoyant children, and
noticeable absence of doctors' fees.
Most of the garden vegetables are also valuable.
Rhubarb, onions, tomatoes, asparagus, green peas,
squash, cauliflower, green corn, etc, etc., are good,
and should be well cooked without butter. The fruits
and vegetables supply water, laxative in its effects
upon the mucous surfaces. They increase the resid-
ual matter of the excrement, and supply stimuli for
peristaltic action.
Avoid strong tea, especially if steeped a long time.
Tannic acid is developed, giving an astringent effect.
Coffee, especially the higher grades, in the occasional
use, stimulates the bowels to action, but the habit of
taking strong coffee gives the secondary effect, and
torpidity is the result.
It may be a wise provision of nature that the
poorer and cheaper the coffee, the less deleterious is
its character. Java and Mocha may be really poison-
ous to an individual, while Rio is quite inoffensive.
Most of the adulterations of coffee are harmless. One
"feasting on fruits freely" will not feel the need of
any drink at meals, and in total abstinence great gain
will be made in overcoming symptoms of indigestion.
TABLE OF FOODS.
67
LAXATIVE.
Rolled and cracked wheat.
Bread, gems, biscuit, griddle
cakes, crackers and mush
from flour of the entire wheat,
and graham flour.
Granula.
Bran gruel and jelly.
Fruit puddings.
Fruit pies.
All fresh acid fruits, includ-
ing tropical fruits, like banan-
as, oranges, lemons, etc.
Dried figs.
French prunes and prunel-
las, eaten raw.
Stewed dried fruits, con-
taining hydrocyanic acid, of
which peaches, plums and
prunes are the best.
New Orleans asses.
Rhubarb.
Onions.
Celery.
Tomatoes.
Cabbage, raw.
Com.
Squash.
Cauliflower.
Green peas.
Spinach.
Beets, etc
Liver.
Oysters.
Wild game.
CONSTIPATING
Hot bread.
White bread.
White crackerSc
Black pepper and spices.
Pastry made of white flour
and lard.
Bread, rolls, dumplings,
etc., made with baking pow-
ders.
Cake.
All custard puddings.
Salted meats.
Salted fish.
Dried meats.
Dried fish.
Smoked meats.
Poultry.
Cheese.
Chocolate.
Cocoa.
Boiled milk.
Tea.
Coffee.
Coffee made from wheat,
com, barley, toast, etc.
Beans (dried).
Fbtatoes.
Farina*
Sago.
Stare
Tapioca.
Rice.
Raspberries.
Blackberries.
Lean fresh meats, fresh fish, eggs, raw milk, oat-
meal, barley, buckwheat, corn meal, and sweet pota-
toes have no marked action either way, unless in
exceptional cases.
68 APPROPRIATE EXERCISE.
Appropriate and sufficient exercise is next
in importance to having proper food, in overcoming
constipation. General and habitual exercise is
essential to promote good circulation, a healthy
nervous tone, complete respiration, and also power
and elasticity of the muscles. The stomach, liver
and indeed all the alimentary tract require also local
exercise in order that a healthy standard may be
gained and maintained.
The worm-like or peristaltic action of the intestines
is produced by the contraction of the muscular coat.
It is by this action that the contents of the canal are
carried forward. Is it not plain that if exercise can
develop the muscles of the arm or leg it can give
tone and power to //z^^i? muscles as well.? Dr. Taylor,
in "Health by Exercise," says: "It is a curious and
most interesting fact that children and young ani-
mals, whose desire for motion is inherent, are inclined
chiefly to those exercises and those positions which
necessarily affect the abdominal contents.
"It is in such exercises as climbing, rollings crawl-
ing,jtimpi?tg d^nd playijig genev3L\\y that these contents
are most disturbed. We are convinced that the
means prescribed by nature will secure healthful de-
velopment and power in these most essential parts of
the body. As if to insure these healthful effects,
nature has ordained that by respiration, as an efficient
and constant means, these motions shall be secured
to the alimentary canal. The abdominal contents
may be considered as being located between two
great muscular organs, the diaphragm and abdominal
walls. These muscles act conjointly and simuliatie'
ously and upon ail the included parts, causing them
LONGEVITY AND LUNG POWER. 69
to play incessantly upon each, and subjecting them
to a constant and gentle pressure."
Deep breathing, using the diaphragm and abdomi-
nal muscles, of which the majority of women have no
practical knowledge, gives the most efficient exercise
to the digestive tract. The A, B, C, of health lessons
is in deep natural respiration. The lungs must be
filled to the bottom, and the involuntary muscles of
breathing brought into action. The most eminent
vocal teacher of this country asserts that in breath-
ing "the main action should be at the waist and
below the waist." Animals and children have this
natural breathing. Men and women lose it from lack
of exercise, and constrictions of dress. Health,
strength, longevity and power of endurance depend
mainly upon lung capacity.
For constipation, those exercises must be taken
that develop the diaphragm and other respiratory
muscles, that strengthen the muscles of the abdomen
and trunk as well as the muscular tissue of the intes-
tines themselves.
SPECIAL EXERCISES FOR CONSTIPATION.
1. Lying upon the back, with abdomen relaxed,
have bowels thoroughly kneaded: make rapid, gentle
movements with balls of the fingers and palm of the
hands, not the knuckles.
2. Same position, move diaphragm up and down
without breathing. This requires a little experience
and can be aided at first by external pressure of the
hand, following the motion. This is one of the most
desirable for the object required, and must not be
TO EXERCISES FOR CONSTIPATION.
abandoned because of a few failures. The diaphragm
can be taught to obey the will.
3. Reclining on the back on a spring bed; flex the
knees, inflate the lungs; move hips up and down
with the springs twenty or thirty times. This can be
performed by even quite a weak person, and is bene-
ficial to the strongest. Brings into action moderately
a great variety of muscles.
4. Flex the knees and elevate the hips, resting the
body on shoulders and feet. Move slowly up and
down ten times. Hold to count ten, and then rest to
count the same. Lungs with this had better be in-
flated. No exercise is more valuable for developing
deep breathing. Sick and well would be benefited
by taking this execise morning and night.
5. Stand with toes at angle of 45**, knees together,
hands crossed upon the back. Bend the knees. The
body is kept perpendicular and slowly descends until
sitting upon the heels. Then slowly straightened,
keeping trunk in same position. Count four with
each movement, and from four to ten with the rest.
This is a severe exercise, and needs to be taken cau-
tiously at first by the invalid. There is no better,
however, for torpid bowels.
6. Stand as before. Palms of hands placed over
lower ribs, fingers forward. Inhale through the nos-
trils and expand the waist as if to burst the belt.
Expel the breath slowly and assist it by pressing
with the palms against the ribs.
7. Same position; inhale through the nostrils:
retain, to count twenty; expel through the mouth
as whispering the syllable Hoo! to a person forty
feet away.
EXERCISES FOR CONSTIPATION. /I
8. Sit on the floor; limbs horizontal and parallel;
lungs inflated; hands joined over the head; move
backward and forward slowly as far as possible; rest;
«ame position, move sideways.
9. Horizontal position on back; hands clasped
over the head; raise both feet and head at same time
making the body assume a curved shape; hold to
count ten; repeat this only five or six times at first.
This is a powerful exercise, affecting the abdominal
iriscera and general circulation.
10. Lie in the horizontal position; hands clasped
over the head; the head and heels only resting on
Supports, as two stools, while the body is quite free;
hold in this position from five to ten minutes, accord-
ing to strength, practicing waist breathing; at first
one might place the stools nearer together.
11. Kneel with one leg; place the other forward
with the foot firm upon the floor; arms parallel,
stretched upward to the side of the head; move
backward and forward slowly, while counting four
to each movement, and for rest; repeat three or foui'
times, and change to the other knee. This is a good
exercise for hips, groin and lower abdomen.
12. Upon both knees wide apart, hands on hips,
fingers forward. Move quickly from right to left,
and back as far as possible. This is a good exercise
for liver, spleen and muscles of the side.
Nos, 5, 10, II and 12 should not be attempted by a
weak person until the others have been practiced
at least a month, and then begin with caution. All
these exercises should be taken in a loose wrapper.
There must be no restraint upon any part of the
body. One walking or working need not be de-
72 SIMPLE CURATIVE MEASURES.
terred from taking them. They bring into action
unused muscles, and consequently rest those that
have been overworked. I knew a lady who did
much of the heavy labor of a large greenhouse. She
never retired without performing gymnastics similar
to the above. She claimed that they rested her by
the derivative effect, and the sleep that followed was
more satisfactory.
Women cannot expect to successfully and per-
manently overcome constipation, if the organs are
in any way restricted by dress. Nature's laws are
inexorable, and the penalty of violation must be
paid. See Chap. VII.
Do not resort to drugs, eve?i for temporary relief.
Almost all aperient medicines act through the nerv-
ous system, stimulating the secretions to increased
flow. All stimulation of the nervous system is fol-
lowed by a corresponding or increased depression.
In consequence the torpor of the bowels is worse
after a few days, instead of better. If people would
only note real results, instead of seejumg ones, very
little medicine would be taken, at least such as has
only palliating effects.
In constipation, until permanent benefits can be
obtained by the means proposed, if it is necessary to
have temporary relief, resort to enemas in preference
to drugs. A small quantity of tepid water will
usually remove the contents of the rectum. If a
thorough evacuation is desired, follow directions on
page 48.
Retaining a pint of warm water over night has
proved beneficial in many cases. Very obstinate im-
paction in the rectum can be relieved by injecting
PERSISTENCE ESSENTIAL. 73
from one to two ouncet of Unseed oil in the rectum,
and retaining it over night. Use a rubber piston
child's syringe for this purpose.
Making one meal of raw grains often proves in-
valuable in constipation. Many persons are adopt-
ing for diet, what they call Edenic food. They live
entirely upon uncooked food, claiming that it gives
natural nutriment, and overcomes morbific condi-
tions. For many years I have occasionally recom-
mended the use of raw grains, rolled oats or wheat,
for constipation, nervousness, sleeplessness, etc. It
serves its purpose best by being eaten dry, but may
be taken with honey, fruit juice or milk.
Going entirely without supper, or adopting the
tivo meal system has proved beneficial in obstinate
cases where all other means have failed. The fre-
quency and time of eating is a great matter of habit.
By constant feeding, one gets himself to crave food
five or six times a day, while the system can be sat-
isfactorily nourished upon one meal a day. Brain
workers especially, will find great advantage in tax-
ing the alimentary processes less frequently. On de-
ciding to do without supper, at the usual meal time a
craving for food can be satisfied by taking a cup of
hot water, hot lemonade, or some fruit juice.
Finally, let me urge thoroiighness and persistence in
the means laid down to overcome torpidity of the
bowels. Do not expect a miracle, but know that by
giving proper conditions, normal action will surely
be restored, consequently great advantages gained in
every direction. Once the functions of the bowels
tecome perfectly normal, all complaints of the sys-
tem have a fair chance to cure themselves.
CHAPTER VI.
DISEASES OF PREGNANCY.
Headache — Neuralgia — Heartburtty etc.
Headache in pregnancy is caused either by uter-
ine irritation, by derangement in digestion, or by
both combined.
If caused by uterine irritation, there will be burn-
ing pain in the top of the head or at the base of the
brain, accompanied by great soreness, which the
patient describes as a sore pain. This pain, too, is
constant, and likely to affect both vision and memory.
It usually increases toward evening, and is relieved
by lying down.
For this, take warm sitz baths daily, apply hot fo-
mentations to back of the head, and keep in a reclin-
ing position as much as possible. (See Chap. XXL)
Sick headache is a severe pain in the forehead
and through the temples, accompanied by nausea
and vomiting, often, too, by coldness of the extrem-
ities and great prostration. The attacks are irregular
in frequency and duration. The causes are indiges-
tion, biliousness, constipation, fatigue, anxiety, etc.
One under ordinary circumstances ought to be
ashamed to have sick headache. A little common sense
in the methods of living will do away with the causes.
Tea-drinking as a habit has much to do in pro-
(74i
TEA AND SICK HEADACHE. 7$
ducing headaches. Tea is stimulating. One ever so
weary, after drinking a cup of tea, feels as £-0od as
new, is invigorated, hopeful, chatty, and entertaining.
The social cup of tea! Has it really restored wasted
tissues.' Is it a genuine nerve feeder.? Or does it
stimulate native forces to greater action.? Is it like
a whip to the fagged horse, spurring it on to more
toil.? Very little tea is appropriated to build up
worn-out tissues. It gives false strength. In the
reaction headache ensues. It is the penalty that
follows over-wrought vitality.
Dr. Gregg's article in the Homeopathic Quarterly on
tea as a cause of sick headache is worthy of the at-
tention of those who suffer with this common malady.
The doctor alleges that this beverage is the cause of
this disease more than all other causes put together,
and gives a number of instances where, after leaving
off its use, persons who had previously been afflicted
were exempt from further attacks. One evidence the
doctor gives of the injurious effect of this agent is
the fact that tea-drinkers are liable to have headaches
if they omit its use at the regular times of taking it,
and that the pain ceases on again resuming the cups.
" This latter, with many other facts contained in
the article, has often been observed," says the doctor,
"not only on myself but on others, for I had in-
herited the disease from my mother. It had been the
plague of her life as well as my own We had both
been not excessive bnt regular tea-drinkers; and
although she lived to be over eighty years of age,
she was never exempt from an attack of greater or
less severity, for more than a few weeks at a time,
for a period of nearly or quite half a century.
76 DR. GREGG'S EXPERIENCE.
"Knowing this fact, and that from my earliest recol-
lection I had been similarly affected, I was content
when the pain returned, to relieve it with the appro-
priate remedies, with little hope or thought of ever
being able to eradicate it. Some twenty years ago
I had abandoned the use of coffee and green tea,
using only the black and Japan. Pork, pastry, spices,
acids and most kinds of raw fruits were sure, if in-
dulged in, to bring on an attack of my old trouble;
and this weakness of the stomach seemed to be grad-
ually on the increase, besides a train of nervous
symptoms, such as sleeplessness, palpitation of the
heart, unsteadiness of the hand when writing, etc.,
etc., giving me no little annoyance.
"After reading the article referred to, I concluded
some three months ago, to use no more tea, substitu-
ting in its stead hot water with a little milk. The
result for the first week or ten days was much as I
had anticipated, being, during the whole of that time,
scarcely ever free from headache. At length the pain
became lighter and when it did return, was of short
duration. My nervous symptoms grew less, palpi-
tation left entirely, my stomach became much
stronger. I can now eat with impunity many things
which for years had been sure to disagree. The
headache now very rarely returns, and never with
severity; besides, within the past two months my
weight was increased sixteen pounds."
For many years I was subject to sick headaches at
irregular intervals. They would come on from a
cold, from want of sleep, or under mental strain.
When I began to travel and lecture I gave up the
use of butter because I could not always get that
HEADACHE CAN BE CURED. 7/
which was good. Since that I have never had a
severe attack of headache. I have recommended
many others to deny themselves of butter and other
fats with good results, using honey, fruit juice or
milk instead.
With many, potatoes cause sick headaches, espe-
cially if mashed with a great deal of butter. They
become soggy, and cannot be penetrated by the
gastric juice. Some think that they should never
be eaten at the same meal with acid fruits.
The very worst sick headaches can be cured by
temperate living. A delicate lady was subject to
fearful attacks of sick headache, at least twice a
month. They would last from twenty-four to forty-
eight hours. Her sufferings were simply terrible.
She had dyspepsia, with grave uterine complications.
She was liable to die in one of these attacks, and
could not get well at home. By my advice she went
to a hygienic institute where she could get baths,
the best diet and proper attention.
After beginning treatment she never had a severe
headache. Every attack was warded off, and she
returned not only thoroughly cured, but a convert
to the belief that fruits and grains afford the best
diet for health and longevity. One has not always
the appliances or the determination (for long sickness
weakens the will) to carry out a settled and desirable
course of treatment at home. In such a case, a well
regulated hygienic institute should be sought.
For prevention of attacks, the treatment for bilious-
ness and constipation will be effectual. Rubbing,
spatting, brushing and combing the head often wards
off the pain. Large drafts of hot water, or hot
78 HEARTBURN.
lemonade, or salt and water may give relief. Put
hot applications to the feet and fomentations upon
the stomach. Also take a hot enema of three quarts
of water and two tablespoons of salt. The latter
seldom fails to ward off an attack if taken in time.
The following remedies have proved invaluable:
Cimicifuga, 2d. — Sore, aching pain at base of brain,
heat in top of head, boring pain in the eyeballs, ach-
ing in the limbs, restlessness. Six pellets every hour.
Ignatia, 2d. — Pain in forehead, nausea, fainting, de-
pression of spirits. Pain relieved by lying down.
Six pellets every two hours.
Sanguinaria, jd. — Sick headache, worse from mo-
tion, noise or light, pain in back of head and running
upward, dull, heavy pain in stomach. Six pellets
every half hour.
N71X Vom.y 2d trit. — Sick headache with vomiting,
pains intermittent, feet cold, congestion, with pale
face. Put one grain in six spoons of water, and take
a spoonful every half hour.
Puls.,jd. — Pain in top of head, sharp pains in back
and limbs. Six pellets every hour.
Gelseminum, 2d. — Pain in right side of head, run-
ning down the spine. One feels herself getting
blind, pain relieved by tipping head backward, recurs
periodically. Six pellets every half hour.
Heartburn is acidity of the stomach, caused by
improper food or a failure in digestion. Avoid
starchy foods, fats and meats. Avoid gravies. I
know a lady who always has extreme acidity after
partaking of chicken or turkey gravy, while nothing
else has a similar effect. To remedy heartburn, take
the meals entirely without drinking. The gastric
COLIC — HEMORRHOIDS. 79
juice that dissolves the food is not secreted until the
liquids have passed from the stomach by absorption.
Anything that lowers the tone of the stomach pre-
vents it having power to perform both of these func-
tions, consequently the food remains, to ferment and
sour. If acidity is present, the gastric juice can be
stimulated by eating a piece of burnt toast, or taking
pulverized charcoal. Some, understanding this, make
crackers containing charcoal. A few mouthfuls of
these after the meal will answer the purpose.
Avoid a variety at one meal. Choose such articles
as experience has proved to be best assimilated. Do
not take magnesia, lime, soda, or any other alkaline
for this trouble. They injure the mucous coat of the
stomach, and the difficulty is more likely to recur
another day. Drinking copiously of warm water
may be resorted to, if the burning is severe. This
will cause vomiting, and give relief. Abstain from
food until the fellowing day, and eat sparingly until
the stomach has recovered a healthy tone.
Flatulence and colic arise from a failure of
intestinal digestion. Many of the vegetables are
inclined to cause flatulence: beans, sweet potatoes,
and cabbage most frequently. Corn meal, oat meal,
and rolled wheat will produce flatulence, if not thor-
oughly cooked. All of these require more time in
preparation than is usually given. See chapter on
Dietetics for proper cooking of these.
To remedy flatulence, drink hot water warm
water enemas, or use the fomenter over the stomach.
Avoid such articles of food as cause the trouble.
Hemorrhoids or piles are often caused in preg-
nancy by inflammation of the rectum or pressure of
80 EXCESSIVE SALIVA.
the gravid uterus. Yet they are many times a local
indication of a constitutional disturbance, ctnd local
applications can give only temporary relief. The
most obstinate cases can be overcome in time by
correct living. The diet and exercises should be
similar to those for constipation.
Dr. Shew says: "There is nothing in the world
that will produce so great relief in piles as fasting.
If the attack is severe, live a whole day or even two
days, if necessary, upon pure, cold, soft water alone."
I would substitute hot water and hot lemonade, fol-
lowed for several days by liquid foods only. Oi
these bran gruel is the best. When there is some
internal heat, and even considerable inflammation,
tepid sitz-baths and cold compresses are of great
benefit. An enema of hot water relieves the pain in-
cident to hemorrhoids. For cases not of long stand-
ing, the following recipe will seldom fail to relieve:
3 Fl. Ex. Hamamelis, 3ij.
Linseed oil, ^ij-
Mix. — Apply externally two or three times a day,
or inject with a small syringe.
Excessive secretion of saliva is only another
indication of indigestion, and rarely troubles one
who lives plainly. Drinking hot water will relieve it.
Also holding in the mouth very hot or very cold
water, or pieces of ice, will give temporary relief.
It rarely fails to disappear under the fruit diet.
Eating a few almonds or a peach kernel after a meal
frequently produces desirable results. Indeed, these
are often valuable for indigestion.
Greedy appetite is more to be feared than loss
LOSS OF APPETITE. Si
of appetite. One is hungry at all times, complains
she can not get enough to eat. This is strong
evidence that there are morbid conditions. The sys-
tem is likely to take on excess of fat, and become
loaded with poisonous elements.
To fight an excessive appetite is the hardest battle
of the pregnant woman. If convinced herself that
over-eating is injurious, her friends are delighted to
see her €7ijoy her foody and furnish everything that
pleases her taste, and she eats in season and out of
season. She even "gets so hungry she can not
sleep," and in the night partakes of a pantry feast.
If the best conditions are sought for self and child,
this morbid appetite must be overcome.
Observe religiously a few rules:
On no account eat between meals.
Partake mostly of fruits and vegetables.
Keep away from the odor of food.
Take plenty of outdoor exercise.
When a sense of hunger comes on, drink hot water,
or hot lemonade. Have a strong will to conquer and
the victory will be won.
Loss OF APPETITE IS seldom sufficiently persistent
to occasion anxiety, unless accompanied by nausea,
or constipation. (See Chapter V.) Usually it is
nature's method of restoring normal conditions, and
if let alone completely will right itself. One, however,
is so imbued with the fear of not being nourished
that she forces herself to eat, and hence thwarts
nature. If there is no appetite^ eat nothings for the food
will not be digested. If in following this rule one
feels a faintness or a "goneness" at the stomach,
drink thin bran gruel hot, or a cup of wheat coffee.
82 LONGINGS — DIARRHEA.
Wait for the next meal — if still there is no appetite,
pursue the same course.
Longings. — Many women all through pregnancy
seem possessed to fill their systems with the vilest
trash. They must have chalk, slate pencils, magnesia,
starch, condiments, etc. Sometimes these longings
are from an actual want in the system; then, again,
morbid conditions crave what they feed upon. No
one lives a sufficiently natural life to depend upon
the instinct for food. Without knowing the case it
would be hard to say whether the fancy should be
gratified. Hundreds, however, can testify that by
adopting the diet laid down in this book, the system
is naturally fed, is fully nourished in all the elements,
and one seldom suffers from craving demands. If the
article desired is known to be injurious, like cloves,
pickles, alcoholic stimulants, magnesia, starch, etc.,
it is better to overcome the desire. The juice of a
lemon in hot water, a brisk walk, a ride, or a merry
chat with a friend will dissipate the fancy. Put the
mind on something above physical desires. Commit
to memory a poem, learn a song, paint a picture,
make a garment, or do a good, generous deed. If
possible, rise above appetite.
Diarrhea in pregnancy is not of frequent occur-
rence. Ordinarily, it is only an effort of nature to
correct abnormal conditions; in such cases it requires
no attention. If, however, it becomes persistent and
troublesome, it will, contrary to common prejudice,
usually yield to the use of acidulated drinks or the
fruit diet. It may be best for a few days to keep
quiet and avoid solid food. Enemas of hot water
are frequently beneficial.
NEURALGIA — NERVE FOOD. 83
The following remedies are indicated:
Arsenictim, jd. — Discharges light and copious with
great thirst. Six pellets every four hours.
Merc. Cor., 6th. — Frequent urging and straining,
severe pain. Discharges slight, greenish, or mixed
with mucous. Six pellets four times a day.
The symptoms of pregnancy treated thus far are
usually the result of some disturbance in the opera-
tions of alimentation. The few remaining to be
considered would scarcely ever occur, if the entire
system were rightly nourished. Still, not being im-
mediately the result of failure in the digestive act,
they merit special attention.
Neuralgia and neuralgic toothache are common
and distressing symptoms during gestation. The
child of the forest, the peasant girl of Europe and
the dusky cotton picker of the South probably have
no conception of a neuralgic pain.
Our cultured civilization incurs the infraction of so
many physical laws that it is difficult to find the
cause of any disease. Neuralgia is not unfrequently
the constant companion of the bilious, overfed, or
perhaps, I should say, the carbonaceously fed subject.
Too much fuel, and too little oxygen!
Lack of nerve food is another cause. The phos-
phates and other saline elements are insufficient. Also
exhausted and weakened nerves, making an effort to
recuperate, give the possessor great suffering. The
mother, who already has several children, wearied
and worried by their many wants, whose domestic
cares are a continual burden, who has no surcease
from the sexual relation, is the one likely to suffer
from neuralgia. Often the pregnant woman strains
6 -"^
84 A CASE FROM PRACTICE.
every nerve that her house be put and kept in order.
She spends anxious days and sleepless nights in weary
watching over a sick child or husband. Suffering
must surely follow. The tonics, stimulants and opiates
prescribed by most physicians cause worse symptoms
than the original trouble. Nature demands only rest.
The relief obtained by drugs is at too great a sacri-
fice of vital force. Nearly all that take opiates attest
that on the following day sufferings ensue from
nausea, headache, loss of appetite, constipation, etc.
In most cases hot applications will give sure relief.
Why is it, that simple measures are the last thought
of.-* Use the fomenter locally; if that is not sufficient,
give a full hot or thermal bath. (See Chap. VIII.)
Human magnetism is superior to all other agents
for neuralgia. Nearly every family has some mem-
ber that possesses the gift of healing by the "laying
on of hands." The spine and extremities should be
manipulated, and then the affected part. The patient
will fall into a restful sleep, awaken refreshed, if not
cured, and have no poisonous drugs to be eliminated
from the system.
Some years ago I was called late at night to a lady
who for days had suffered untold agony from facial
neuralgia. Her face was greatly swollen and the
pain was so intense that she had nearly lost her rea-
son. An eminent physician, under the popular
delusion that it was malaria, had prescribed quinine.
As she had protested against its internal administra-
tion, he ordered her bathed in an unction of quinine
and cosmoline. Each day finding the patient worse,
he increased the frequency of the quinine bath.
Upon my entering the room, she seized my hand
BURNING FEET — CRAMPS. 8$
with a vise-like grip and cried: "Doctor, give me
something, or I must die of this agony!"
I assured her that she should have help. Turning
to her husband, I said: "Bring me a wash-bowl
with hot water and ammonia in it. Put four bricks
in the furnace as soon as you can."
Quickly the whole surface was cleansed of the ob-
struction to the pores. The heated bricks were
wrapped in wet cloths and one placed each side of
her face. Friction was applied to the extremities,
and in less than half an hour after I entered the house
the anxious husband and friends were rejoiced to see
the patient enjoying a restful sleep. She made a
speedy recovery. There are few cases of neuralgia
that can not be relieved by this, or similar means.
"Will not the pain return.?" Perhaps, but not as
likely as where the nervous sensibility has been
benumbed with drugs.
If the mother has facial neuralgia or toothache,
and can not be spared from family cares to take the
needful bath and rest, or can not get magnetic treat-
ment, temporary relief can be obtained by bathing
the affected part in the tincture of aconite. This is
rarely followed by unpleasant results, but should be
used cautiously and only externally.
Burning feet are best relieved by bathing them
in very hot water. A sand bath, too, is excellent.
Have a box of moist sand, in which bury the feet
for thirty or forty minutes. In summer one will find
it very grateful to allow the bare feet to come in
contact with green grass or freshly turned earth.
Cramps in the limbs are occasioned by pressure
upon the cruraJ and sciatic nerves; are frequently the
86 SWELLING OF THE EXTREMITIES.
direct result of pressure from clothing. For tem-
porary relief lie flat upon the back, head and shoul-
ders low, and hips elevated. Apply hand friction to
the limbs and back. The only permanent relief is to
take the exercises that will expand the ribs and walls
of the abdomen, thus giving more room for fetal
house-keeping.
Swelling of the extremities is caused from
biliousness and sluggish circulation. Oftentimes the
venous circulation is so deficient that varicose veins
are the result. Sometimes these swell and form knots
and tumors of great size. I recall a patient who had
a varicose tumor as large as the doubled hand, situ-
ated upon the labia. These knotted veins give great
distress, and cause much anxiety. I have never
known of their annoying a person who had adopted
XhQ fruit diet and other hygienic measures.
Temporary relief can be obtained by bathing the
limbs in cold water, and putting on a roller bandage
made of strips of rubber. This should be from an
inch and a half to two inches wide. It must be put
on smoothly and equably. Begin at the toes, lap the
edges about half an inch, make reverses to prevent
creases, and extend above the swelled veins.
Pain in the side, either right or left, may be from
the same cause as cramps or pains in the limbs. Put
on hot fomentations and follow the directions for
cramps. These pains may extend to the abdomen,
and may be neuralgic in their character, or may
assume an intermittent form, producing what is called
false pains. They often simulate labor pains so
closely as to deceive patient and friends. To distin-
guish them, place the hand upon the abdomen during
SLEEPLESSNESS. 8/
the pain. If contraction of the uterus is felt, there is
true labor, but if there is no change in the walls, they
are false pains. Frequent warm sitz-baths will give
relief. The temperature should be about 95° Fr.
For rigidity of the integument of the abdo-
men, bathe in hot water, then rub in olive oil or
cosmoline. This symptom is not likely to be trouble-
some if the exercises recommended are being taken.
Insomnia is the result of reflex nervous action
from stomach or uterus. The causes must be re-
moved. Bathing feet and legs in cold water, or
taking a sitz-bath, temperature 90 degrees, followed
by thorough friction, will usually give sound, refresh-
ing sleep. A compress applied to the back of the
neck is good, especially if there is heat in the head.
Try changing from the customary bed to a lounge
or another apartment. Hand magnetism or the mag-
netic cap will afford relief to many. Tea and coifee
often produce wakefulness, and should be omitted.
In place of the evening meal, take a cup of hot
water or wheat coffee. When all other means are
without avail, this abstinence seldom fails to secure
sound, refreshing sleep, that is truly "Nature's sweet
restorer."
Avoid opiates. Mother and child suffer less from
insomnia itself than from the effects of drugs that
produce sleep by their anodyne effects. By these the
processes of nature are disturbed and all the opera-
tions of the body deranged. After going to bed sip
slowly a cup of hot water and milk, equal parts.
This is especially desirable where there is nervous
irritability and weak digestion.
For many years I was subject to insomnia. I found
88 LEUCORRHEA.
temporary benefit from looking steadily at one
object, keeping the eyes wide open. It is better to
have the object above and back of the head, so that
the eye is forced to roll backward and upward.
Keep the eyes open as long as possible. When at
last they close, still in imagination look at the object,
keeping the mind steadily upon it. There is one
measure still better than this for insomnia; that is, to
become entirely indifferent as to whether you sleep
or not. Possess yourself of the belief that sleep is
unnecessary for you, that you are as well off without
it. Occupy your mind by reciting poetry, recalling
the past, or planning work for the future, assuring
yourself that your body is getting rest. If you can
become entirely convinced of this fact, with no lurk-
ing combative belief, you will be surprised to see
that you have obtained a condition which will soon
result in oblivion.
LEUCORRHEA. — A thin, milky greenish or watery
discharge is not unfrequently a great annoyance in
pregnancy, and a drain upon the vitality. It is usu-
ally the result of inflammation in the uterus and
vagina, or an irritation set up by hardened feces in
the rectum. Leucorrhea is not a disease, but is sim-
ply the symptom of a disease, as the cough or sputa
are symptoms of bronchitis. This is nature's effort
to throw off inflammation. She fails in the attempt,
and such a condition is produced that the discharge
becomes chronic.
Do not use astringents for leucorrhea. They only
palliate by drying the secretion for a short time.
When the remedy is omitted the discharge returns,
or more grave symptoms appear. The cause should
PRURITUS. 89
be treated. For many cases good results will follow
the use of hot injections of carbolic soap suds. Two
hours a day, wear cotton in the vagina saturated
with glycerine. This temporarily increases the dis-
charge, but aids to remove irritation. Like other
symptoms this yields to thorough hygienic measures.
Pruritus of the vulva often becomes very trouble-
some; may be the result of a sanious leucorrhea, ex-
cessive dryness, inflammation or eruptions. For the
first cause, treat accordingly. For inflammation of
the labia apply cloths in a cold lotion of borax, one
teaspoonful to a quart of water. For dryness apply
glycerine upon cotton. Pruritus will usually be re-
lieved by the following lotion:
3 Tincture Lobelia
" Benzoin
Glycerine
Alcohol
a a 3ij
Add benzoin last, slowly.
Apply upon absorbent cotton or oakum. Cleanse
the parts frequently with carbolic soap suds.
As hygienic treatment of pregnancy is fully given,
other symptoms are omitted. Remember that suf-
fering is the result of violated laws. With physical
as moral law:
" Each man's life
The outcome of his former living is.
The bygone wrongs bring forth sorrow and woes;
The bygone right breeds bliss,
That which ye sow, ye reap."
CHAPTER VII.
HYGIENE OF PREGNANCY. — DRESS.
What more charming sight than a rosy, robust
young woman! Full of vigor, life, strength, power;
her step elastic, bounding, her face radiant, her pres-
ence magnetic! To such there are no fears, no
forebodings in maternity!
She needs not the counsels of physician or books.
Her own life fulfills the law. It is not for her I write,
but for those who, constantly violating physical laws,
never know the blessedness of health.
A woman possessed of a good constitution, having
had proper physical training, is fully prepared to
assume the responsibilities of marriage and mater-
nity. As Nature's own child, she needs to make but
little change in her habits during the period of
gestation.
Realizing her obligations to offspring and posterity,
long before assuming the marriage relation she has
practiced all known laws of health.
Dr. Holbrook says: "Those ailments to which
pregnant women are liable, are, most of them, incon-
veniences rather than diseases, although they may
be aggravated to a degree of real danger. Arising,
as they do, from the temporary physical condition of
the organism, what they require is, not such medical
treatment as may be needed for a true disease, but
(90)
CONGENIAL SURROUNDINGS. 9I
rather a general hygienic regimen. For a similar
reason, while on the one hand it may not be possible
to remove them entirely, yet on the other they can
almost always be greatly alleviated.
"In general, however, it maybe first observed that
such a way of living as shall maintain and elevate the
usual standard of mental and physical health, will, of
course, increase the pozver of resisting and surmounting
all ailments whatever T
The aim of this work is to show how this standard
may be gained and maintained. The directions
given in the following pages are simply teachings of
nature. No nostrums or mysterious prescriptions
are recommended, but the simple lessons herein
given are an effort to teach women how to regain
that which they have lost through the errors of
civilization.
Congenial surroundings are essential for health
of both mother and child. Wealth and luxuries are
not needful, but comfort and agreeable companion-
ship are desirable, with freedom from excessive phys-
ical burdens and mental anxieties.
Men and women are to-day suffering from lack of
vitality, caused by the overwork and burdens of our
pioneer mothers during gestation. The farmer who
would not work his mare in foal, counsels or provides
for his pregnant wife no relief from toil and care.
The mechanic's wife, knowing the need of making
every dollar do its utmost, performs the severest
drudgery, with only aches, pains and puny offspring
for her compensation.
It is true that gestation often gives to woman more
than ordinary ambition, which may excel her phys-
92 AN OLD lady's STORY.
ical strength. With usual health and suitable sur-
roundings, she frequently experiences a mental state
of exaltation. She expresses herself as feeling "as if
she trod upon air." Her whole being drinks from
the fountain of life. She is brought en rapport with
all things divine. She herself is a creator, and is it
not divine to create.?
In this state of exaltation she is no judge of her
physical strength. The prudent, watchful husband
and loving friends must be her guardians. She must
be held in check and admonished of self-interest and
the well-being of her child. Otherwise great injuries
are likely to be inflicted upon herself and offspring.
I am acquainted with a charming old lady, whose
seventy-eight summers have left her in possession of
health and happiness, as a heritage of a well-spent
life. In talking of these things, she says:
"Doctor, why is it that my daughters, Jane, Re-
becca and Mary Ann, have no powers of endurance.?
Their father was never sick. My own health and
strength have been a marvel to every one. Why!
the three girls together cannot do the work I could
when I was their age. Girls are no account now-a-
days. When I was like for my children, I could get
up and milk the cows, churn and make cheese. This
was not all; I could take the wool from the sheep's
back, wash, card, spin, weave and make it into gar-
ments. I could walk two miles to church. I slept
soundly and ate heartily. Why, what would have
become of us, if I had been lying about in wrappers
and slippers, dosing with drugs as my girls do now.?"
Bless the heart of the dear old lady! Just because
she did all this, her daughters are not her equals in
A STORY OF HIGH LIFE. 93
Strength. She robbed them of their inheritance, by-
spending all her vitality in exhausting labor, and
vicariously they atone for her wrong-doing.
The woman who indulges in the excessive gayety
of fashionable life, as well as the overworked woman,
deprives her child of vitality. She attends parties
in a dress that is unphysiological in warmth, distri-
bution and adjustment, in rooms badly ventilated;
partakes of a supper of indigestible compounds, and
remains into the "wee, sma' hours," her nervous sysr
tem taxed to the utmost.
Although faint, weary and exhausted, the follow-
ing day is spent in receptions and calls, closing with
theater or opera. If abortion is not the result, can
any sane woman expect her child under such circum-
stances to be in possession of vigor and strength.^
Bounding health is the inheritance of childhood.
Woe to the parent who robs it of this inheritance!
I was summoned one morning by a Mr. B., a
cheery, successful business man, to see his wife.
He says: "Doctor, I have exhausted my skill, and
must have advice from higher authority."
"What is your diagnosis.''"
"Pregnancy, five months, accompanied by hysteria;
unlike herself, she is irritable, fretful and morose;
sleeps but little, and has no patience with the chil-
dren or servants."
This is no unusual case. I found Mrs. B. living in
a handsome three-story dwelling elegantly furnished.
Every luxury was at her command. She had a deli-
cate, sensitive organization, extremely susceptible to
all influences. Her five children were full of spirit,
noisy and exacting. A late breakfast caused hurry
94 STORY CONTINUED.
and confusion in preparation for school. Upon arriv-
ing I found my lady weeping uncontrollably, and
apparently in great trouble. I took her hand, say-
ing: "My poor child, what is it.-*"
"Oh, I wish I could get away from myself; life is
not worth living."
"None can do that; tell me all, and let us see if
your sorrows and ills cannot be alleviated."
The truth was that, although an indulged wife, her
burdens were beyond her strength. The Irish cook,
good-natured and efficient, had been detected in car-
rying provisions to a sick friend. The second girl
had a beau every night, who remained so late that
she had insufficient sleep. In consequence she was
fretful to the children and unfitted for all her duties.
The youngest child, still a mere baby, was teething
and required attention night and day. Though sur-
rounded by every comfort that love could procure,
her strength was too greatly taxed. Later in the day
her husband called at my office.
He says: "What is four diagnosis, doctor. '*"
"Overtaxed; her nervous system is worn out."
"Why, she has all the help she wants, and needs to
do nothing."
"True; but there is no help to be had for the very
things that have worn her out. No one can take a
mother's place. She has children too fast for her
strength. She is a conscientious mother, desiring to
give every child proper training. To do this requires
that domestic arrangements be systematic and
complete. Successful housekeeping, under modern
improvements, requires the combined heads of an
army general and a secretary of state,"
PARENTAL OBLIGATION. 95
"Well, doctor, what is your prescription?"
"Take her away from it all."
"Where had she better go?"
"To her mother, a hygienic institute, or what is
better, can't you get away from business awhile, and
go with her yourself ? It would do her a world of
good. Have a second honeymoon; let her see, hear
and do what pleases her best, and, mark my word,
you will be well paid,"
"I declare! I never thought of matters in that
light before. I believe that you are right. I can
get away next week, and I will. Mother can come
in and take care of the children while we are gone
just as well as not."
To parents I would say with Fowler: "By all the
value of splendid children over poor or none, should
all other interests be subservient to maternity, not it
to them. Brush aside, like cobwebs, pecuniary, am-
bitional, and all other ends, and make it imperious
lord over all. Your family may better live on bread
and water, and you have splendid children, than do
all this work, and have ill-natured, sickly ones.
What are stylish rooms and furniture, many and
high-seasoned dishes, in comparison with a sweet and
healthful child? . . . Your child-rearing mission
is your one duty. Do this in the very best manner
possible, but make all else secondary. See that the
prospective mothers want nothing. They deserve,
and, as society advances, will yet receive universal
sympathy, along with the utmost care and affection."
On account of the foregoing remarks, do not sup-
pose that an idle, dependent life is counseled. By no
means. A woman in pregnancy, as at other times,
96 LUCRATIVE WORK.
should be actively employed, and if it can be in some
absorbing, congenial, lucrative work, so much the
better. It is the incessant nothings of woman's work
which, while accomplishing so little, yet wear out
the nerves, and exhaust the patience.
" abor is life! 'Tis the still water faileth!
Idleness ever despaireth, bewaileth!
Keep the watch wound, or the dark rust assaileth;
Flowers droop and die in the stillness of noon.
Labor is glory! The flying cloud lightens:
Only the waving wing changes and brightens.
Idle hearts only the dark future frightens.
Play the sweet keys, wouldst thou keep them in tune!"
A lady well known to a large circle of friends as a
successful writer and business woman, the mother of
a large family of sons and daughters, who, at the age
of forty-five is the personification of health and en-
ergy, had this remarkable experience: During the
period preceding the birth of her fourth child, pecu-
niary misfortune, and the ill-health of her husband,
combined to make it necessary for her to carry on
his business. She was obliged to walk nearly two
miles every day to his store, where she staid all day
absorbingly engaged in the duties of looking after
the details of sales, keeping the books, accounts, etc.,
after which day's work she walked back to her home.
Everybody said Mrs. B. would surely break down,
but instead of doing so she preserved the most vig-
orous health, and experienced none of the sick and
nervous feelings usually incidental to pregnancy.
When the child was born, the extraordinary circum-
stance that its birth was attended with scarcely any
pain, led the physician and the lady herself to inquire
A NOTED woman's EXPERIENCE. 97
what might be the cause of such a happy departure
from the usual rule.
No other reason could be assigned than the long,
regular walks, and the vigorous state of her bodily-
health. Taking a hint from these facts, in all her
subsequent pregnancies, she adopted the plan of
taking a large amount of out-door exercise, and
keeping her mind occupied by useful employment,
and in every succeeding birth the same happy results
were obtained.
That she was engaged in an absorbing and con-
genial occupation, no doubt had much to do with the
fact that maternity to her seemed only one of the
incidents of life. She had no time to foster aches
and pains. The conviction that, by her business
management, the support of the family was main-
tained during her husband's illness, inspired her with
unusual energies and hopes. Could women uplift
their home life, realizing the noble work they are
accomplishing in their every day duties, they would
find in them an inspiration which avails much against
physical debility.
Let rne prophesy that different and improved
methods will be devised to accomplish woman's
work. The mothers of the future will be less bur-
dened, and at the same time achieve more satisfac-
tory results in the labor performed.
This can be done, and the ideal home preserved.
Under the present system, many instances of demor-
alization in domestic life are in consequence of the
mother's inability to fulfill all the requirements of her
position. She is the tie that holds the home — the
mainspring of home-life. In the prophesied future,
98 DRESS IN PREGNANCY.
she may not wash all the dishes and bake all the
bread, any more than she now does the spinning and
weaving; yet the maternal love, life and instinct will
build a nest far more adapted to successful rearing
of offspring than is done under present conditions.
DRESS.
*' Give me a form, give me a face
That lend simplicity and grace;
Robes loosely flowing, hair as free, —
Such sweet neglect more taketh me
Than all the adulteries of art;
They strike mine eyes, but not mine heart."
From first to last, the pregnant woman's dress
should be physiological aud hygienic. Perfect free-
dom for every physical power must be secured.
What does this demand? Emphatically looseness and
lightness, as well as sufficient and equable warmth.
See to it that not one article of dress impedes, in the
slightest degree, the functions of the body. To
accomplish this, one must do away with bands, bones
and petticoats.
One already dressing healthfully needs to make
but little change for pregnancy. Under all circum-
stances and at all times, dress should cause no re-
striction to respiration; no interference with diges-
tion; no obstruction to circulation. In pregnancy,
furthermore, there should be no hindrance to the
development and elevation of the uterus. To ac-
complish this, a radical change must be made in the
usual dress of woman. It is now a complete failure
as far as fulfilling any useful requirements, and for
decorative purposes rules of art are violated.
COMMON SENSE SHOES. 99
Dr. Trail says, "If he were asked what one agency
stands at the very head of morbific influences, in
causing frailty and malformation, he should answer
woman^s dress."
The present movement in dress reform, or correct
dress, combines art, health and utility. One of the
most notable features is that each lady is free to
construct her own styles, and in no wise feels bound
to conform to fashion. This movement is wide-
spread and seems to have a firm foothold among
women of all classes.
One can be dressed decently, decorously, harmoni-
ously; yes, even elegantly, and still commit no grave
violation against physiological law. How can
this be done .-' What changes from the ordinary
dress does this involve ^ Let us begin at the foun-
dation:
A common sense shoe should be worn. This is^
constructed upon anatomical principles, allowing
freedom of all the muscles and producing no pres-
sure upon the nerves or blood-vessels. The sole is
as wide as the bottom of the foot, the heel is little
if any higher than the sole. The curve and elas-
ticity of the arch and the freedom of the toes are
assured.
Many women suffer from headache, defects in vis-
ion, loss of voice, indigestion, backache, etc., simply
from reflex action of the pressure of the shoes upon
nerves of the foot. I have seen young girls often re-
lieved of tedious backache, by following simply, and
only the prescription of a change to common sense
shoes. An elocutionist of fine physical development,
weighing at least 170 pounds testified that he could
1
lOO FASHION IN DEFORMITY.
not command the chest tones of his voice, if his boots
caused the slightest compression of his feet. Are
not women's nerves as tell-tale in their communica-
tions as were those of this stalwart man!
Two bright, intelligent young ladies entered a
very crowded south side car. One, with a scowl of
pain and fatigue upon her face, said, " I do wish
some gentleman would give me a seat. My feet are
just coming off." Her companion answered gaily:
" Oh, I don't care to sit down. I can stand as well
as any man, and so could you if you wore common
sense shoes."
Reader, this is not all you could do "as well as a
man" if your feet were your untrammeled servants.
Do you say that these shoes are inelegant and you
can not endure them .'' No sensible person can
really suppose that there is anything in itself ugly or
even unsightly in the form of a perfect human foot;
and yet all attempts to construct shoes upon its
model are constantly met with the objection that
something extremely inelegant must be the result.
It will perhaps be a form to which the eye is not ac-
customed; but there is no more trite saying than
the ordinary nature of fashion in her dealings with
our outward appearance, and we all know how any-
thing that has received her sanction is for the time
being considered elegant and tasteful, though a few
years later it may come to be looked upon as posi-
tively ridiculous.
That our eye would soon get used to admiring a
different shape may be easily proven by any one who
will for a short time wear shoes constructed upon a
more correct principle. The prevailing shoe, sug-
UNION UNDERGARMENTS. : *0:
gestive of cramped and atrophied toes, soon becomes
positively painful to look upon! These improved
shoes are gradually gaining ground even in the fash-
ionable world. We see them worn by the best
dressed ladies on the streets of our cities. They are
found in show cases and windows of shoe-dealers
who clothe the feet of aristocracy.
If one persists in wearing the customary shoe in
pregnancy, the feet may swell, and untold discomfort
result. Relief is frequently obtained at the expense
of the husband's slippers. Let him provide his wife
a pair of youth's slippers at least two sizes larger
than those she ordinarily wears. This will save his
Christmas gift and possibly teach the wife a valuable
lesson about common sense shoes.
In the Unio7i Under Garments, or combination suits,
there is a world of comfort and freedom. No
woman once adopting these garments, properly fitted,
will "back-slide" to the old chemise and drawers.
The chemise, as the word indicates, is of Arabic
origin. Being made of wash material, its original
intent was to protect other clothing from emanations
of the body. In its native country it is high necked
and long sleeved. Its present uncomfortable style
had its origin with Parisian demi-monde. It constricts
the shoulders, and affords insufficient warmth to the
arms and upper part of the back and chest. The
superior portion of the lungs needs even more pro-
tection than the lower, especially on the back. The
drawers can never be so adjusted that the band will
allow the free use and development of the muscles
upon which it presses.
The union suits can be found in dress reform
102 SECURE PERFECT PATTERNS.
rooms, and in most shops. They are made of sflk,
all wool, half-wool, and lisle thread. Not being able
to procure them, one can herself readily convert the
ordinary undergarments into a union suit. Rip off
the band from the drawers, try them on with the
the vest, and adjust them perfectly. Remove the
surplus length in the front from the drawers, and in
the back from the vest; put them together with a lap
seam, leaving the extra fullness of the drawers in the
back. In this way a satisfactory suit can be pro-
duced. These can be worn winter and summer, if
demanded by the needs of the climate or indi-
vidual.
The chemiloon is a union of the chemise and draw-
ers. In the summer this garment can be made of
cotton or linen, and worn with or without the union
under flannels. It can be trimmed and embroidered
to one's taste. In the winter it should be of flan-
nel or ladies' cloth. Chemiloon patterns can be
obtained of pattern dealers. Do not expect that
other people's patterns, or those that you buy will
be perfectly adapted to you. It is well to fit a suit
from old material first. Be sure that it is sufficiently
long in the back. Shortness in the seat is a prevail-
ing fault with patterns for sale. Remedy this by
putting a two inch fold in the cloth on the side,
where the back of the pattern comes. The sleeves
of these chemiloons should be long, especially the
flannel for winter. Remember always that the com-
fort of these garments depends upon a perfect fit.
K princess garment is a waist and skirt combined.
This can be made of muslin, pongee, or other wash
silks. For extra warmth use of tennis flannel. It can
CORRECT DRESS IO3
be cut from a polonaise or princess dress pattern, hav-
ing it about the length of an ordinary underskirt.
This undergarment can have eyelet lacings in the front
darts and thus make it adjustable to the increasing
size.
A princess lining to a dress with the same dart lacings
makes a convenient maternity gown. The outside goods
of any material can be draped upon this according to
taste or fashion.
The Divided Skirt has become a popular garment
with those making a change in dress. This is made
of pongee or other wash silks, mohair or ladies*
cloth. It is cut like drawers, but has a width of 44
to 50 inches of goods in each leg. This is attached
to a yoke, instead of a band, and cut on the bias, to
fit the hips. A combination of the Divided Skirt
and Bates Waist makes a very satisfactory garment.
This is made by cutting the front of the waist and
the skirt or drawers in one. The back of the skirt
is cut separate from the waist, and made longer at
the top. The extra fullness is put in at the hips and
back. It should lap about two inches in the back.
This is worn over a union suit, and takes the place of
all underskirts or petticoats.
Equestrian Tights are now worn by many ladies as
a complete substitute for petticoats. These are
usually black, and are woven of silk, wool and cot-
ton. Some ladies purchase those that cover the
entire body, like the Union Suits, others wear the
drawers only. They can be found in the prominent
dry goods houses of our large cities. With some
fullness or drapery to the dress, the absence of skirts
is not as noticeable as one would suppose.
104 THE EMANCIPATED WOMAN.
The dress itself is made on a princess lining, style
and drapery being adjusted and trimmed to suit the
taste and need of the wearer.
Clothed in the above garments, with the dress
loose enough for the performance of every bodily
function, one will feel as if she had really broken
chains, or escaped prison bars.
A tall, noble, brilliant, queenly woman had been a
great sufferer from disease, drugs, doctors and dress.
To regain health, she had with characteristic en-
ergy made a complete change in her garments. No
one who saw her will forget her electrifying expres-
sion of triumph as she exclaimed: "For the first time
in my life I am an emancipated woman."
Freedom in dress had given her freedom to breathe,
live, think, walk and work. Freedom in dress, with
physical training, makes it possible for every young
girl to possess the form of a Venus or Minerva.
What is a test of the dress being sufficiently
loose.? This is good: lie flat upon the back, and with
the hips slightly elevated, be able to take a full, deep
and prolonged respiration without hindrance. An-
other is to hold a book between the tips of the mid-
dle fingers, raise the divms perfectly perpendicular dind
parallel to the sides of the head, inflate the lungs,
and promenade the room. If this can be done easily,
the dress offers no restraint for any movement.
By the ordinary dress, even if there is not actually
tight lacing, simply a snug- Jit, we get alterations in
the shape and position of the organs. "When it is
considered that the organs compressed are those by
which the important functions of respiration, circu-
lation and digestion are carried on, as well as those
CORSET CHORUS. 10$
essential to the proper development and healthy
growth of a fetus, it is no wonder that people
suffer who have brought themselves under such
conditions."
The present styles afford many pretty ways for
making wrappers and snug-fitting gowns. In the
true woman any morbid sensibility in regard to ap-
pearance will be lost sight of in the great good
gained for herself and child by having a healthful
dress.
Hark! I hear a distant murmur of questions.
From many, these reach my ear: Are the garments
you describe all a lady is to wear.? Does she not
need a corset.-* What if one cannot hold herself up
without a corset.? Will she wear a corset under or
over the princess waist.? Does a loose corset do any
harm.? Wouldn't you recommend Madame Foy's
corset.? Won't she be benefited by a health (?) corset.?
What about health reform corsets.? And faster and
faster the questions come, until my ears are deafened
with corset! corset! corset!
If women had common sense, instead oi fashion sense^
the corset would not exist. There are not words in
the English language to express my convictions upon
this subject. The corset, more than any other one
thing, is responsible for woman's being the victim of
disease and doctors.
Mark this: that part of the body around which we
place corset and bands has no bony structure for its
protection. This very pliability renders it possible
for one unconsciously yet easily to produce a deform-
ity in a few weeks.
Who can begin to prophesy the untold and mani-
I06 DEATH RAMS OF CHILDREN.
fold sufferings for which a factory full of corsets
must be responsible? And where is the end? If the
wearer only had to pay the penalty with pain and'
weakness, we might hold our peace.
What is the effect upon the child? One-half of the
children born in this country die before they are five
years of age. Who can tell how much this state of
things is due to the enervation of maternal life forces
by this one instrument of torture?
I am a temperance woman. No one can realize
more than I the devastation and ruin alcohol in its
many tempting forms has brought to the human fam-
ily. Still I solemnly believe that in weakness and
deterioration of health, the corset has more to answer
for than intoxicating drinks.
What affects the physical affects the spiritual;
what affects the animal life affects the mental. Given
a physical body dwarfed and deteriorated in any
respect, and a corresponding deficiency in spiritual,
intellectual and moral worth is likely to exist. Look
at our men and women who have been grand and
successful in achievement, noble in purpose, and vig-
orous in intellect. With few exceptions they are
men and women of harmonious, strong, athletic
physiques. Women cannot possibly attain to this
condition under the restricting influence of boned
and steeled garments.
"What possible harm can a corset do if worn
loose?" My friend, put a band quilted full of cords
and bones upon the arm of your active boy, whose
athletic feats are your pride; let him wear it ever so
loosely, and witness the deteriorating effect upon
his biceps and triceps muscles! Put a similar ban-
A CONFIDENTIAL INQUIRY. 10?
dage upon your pet cat or dog, Just as loosely as can
be retained, and watch the result upon respiration,
digestion and circulation! Mark my word, in less
than a month it will take more than pepsin to make
the food of that animal digest, or magnetic insoles
to keep its feet warm.
At the close of one of my medical conversations a
bright, intelligent young married woman took me
aside and asked me very confidentially how far ad-
vanced a woman should be in pregnancy before she
laid aside the corset. I had for several days repeated
and reiterated in strongest terms my convictions that
it was always to be deprecated and never tolerated.
Consequently I was greatly astonished at the ques-
tion. I replied: " Is it possible that with all these
illustrations and with all this strong language I have
not made myself plain.? Have I talked in vain.-*"
Then loud enough for the group standing about to
hear, I said, " The corset should not be worn for two
hundred years before pregnancy takes place. Ladies, it
will take that time at least to overcome the ill
effects of this garment which you think so essential!
Abandoning the corset entirely and adopting a
physiological dress, aside from lessening suffering in
pregnancy, goes very far toward alleviating, yes,
even curing many of the diseases peculiar to women.
Once a woman begins to think outside of Fashion's
dictum, she fully thinks herself out of the bars of dress.
Once free, her road to recovery is made clear. With
other common sense rules of living, health becomes
restored and precious life saved.
In an Iowa college,the professor of natural history,a
petite lady, became very enthusiastic upon examining
io8 A teacher's story.
some dress reform goods, and gave quite a lecture to
the students upon their advantages. She said that in
her school days and first years of teaching she could
not walk over three blocks without fatigue and actual
pain. When her day's work was done she was com-
pelled to lie down, being unable to see friends or do
extra work. Four years previously, however, she
had adopted "common sense" shoes, the reform un-
derwear, also a skirt supported by a waist, and the
dress itself made loose and light, as well as short
enough to clear the mud in walking. By this change
in her habits she had become able to walk miles in
her search for specimens, and knew nothing of wear-
iness or the necessity of rest, save the regular hours
of sleep. This is not an exaggerated case, and thou-
sands of delicate, tired, useless girls can become
strong and useful if they will " go and do likewise."
Prof. N. H. Flower closes his admirable work upon
"Fashion in Deformity" with these valuable thoughts:
" The true form of the human body is familiar to us
from classic models. It is, however, quite possible
that some of us may think the present fashionable
shape the more beautiful of the two. In that case it
would be well to consider whether we are sure our
judgment is sound on this subject. Let us remem-
ber that to the Australian, the nose-peg is an admired
ornament; that to the Thlinkeet the Botocudos and
Congo negro, the lip dragged down by a heavy plug,
and the ears distended by huge disks of wood, are
things of beauty; that the Malay prefers teeth that
are black. Let us carefully ask ourselves whether we
are sure that in leaving nature as a standard of the
beautiful, and adopting a purely conventional one, we
fowler's clarion note. 109
are not falling into an error exactly similar to that of
all these people whose tastes we are so ready to con-
demn. The fact is, that in admiring such distorted
forms as the constricted waist and pointed foot, we
are opposing our judgment to the Maker of our
bodies, we are neglecting the criterion offered by
nature; we are simply putting ourselves on the level
in point of taste with those Australians, Botocudos,
and negroes. We are taking fashion, and nothing
better, higher or truer for our guide, and may we not
well ask with Shakespeare: "Seest thou not what a
deformed thief this fashion is ? "
Prof. O. S. Fowler, ever a staunch and fearless ad-
vocate for health and temperance, only emphasizes
what all sensible persons must believe:
^^ Tight lacuig is the chief cause of infantile mortal-
ity. That it inflicts the very worst forms of physi-
cal ruin on woman and offspring is self-evident. No
evil equals that of curtailing this maternal supply of
breath; nor does anything do this as effectually as
tight lacing. If it were merely a female folly, or if
its ravages were confined to its perpetrators, it might
be allowed to pass unrebuked; but it strikes a deadly
blow at the very life of the race. By girting in the
lungs, stomach, heart and diaphragm, it cripples
every one of the life-manufacturing functions, impairs
the circulation, prevents muscular action, and lays
siege to the child-bearing citadel itself. By the
want of abundant maternal vitality, air, exercise and
digestion, is this practice murderous to both. It often
destroys germinal life before or soon after birth, by
most effectually cramping, inflaming and weakening
the vital apparatus and stopping the flow of life at its
V
no NATURAL WAISTS OR NO WIVES
fountain-head. It slowly but surely takes the lives
of tens of thousands, and so effectually weakens and
diseases millions more, as ultimately to cause their
untimely death. No tongue can tell, no finite mind
conceive the misery it has produced, nor the number
of deaths directly or indirectly of young women,
bearing mothers, and weakly infants it has occa-
sioned; besides the millions on millions it has caused
to drag out a short but wretched existence. If this
murderous practice continues another generation, it
will bury all the middle and upper classes of women
and children, and leave propagation to the coarse-
grained but healthy lower classes. Most alarmingly
has it already deteriorated our very race in physical
strength, power and constitution, energy and talents.
Let those who had rather bury than raise their chil-
dren marry tight lacers.
" Moralists, Christians, reformers, philosophers and
philanthropists of all sects and grades, come, let us
unite in presenting a frowning front to this race-ruin-
ing practice, and bachelors insist on nattiral waists or
no wives, and frown down a practice your patronage
imposes! Woman will cease to lace just when you
cease to require it."
Would it not gladden the heart of Prof. Fowler to
see the present wide-spread movement among women
for correct dress, and also to know that the number is
on the increase of those who understand and realize
their obligations to posterity. The true mother is
everywhere to be found.
CHAPTER VIII.
HYGIENE IN PREGNANCY — BATHING.
Frequent bathing in pregnancy is of the great-
est importance. When the " water cure " fever first
ran like wild-fire through the country, many were
alarmed lest the child-bearing woman should do her-
self great harm. Although the cold water washing
was carried to great excess, few cases came to light
where any one was injured by it, while hundreds
bear testimony that they were greatly benefited.
Relief was obtained for the suffering both during
pregnancy and at confinement. One step at least
was taken in advance which never can be retraced.
Previous to that time women were actually afraid of
water. It might be well for others, but tradition
and prejudice taught that if a pregnant woman
bathed in cold water, she ran great risk, and if her
hands even were put in cold water after confinement
she would surely die.
The " water cure " people took the other extreme.
The woman doused and swam the whole nine months,
and fifteen minutes after her child was born, she
would be lifted into a full or sitz-bath of cold water.
The doctor and the good grandmother could not
account for the fact that she survived, save by attrib-
uting it to some special providence. Forty years
only have worked wondrous changes, and now all
(III)
112 SPONGE OR TOWEL BATH.
intelligent women know the luxury of the bath in
this condition, and many recognize its therapeutic
value.
The processes of nutrition and waste are more
active in the pregnant woman than in any other.
Her condition is more like that of a child, con-
sequently she can bathe more frequently with
advantage.
The sponge or towel bath, taken in the morn-
ing two or three times a week, is stimulating and
invigorating, No more than two minutes is required
for this bath. It should be taken immediately upon
rising, while the temperature of the body is warm
enough to insure thorough reaction. The colder one
can use the water, the more sure the reaction. The
first few mornings bathe the upper part of the body
only. In a short time one can venture upon the
whole surface. It should be followed by friction
with a Turkish towel or coarse mitten, and if the
person is not strong, with rubbing by an assistant.
Then for five minutes take deep inspirations of fresh
air, and the people are few who do not /eel £-ood after
this ablution. It is par excellence the "ounce of
preventive." It is a "coat of mail" against colds,
catarrhs and influenzas. To the pregnant woman it
is life and vitality, and atones for a multitude of
physical sins.
A man once wrote that, "by wearing magnetic
appliances, ozone was developed in the blood."
Whether he knew what ozone was, or what condi-
tion the blood was in when ozone was in it, is not
proven. If, however, it is possible to get a condition
in which you feel that there is "ozone in the blood,"
THE SITZ-BATH. II3
it ^ after one of these quick, cold, tonic, invigorating
berths. My experience in prescribing it has proven
that it is not debilitating, even when taken twice
daily. Too many warm baths may, in time, reduce
the physical standard. But simply wetting the sur-
face, with hand, sponge or towel in cold water, or,
what some prefer, dashing cold water quickly over
the body, is a decided tonic. A little courage and per-
severance is required to form the habit — once formed,
few relinquish it. If no reaction follows, and the per-
son remains cold, it should not be persevered in.
The SITZ-BATH is one of the most desirable baths
for the pregnant woman. A tin tub made especially
for this bath (procured of dealers in tinware), requir-
ing but little water, ought to be in every household.
If unable to procure one, a small-sized wash-tub can
be used, raising one side on a block of wood. Tepid
water is the most beneficial, unless for the relief of
pain or acute inflammation, when hot water should
be used. Commence taking it with the temperature
at 90° Fahrenheit, and gradually reduce it, until,
during the last months, it is as low as 60^. Remain
in it from three to eight minutes, then have towel
and hand friction, followed by rest in the reclining
position, and sleep if possible. If it causes a rush of
blood to the head, remain in for a less time, and put
a wet napkin around the neck.
From ten to twelve o'clock in the morning is the
best time to take this bath. If one has not time to
rest at this hour, it can be taken just before retiring.
Without the rest, half the value is lost. This bath
is a tonic, sedative, alterative, laxative, diuretic, anti-
spasmodic, anti-periodic, anti-phlogistic, etc.; indeed
114 HOT FOMENTATIONS.
it will do almost anything (iesired to be done for the
pregnant woman. It restores nervous equilibrium,
it removes obstructions from the surface, is invalua-
ble for portal congestion, and for inflammation of
any of the abdominal or pelvic viscera. Nothing is
better for insomnia, facial neuralgia, nausea, bilious-
ness, constipation, hemorrhoids, cramps, varicose
veins, weariness, headache, nervousness, etc., etc.
A woman has omitted the most effectual remedial
agent for pathological symptoms, if she has not tried
this bath; and not once only, but has taken it every
day, or twice a day for at least a month. She may
have taken any amount of remedies, may have used
outside appliances, but if she has not had this tepid
sitz-bath, she has omitted the very best and surest
means of relief. It cannot do harm, and it can do
great good.
For severe pain from colic, neuralgia or acute
inflammation, the bath should be taken warm, and in
some instances, quite hot; this should be continued
fifteen or twenty minutes,protecting the patient care-
fully with blankets, after which she should, without
removing them, lie on the bed and rest.
Hot fomentations are usually administered by
applying to the affected part a flannel cloth wrung
out of simple or medicated hot water. Some phy-
sicians prescribe bags of hops, tanzy, smart-weed, etc.,
or Indian meal or flaxseed poultice, to be kept hot
in a steamer. All these appliances are remonstrated
against by patients and nurses. They are disagreea-
ble and untidy. The bed gets wet and soiled, the
patient likewise. Moist heat is wanted, but one is
more likely to get moist cold, which has a dampen-
HOT FOMENTATIONS. 11$
ing- effect upon both body and mind. The nurse
scalds her hands, ruins clothing, and execrates the
doctor who prescribed them.
The very best method of making hot applications
is by means of the rubber " hot water bottle." These
hold from one to four quarts, and can be readily pro-
cured. Boiling water can be used in them, and the
heat will be retained many hours. They are soft,
pliable and agreeable to the touch, and adjust them-
selves to every part of the body. When moisture is
desired, place a wet cloth under them. No well
regulated family should be zvithout a hot water bottle.
When, however, this is lacking, there are several
convenient modes of making hot applications. Put
part of a sheet or blanket around the patient, to pro-
tect the bed and clothing. Then lay a newspaper
upon a cook stove, or flat top of a heating stove.
Wring a large flannel cloth dry as possible out of
cold or tepid water. Lay it between the folds of the
paper, and it will soon steam hotter than can be.
handled. Take it to the patient and place it under-
neath the sheet, in contact with the body. Have
another cloth heating, to take the place of this one
when it ceases to be hot. The moist cloth can also
be kept hot by putting it on a tin plate which is in
the oven or on top of a stove. The virtue of a
fomentation is in the heat, and it must be kept hot.
Another still more simple method, desirable where
the patient must wait upon herself, is to place over
the part affected a cloth wrung from warm water;
then lay over it a hot stove lid, wrapped securely in
paper. This will retain heat for a long time, and
gives the patient opportunity for rest.
Il6 THE COLD COMPRESS.
The hot fomentation is a valuable remedial
agent. It is rare to find acute suffering, where it is
not indicated. It alleviates neuralgia and rheumatic
pain. It is good for biliousness, constipation and tor-
pid liver. It relieves colic and flatulence, and is of
special value in menstrual pain or suppression.
Thoroughly applied, acute diseases may be arrested
without other aids.
The precautions that must be taken in using hot
fomentations, especially if moist, is to have them hot
and keep them hot while they are continued. When
removed, replace them with dry flannel or bathe the
part in tepid water, rub dry and put on the ordinary
clothing. The latter is desirable when used in chronic
affections. In acute attacks, especially of inflamma-
tion, it is well to follow or alternate with a compress
from cold water. Don't use paregoric, Dover's pow-
ders, morphine, or even a homeopathic preparation
until you have tried thoroughly the hot fomentation.
Remember that when you get relief from an applica-
tion like this you will not suffer from the poisonous
effects of drugs. You rally more quickly, and are
not as liable to another attack, for nature has had a
better opportunity to throw off diseased conditions.
The cold compress is a convenient, safe, desir-
able and effectual domestic remedy. Like the fo-
mentation, it requires knowledge and skill in its ap-
plication. Take a worn linen towel, wring dry from
cold water, apply to the affected part, then cover
well with several thicknesses of flannel, securely
excluding the air. Reaction soon follows, warmth
ensues, and the same or better result is obtained than
from a poultice. It can remain on one or two hours
A COMPRESS IN CROUP. 11/
or else all night. Should always be followed witn
thorough bathing in cold water and friction.
This compress must not be wet in warm water. In
that case it grows cold and keeps cold. If wet in cold
water, the colder the better, it sends the blood from
the surface, and the reaction causes it to get warm and
keep warm. To make it subserve its purpose these
three rules must be observed.
1. Wring from cold water.
2. Wring dry.
3. Cover thoroughly with flannel.
The compress should never be continued where
warmth and reaction can not be obtained. In per-
sons with a cold surface and a sluggish circulation it
is well to precede it for half an hour with a hot
fomentation.
The compress is oeneficial both for acute and
chronic inflammations. In sore throats, croup, bron-
chitis and inflammation of the lungs it is invaluable.
Many persons use no other means for croup, wring-
ing the cloth from ice-cold water. In inflammation
of the abdominal and pelvic viscera it is equally
good. In pregnancy, if there is irritation in the
stomach, congestion of the liver, constipation or dis-
tress of the bowels, accompanied by heat, the com-
press in these regions will be beneficial
The heat and dull aching pain in the back, that is
so often complained of, is the result of some irritation
in the uterus. The compress worn at night or when
taking the daily rest, will give great relief. It can
simply be put across the back, or may extend entirely
around the abdomen. The frequency and length of
time continued must depend upon the case.
Il8 THE TURKISH BATH.
The FOOT and leg baths are good derivative
appliances. Taken warm they will relieve nervous-
ness, sleeplessness and irritability.
For habitual cold feet there is no better remedy
than bathing the feet in cold water at bed-time.
Have everything ready for retiring. In the foot-tub
put three-fourths of an inch of cold water. Hold
the feet in that half a minute. Then dry with coarse
towel and spat them well with the hand. The reac-
tion gives warm feet for the night, and if persisted
in for three or four weeks, habitual cold feet are
often cured.
The TURKISH or thermal bath affords one of
the best, surest and safest sanative and therapeutic
agents known to medical science. In a well-ap-
pointed establishment for this bath, the subject
enters a room heated from 130*^ to 160'* Fahrenheit;
remains there until copious perspiration is induced.
He is then taken to a room, temperature about 90°
deg., where he is laid upon a slab or table and thor-
oughly shampooed with soap and water. This is
followed by a spray, douche, shower or plunge bath;
then he is dried and thoroughly manipulated by an
attendant, after which he lies upon a couch from
half to one hour to cool and rest. This bath is an
expensive luxury, and not within the reach of rich or
poor in any but our larger towns and cities.
A TURKISH OR thermal BATH AT HOME, with a
simple and inexpensive apparatus, has equal value as
a hygienic or therapeutic agent. Any woman with
ordinary common or nurse sense can give these baths
satisfactorily by observing the following directions:
Take a chair with a wooden seat, an armed office
THERMAL BATH AT HOME. II9
chair preferable, place in it a piece of flannel blanket
so folded that it will fall down in front; under the chair
put a coffee cup one-third filled with alcohol. If any
other vessel is used, be sure the opening is no larger
than a cup, as this gives sufficient surface for the com-
bustion of the amount of alcohol; have a foot tub
in front of the chair, with warm water for the feet.
The patient is seated in nature's raiments only, or
as Mark Twain says, "in her complexion," enveloped
closely in woolen blankets. One of these is put over
her in front and the other at the back, outside of the
chair. After she is seated and covered, light the
alcohol with a taper. Don't risk burning yourself by
using a match. The subject will begin co perspire
in from three to five minutes. If blood rushes to the
head, giving a red face and feeling of fullness in the
brain, put a napkin round the neck, wrung from tepid
water. This is better than wetting the head, and it
has the advantage of not taking the " crimp " out of
her hair.
If she is faint or sick at the stomach, as one may
be with the first bath, or very bilious, let her drink
copiously of hot water or very weak ginger tea. If
the perspiration is slow in starting, or if the heat is
excessive, the surface may be bathed with a sponge
dipped in cold water. Let her remain fifteen to
twenty minutes, or longer if necessary, to induce
copious perspiration. She can then be bathed and
rubbed sitting in the chair. If weak, or if longer
perspiration is desired, let her lie upon bed or couch
enveloped in the blankets, where she can be bathed
under cover if necessary. Let the manipulation be
thorough. Squeeze, press and pinch every muscle in
I20 USES OF THE THERMAL BATH.
the body and spat the surface with the ends of the
fingers, having the wrist free. Using the entire arm
and palm of the hand makes hard work, and does
not give give good results. If the attendant is mag-
netic, the fingers cause tingling, like hundreds of
needles. Let the patient lie for an hour after this
treatment to rest, cool and sleep.
How readily and easily this luxury and remedial
agent can be carried into every home! The appara-
tus required is simply a wooden-seated chair, two and
a fraction woolen blankets, an old cup, a foot tub and
five cents' worth of alcohol.
This bath should be taken at least two hours after
eating. If taken sooner, it is nearly impossible to in-
duce perspiration, besides interfering with digestion.
For invalids, the preferable time is about ten or
eleven in the forenoon. The business man or woman
can take it upon rising in the morning, or just before
retiring. If necessary, one can go out immediately
after the bath. There is no danger of taking cold \i
one is bathed in cold or tepid water, and has
thorough massage.
As a sanative measure the Thermal Bath can be
taken at least once a week; for diseases, the fre-
quency depends upon the case.
It is not weakening. Invalids, unable to sit up,
gain strength with the daily use of this bath. In the
first renovating process that is induced, one may have
a se7tse of weakness or faintness, similar to the effects
of medicine that rouses up the vital functions, but
the cases are rare that this does not pass off in a few
hours, leaving a corresponding gain. The Thermal
Bath is valuable in health and disease.
DISEASES CURED BY THE THERMAL BATH. 121
1. It cleanses and promotes the healthy action of
the skin as no other bath can do, thus relieving the
other excretory organs.
2. It equalizes the circulation of the blood, and
removes all local congestions of any and every part,
which is one of the most important things to be
accomplished in the treatmerA of diseased conditions.
3. It is the quickest, e^^'iiest and most effectual
means known to man for purifying the blood. It
literally washes the blood of its impurities. The
patient drinks pure water, it is absorbed, passes into
and mingles with the Wood, by which it is carried to
the capillary net-wo/.< of the skin and poured upon
the surface in the frrm of perspiration; not pure as
when it was take.), into the stomach, but mingled
with the impurities of the blood. If this were its
only use, the Thermal Bath would be invaluable.
4. It soothe.*; and tranquilizes the nervous sys-
tem, sweeps the cobwebs of care from the brain,
leaving it clear and refreshed.
The Thernyal Bath is specially useful in the treat-
ment of ?M diseases arising from impurity of the
blood, irvactivity of the skin, local inflammations, or
unbalanced nervous action. It is invaluable for Drug
Poisoning, Scrofula, Consumption, Diseases of the
Skin, Dropsy, Remittent and Intermittent Fevers,
Coughs, Colds, Catarrh, Croup, Gout, Rheumatism,
Neuralgia, Diseases of the Liver and Kidneys, Bron-
chitis, Chronic Diarrhea, etc.
The THERMAL BATH will break up a cold in its
first stages, and at any time it will give certain alle-
viation. For ague it should be taken about the time
the chill is anticipated, and given thoroughly. The
122 EMINENT TESTIMONIALS.
cases are rare that will resist the third or fourth
bath, using no other means.
In chronic rheumatism it has no equal in thera-
peutics. For this it can be taken every day. Some
have taken twice a day with benefit. Cases long
resisting all other methods of treatment have been
entirely cured by this bath.
Most eruptive diseases are helped by it. A lady
had salt-rheum all over her body. A ten-cent piece
could not be laid on a spot free from eruption. She
took these baths daily for three months, without any
other remedy, and cured herself. She gained in
strength, flesh and appetite, and besides, found her-
self freed from many minor ailments.
The Thermal bath is valuable in pregnancy, when
there is dryness of the skin, coldness of the surface,
with sensitiveness to cold. If the pregnant woman
has any of the diseases mentioned above, she will
find this bath just as efficacious as If she was not
enciente. She should have a good, skillful attendant,
and take ample time to rest after it. Do not fear
disastrous results. Ladies have taken them once or
twice a week during the entire pregnancy with
benefit. The following testimonials only emphasize
what they have written.
They purify and invigorate. — D. Wark^ M. D.
Unsurpassed, as combining luxury and utility. —
R. M. Lackey, M. D.
The Turks have always considered the public
baths of Constantinople as supplying the place of a
certain number of hospitals, which would otherwise
have to be built. — Dr. Haughtott.
Ladies, note this: The use of the Turkish bath
EMINENT TESTIMONIALS. 1 23
renders the complexion more delicate and brilliant —
the eye becomes clearer and brighter — the whole
person is rendered fragrant, and all personal charms
are enhanced. — Dr, Barter.
After a day of labor and care, which had quite
exhausted me, I have just taken one of the Turkish
baths, and come out feeling as completely rested as
when I arose from my bed in the morning — in short,
as good as new. — L. H. Thomas^ M. D.
The only sure cure for a cold is the Turkish bath.
It opens the pores and starts the system afresh into
working order. I cheerfully commend it, even to
persons in good health, as the best means to keep
the secretions healthy. — Dr. D. F. Clinton.
Rely upon it, it is the ne plus ultra of baths. — Dr,
J. E. Westervelt.
CHAPTER IX.
HYGIENE IN PREGNANCY — DIET.
Proper food in pregnancy is not more necessary
for health and strength of the mother, than for giv-
ing normal development to the child. If the food
does not afford suitable nourishment, or is not prop-
erly assimilated, pathological conditions inevitably
result. Besides, few have learned that the kind of
nutriment taken has much to do with the ease or
severity of labor.
The food of the pregnant woman should consist of
articles that are nutritious, but not stimulating or
heating to the blood. It should be eaten at regular
intervals and under favorable conditions.
An important matter is to avoid fluids while eating.
Liquid, taken into the stomach, must be removed by
absorbents before the gastric fluid can be secreted to
dissolve the food and convert it into chyle. A strong,
healthy stomach may perform both processes easily.
One weakened by dyspepsia or the reflex action in
pregnancy may not be able to accomplish this double
duty; consequently very much is gained by taking
the food dry. Drink, if there is thirst, half an hour
before a meal, and not within three hours after. Eat
less salt and there will be less thirst.
Avoid all condiments, and for the most part fats
and sweets. The two latter are pure carbon, therefore
(124)
CHOICE OF FOODS. I25
cause and increase febrile conditions. Sufficient car-
bon can be obtained in the farinaceous food. Lean
meats, the very best beef, mutton boiled, roasted or
smothered, cooked quickly and rare, and wild game
may be eaten by some without injury. But owing
to their stimulating elements, and their effects upon
the formation of character, parents desiring to give
the world the best reproduction of themselves will
avoid the use of animal food.
A woman has for her diet a choice from all the
grains, all the vegetables and all the fruits. When a
working animal thrives and retains its strength upon
two articles only, viz., corn and straw or oats and
hay, can not the human make a bill of fare of suffi-
cient variety to please the most fastidious out of all
the grains, fruits and vegetables.'' If foods were
ordinarily chosen to supply the needs of wasted
tissues rather than to pander to perverted and capri-
cious appetites, there would be less necessity of a
special diet for pregnancy.
Physiologists have within a few years advanced
the theory that if a pregnant woman avoids food
rich in elements that nourish and develop bone, labor
would be comparatively easy and painless. This
theory was first made known in a small pamphlet
published in England in 1841. It was written by
Mr. Rowbotham, a practical chemist of London.
His wife had been such a sufferer in two confine-
ments that he had reason to fear she would not sur-
vive the third. The work gives an account of an
experiment which met with such favorable results
that he felt it his duty to publish it for the benefit
of others. His theory was that " in proportion as a
126 FRUIT DIET THEORY.
woman subsists during pregnancy upon aliment that
is free from earthy and bony matter, will she avoid
pain and danger in delivery; hence the more ripe
fruit, acid fruit in particular, and the less of other
kinds of food, but particularly of bread or pastry of
any kind is consumed, the less will be the danger
and suffering in childbirth.
"The subject of this experiment had, within three
years, given birth to two children; and not only
suffered extremely in the parturition, but for two or
three months previous to delivery her general health
was very indifferent, her lower extremities exceed-
ingly swelled and painful; the veins so full and
prominent as to be almost bursting; in fact to pre-
vent such a catastrophe, bandages had to be applied;
and for the last few weeks of gestation, her size and
weight were such as to prevent her attending to her
usual duties. She had on this occasion, two years
and a half after her last delivery, advanced //^//.y^z^^w
months in pregnancy before she commenced the ex-
periment at her husband's earnest instance; her legs
and feet were, as before, considerably swelled; the
veins distended and knotty, and her health dimin-
ishing.
"She began the experiment in the first week of
January, 1841. She commenced by eating an apple
and an orange the first thing in the morning, and
again at night. This was continued for about four
days, when she took just before breakfast, in addition
to the apple and orange, the juice of a lemon mixed
with sugar, and at breakfast two or three roasted
apples, taking a very small quantity of her usual food,
viz,, wheatea bread and butter. During the forenoon
MRS. ROWBOTHAM'S EXPERIENCE. 12/
she took an orange or two, and an apple. For dinner
took fish or flesh in a small quantity, and potatoes,
greens and apples, the apples sometimes peeled and
cut into pieces; sometimes boiled whole with the
potatoes; sometimes roasted before the fire and
afterward mixed with sugar. In the afternoon she
sucked an orange or ate an apple or some grapes,
and always took some lemon-juice mixed with
sugar or treacle.
"At first the fruits acted strongly on the stomach
and intestines, but this soon ceased, and she could
take several lemons without inconvenience. For
supper she again had roasted apples or a few oranges,
and rice or sago boiled in milk; sometimes the apples
peeled and cored, were boiled along with the rice or
sago. On several occasions she took for supper
apples and raisins, or figs with an orange cut among
them, and sometimes all stewed together. Two or
three times a week she took a tablespoonful of a
mixture made of the juice of two oranges, one lemon,
half a pound of grapes, and a quarter of a pound of
sugar or treacle. The sugar or treacle served mainly
to cover the taste of the acids, but all saccharine
matter is very nutritious. The object in giving the
acids was to dissolve as much as possible the earthy
or bony matter which she had taken with her food
in the first seven months of her pregnancy.
"She continued this course for six weeks, when to
her surprise a7id satisfaction, the swelled and prominent
state of the veinSyw\{\z\v existed before she began this
regimen, had entirely subsided; her legs and feet,which
were also swelled considerably, had returned to their
former state; and she became so light and active she
128 DISTRESSING SYMPTOMS RELIEVED.
could run up and down a flight of twenty stairs, with
more ease than before she was pregnant. Her health
became unwontedly excellent, and scarcely an ache
or a pain affected her up to the night of her delivery.
Even her breasts, which at the time she commenced
the experiment, as well as during her former preg-
nancies, were sore and tender, became entirely free
from pain, and remained in the very best condition
after delivery and during nursing."
It is evident Mr. Rowbotham obtained more than
he anticipated for his wife. He had only expected
to arrest or decrease the development of bone, but by
eating so largely of acid fruits, the inflammatory or
"bilious" condition was overcome. The oxygen of
the acids united with the excess of carbon previously
taken, thus relieved the pathological symptoms under
which she was suffering. It is doubtful whether the
final favorable results would have been attained had
this not been the case, as prolonged suffering often
accompanies a premature labor, even when there is
little osseous development. The fact that Mrs. R.'s
general health vi^as so much improved adds to the in-
terest and importance of the experiment.
He continues: "At nine o'clock A.M., after having
cleaned her apartments, she was in the yard shaking
a carpet, which she did with as much ease as anyone
else could have done. At half-past ten she said she
believed her * time was come,' and the accoucheur
was sent for. At one o'clock the child was born,
and the surgeon had left the room. He knew nothing
of the experiment being made, but on being asked
on paper by the husband two days afterward if he
could 'pronounce it as safe and as easy a delivery as
RAPID CONVALESCENCE. 1 29
he generally met with,' he replied on paper: * 1
hereby testify that I attended Mrs. Rowbotham on
the 3d inst., and that she had a safe labor and more
easy than I generally meet with.' On his asking the
midwife if she thought it as easy as usual, she re-
plied: 'Why, I should say that a more easy labor I
never witnessed — I never saw such a thing, and I
have been at a great many labors in my time! '
" The child, a boy, was finely proportioned and ex-
ceedingly soft, his bones resemblUig gristle. He be-
came of large size and very graceful, athletic and
strong as he grew up. The diet of his mother was
immediately changed, and she ate bread and milk
and all articles of food in which phosphate of lime
is to be found, and which had been left out before.
She also got up from her confinement immediately
and well. After her previous delivery, July, 1838,
full ten days elapsed before she could leave her bed,
and then she swooned at the first attempt; on this
occasion, March, 1841, she left her bed the fourth
day, and not only washed, but partly dressed herself.
Had she not been influenced by custom and also
been somewhat timid, she might have done so sooner.
To be assisted appeared like a burlesque to her, not
to say annoyance. She had no assistance from
medicine.
"D,ir.*- " forrr.'— ^gnancies,she had subsisted very
muc' -,*v.dd, puddings, pies, and all kinds of pas-
try, having an idea that solid food of this kind was
necessary to support the fetus. Nutritious food can
be had without this hard and bony element, which is
so large an ingredient of wheaten flour. Sago, tap-
ioca, rice, etc., have little of it."
I30 THEORY TESTED.
This is a remarkable case, indeed, in some respects
seems almost incredible. The theory expounded
certainly deserves consideration. If there is any
reasonable method by which the throes of parturi-
tion can be mitigated, women want to and ought to
know it.
I have tested this theory thoroughly, and know
many physicians who have instructed their patients
accordingly. For a number of years I have been
teaching it to women in conversations, and have many
testimonials of good results. One commencing to
practice this method at the beginning of pregnancy
need not eat so plentifully of the fruit as did Mrs. R.
A woman who, all her life, has violated natural
laws, and consequently has been an invalid, is dis-
eased by deleterious diet and deformed by unnatural
modes of dress, can not expect to have a perfectly
painless labor. Even such can, however, do much to
mitigate her suffering by fidelity to these teachings.
Like Mrs. R,, comfort, health, strength and vivacity
can be obtained during pregnancy, and the agony of
parturition, that usually continues from twenty-four
to forty-eight hours, can be reduced both in dura-
tion and violence. The consequence will be a speedy
restoration of the organs to a normal condition.
'"or further proof of this theory, the reader's
attention is called to the following notable expe-
rience: A Mrs. W., the wife of a prominent judge,
in the northern part of Michigan, is a woman of fine
physique and apparently robust health. She is the
mother of four children. With the first three, she
suffered prolonged and agonizing labor, lasting in
the expulsive stage from thirty to fifty hours. Be-
GAIN TO THE CHILD I31
coming pregnant again, her heart was filled with ter-
ror lest she should not survive the ordeal. She was
four months advanced in pregnancy when she be-
came acquainted with the " fruit diet " theory, and
lived accordingly, subsisting almost entirely upon
fruits, rice and vegetables.
Her health became unusually good. The pains,
aches and discomforts she had experienced during
the last months of previous pregnancies were en-
tirely wanting. The time of delivery had arrived.
At five o'clock in the morning she was suddenly
awakened with a severe cramp in her limbs. She
arose and walked the floor without relief. Return-
ing to the bed, she obtained ease by applications of
warmth and friction.
She fell into a quiet sleep, which lasted, perhaps,
half an hour. From this she was awakened by a
labor pain. The doctor was hastily summoned, and
although he lived across the street and came at once,
the child was born before his arrival. This occurred
before seven o'clock, less than two hours from the
time she was awakened with the cramps. She avers
that the effort that expelled the child could not be
called a pain, only a sense of discomfort, or of con-
tinued pressure. Her child is now three years old,
is unusually healthy and robust. The bones were
pliable at birth, but soon solidified. When it is
known that many of the bones of the human body
under any circumstances are not fully ossified until
about the 20th year, it need be no source of uneasi-
I ess that the osseous structure is more than usually
f\iable at birth. In most cases the gain for the
child is as great as for the mother.
9
132 INTERESTING TESTIMONY.
Mrs. K. with her first child had the usual three
months of "morning sickness," which, in her case,
continued the entire day. She suffered fearfully
from bloating and lameness, so much so that she was
unable to leave the house during the last weeks of
gestation. She bathed in warm water only frequently
enough to answer the demands of cleanliness. Her
labor was both severe and prolonged. She had con-
vulsions, and after forty-eight hours of agony the
child was removed with instruments. Her confine-
ment was followed by broken breasts, metritis and
cellulitis, and she was unable to sit up a moment
until the child was five weeks old.
With her second child she bathed freely in cold
water and lived upon the "fruit and rice diet. She
had no morning sickness, no heartburn, no neuralgia,
and scarcely any bloating or lameness. It may be
said that the child was born without any labor as she
had no setisation of pain. She had slept unusually well,
awakened about three o'clock with the "breaking of
the waters," called her husband, who sprang from the
bed, but could not get dressed to call her mother
who was upstairs, before the lusty cry of the little
stranger pressed him into the work of an amateur
accoucheur. She used cold water freely after her
confinement, and had no gathered breasts, no inflam-
mation, or trouble of any kind. Felt able to get
about the house the following day; seemed quite ab-
surd to lie in bed. She speaks of it joyfully as one
of the greatest triumphs of her life, and preaches the
doctrine to all she meets. She could not be con-
vinced that there is any need of childbirth being ac-
companied by severe pain.
EXTRAORDINARY EXPERIENCE. 1 33
The following case came under my notice, and
proves the efficacy of the "fruit diet."
Mrs. L. T. Colburn, living in Eureka, Kansas, is a
woman, short, fleshy, and what is called solid built.
She has five children: with the first four, her labors
were severe and prolonged. Some of them only ter-
minated with instrumental interference. Relays of
neighboring women were worn out in rendering her
the customary aid, and some of her male relatives
had to be pressed into service. During her last preg-
nancy, accidentally, she lived upon fruit and rice,
and her experience was as unlike the former deliver-
ies as night is unlike day. Her husband kept a gro-
cery and provision store, and the family lived over
the store; Mrs. C. was in the grocery frequently.
She had a craving for lemons and oranges, and ate
of them very freely, often consuming half a dozen of
either at one time. Her greediness for these fruits
became the by-word of friends and neighbors.
Previous to this time her eldest son, showing symp-
toms of irritation of the brain, subsisted upon rice.
From this the entire family came to living almost
totally upon rice. As usual, she made very elabor-
ate preparations for her confinement; her physician,
nurse and friends were engaged. At the end of nine
months she was awakened with the "breaking of the
waters." She aroused her husband. He thought he
had better go for a doctor. "Why, there is no use,"
she said, " I have not a particle of pain." However,
he feared there was something wrong, and after
calling her sister, went with all possible haste for
medical aid.
134 MRS. colburn's testimony.
The sister, too, was alarmed, and went to the nex*
door to call a neighbor. Before either returned,
while Mrs. C. was entirely alone, the child was born,
without ike scnsatio7i of pain.
Mrs. C. had talked her experience over many times
with her husband and friends, and was never able to
account for the very marked difference in her con-
finements until at my conversations she heard me ex-
pound the "rice and fruit diet" theory. With tears
streaming from her eyes she recounted her story; she
said: "I am so glad to know that this is not the re-
sult of chance — that it is the truth and philosophy
by which all may profit."
Mrs. C. is a true woman; she told me she was wil-
ling her name and experience should be used for the
benefit of others, and handed me this testimony:
" This is to certify that I know what Dr. Stockham
teaches in regard to 'Fruit Diet' is true. When
pregnant with my last child, I accidentally lived upon
rice and fruit, and my child was born with compara-
tively no pain or sensible effort; could not get a
physician in time, nor did I need one. In four pre-
vious deliveries I had physicians with me over
twenty-four hours, and had prolonged and severe
labors. I can account for the difference only through
the fruit and rice diet.
L. T. COLBURN,
May 2, 1882. Eureka, Kansas.
Food and drink should be chosen that lack in bone
forming materials. The carbonaceous elements of
the grains are not objectionable, while to prevent in-
flammation the free use oi fats and sweets should be
BILL OF FARE. I35
avoided. Of the leguminaand grains: beans, barley,
rye and oats, in order, contain the largest amount of
mineral product; wheat not quite so much; corn, al-
most none. Lean meat, chicken, oysters, clams,
lobster, crab, etc., abound in the mineral salts. All
garden vegetables, save beans, are desirable. Eggs,
wheat and milk can be used moderately.
Feast on fruits freely should be the pregnant
woman's motto. The oxygen of acid fruits unite
with the carbon, hence besides dissolving the phos-
phates tends to prevent inflammation.
That the fruit diet prevents the diseases of preg-
nancy and the sufferings of parturition, is a boon to
every woman, and all knowing this ought to preach it.
The bill of fare below suggests dishes desirable
in pregnancy. Remember always to add fruit. Next
to lemon and oranges, apples, peaches and plums
should be chosen. For supper it is better to take
simply rice or corn gruel, or, if in summer, a dish of
ice cream. It must be understood that this bill of
fare is merely suggestive, being intended to show
that a variety of attractive dishes can be made en-
tirely compatible with the theory.
BREAKFAST FOR EACH DAY OF THE WEEK.
Monday. — Rice balls, baked apples, baked pota-
toes, corn muffins, corn tea.
Tuesday. — Japanese rice, apple sauce, creamed
potato, corn-meal griddle cakes, barley coffee.
Wednesday. — Rice muffins, fresh fruit, rhubarb
on toast, breakfast patties, wheat coffee.
Thursday. — Hominy, stewed fruit, rice omelet,
potato balls, corn muffins, hot milk.
136 BILL OF FARE.
Friday. — Rice griddle cakes, stewed potatoes,
milk toast, sago and cream, barley coffee.
Saturday. — Corn mush, tomato on toast, egg
omelet, graham muffins, hot milk.
Sunday. — Fresh fruit, codfish balls, baked pota-
toes, rice muffins, chocolate, maple syrup.
DINNER FOR EACH DAY OF THE WEEK.
Monday. — Macaroni soup, asparagus on toast,
mashed potatoes, sago-apple pudding or rice snow.
Tuesday. — Noodle soup, raw oysters, potato
puffs, succotash, baked macaroni, cold slaw, baked
rice pudding or apple-tapioca pudding, fruit.
Wednesday. — Tomato soup, fresh fish, mashed
potatoes, beets, baked Indian pudding or rhubarb pie.
Thursday. — Vegetable soup, tomatoes on toast,
creamed potatoes, stewed macaroni, corn, cracked-
wheat pudding or cornstarch blanc-mange, fruit.
Friday. — Rice soup, creamed codfish, green peas,
spinach, boiled potatoes, strawberry shortcake or
fruit blanc-mange.
Saturday. — Potato soup, macaroni and cheese,
vegetable oysters, creamed cabbage, baked rice om-
elet, fruit shortcake, fruit.
Sunday. — Baked chicken, sweet potatoes, celery,
unleavened bread, potato puffs, corn, farina blanc-
mange with jelly, nuts and fruits.
Copy this bill of fare and paste in the kitchen,
where it will be handy to refer to. If one is not ac-
customed to the use of grains it requires some pa-
tience to learn to prepare the food so that it will
prove both nourishing and satisfactory to a delicate
appetite. See chapter on dietetics for recipes.
FOOD TABLE.
137
The following table has been carefully prepared
from Payen's food analysis. It will afford assistance
in selecting appropriate diet, and should be studied
with care.
ANALYSIS OF FOOD.
ARTICLES.
Nitrog-
enous
Carbon-
naceous
Mineral
Salts.
Waste.
Water.
Wheat*
18
13
13
14
12
13
5
30
19
2
18
16
4
77
81
79
80
67
82
57
4
24
3
30
9
100
2
3
3
3
I
2
4
5
I
I
2
I
3
3
5
8
7
4
4
I
Rye*
Barley*
Oats*
Maize*
Buckwheat
14
Rice
Beans
Lean Meat
72
Potatoes
73
White Fish
Eggs
78
52
Milk
Sugar ]
86
Butter f
*A dry state.
cent, water.
In any ordinary state grains contains 1 1 to 18 per
CHAPTER X.
HYGIENE IN PREGNANCY. — EXERCISE.
Motion is a lazv of nature. All animal life is full of
activity. Remaining quietly in closely heated rooms
frequently causes disease in the pregnant woman.
Without exercise, food cannot be assimilated, the
processes of depurition are imperfect, the muscles
lose tone and power, and the nervous system be-
comes prostrated. On the other hand, excessive
labor often proves injurious. Some muscles are
overtaxed and local strains produced. It is difficult
to give directions applicable to all cases. Exercise
should not be carried to actual fatigue. A weariness
that makes the bed feel good zzxi do no harm.
General housework is desirable, avoiding the more
laborious portion, like washing, scrubbing and heavy
lifting. In housework one brings into action nearly
all the muscles of the body, with the exception of
some of the trunk and those used in deep respiration.
Even these would not lack development if clothing
caused no restrictions. In the home work a woman
reaches, stoops, turns, walks, lifts and climbs stairs.
Housekeeping usually interests a woman during
pregnancy if at no other time. She is nest building,
and the home work is a labor of love. She rests in
the quiet of a cozy, retired home. How easy to per-
form the duties that the heart sanctions and impels!
(138)
WOMEN WALK TOO LITTLE. 139
If a woman has no functional derangement, walk-
ing and carriage riding are invaluable. She canmt be
too much in the out-door air. Properly clothed, brisk
walking brings into action nearly every muscle, and
is invigorating to every function. American wofnen,
as a rule, walk too little. Wearing common sense
shoes, having the arms free, the dress short and
loose, one can accustom herself to walking long dis-
tances with positive benefit.
Light gardening can not be too highly recom-
mended. It has the advantage of being out doors.
It gives postures that bring into action the unused
muscles of the trunk and abdomen.
Coming in contact with the earth carries off any
excess of electricity. Besides, the result, either in
a supply of fresh vegetables for the table, or in floral
decorations, are always satisfactory. My own expe-
rience proves that getting out and working in the
ground is a cure-all for ennui, indigestion, torpid
liver, anxiety, despondency; indeed, any slight phy-
sical derangement or mental disturbance.
Possessing no garden to cultivate, lying flat upon
the ground without blanket or pillow answers a good
purpose. More rest can be obtained in five minutes
than in five hours upon lounge or bed in the house.
Although this is contrary to all tradition and teach-
ing, many have proved its value.
What is the object to be gained by exercise in
pregnancy.^ Evidently absorption, nutrition and ex-
cretion. All the functions must be kept to a normal
standard, so that the processes of assimilation and
waste can be perfectly performed.
The involuntary muscles of respiration must be ed-
I40 DEEP BREATHING.
ucated. Those required in parturition must be de-
veloped and strengthened. There are the muscles
of the abdomen, pelvis, perineum and groin, also
some of the muscles of the trunk.
Full and deep breathing is not only necessary to
perfectly oxygenate the blood and by the attendant
motion to promote digestion, but it makes room for
the fetus as well. It expands the wall of the abdo-
men and chest, and strengthens the sustaining power
of the uterus. Is it not possible, too, that it gives a
needed exercise to the fetus, a constnnt gentle mo-
tion promoting the functions necessary to its develop-
ment and growth.''
Breathing for the most part is an involuntary
action, and in children and animals is performed
naturally from the abdomen or flank. " Look upon
that quietly sleeping cat on the rug. Its sole indi-
cation of vitality is the bellows-like motion of its
body in breathing. You must also have observed
that in all domestic animals, at each respiration, an
undulating motion extends quite through the whole
trunk, and that this motion terminates only at the
hindermost limbs. This is natural respiration as it is
performed throughout quadruped existence.
'* Have you a perfectly healthy lady friend.-* Lay
your hand upon her and you will find that her abdo-
men rises and falls in exactly the same way at every
respiratory act; not only so, but that this act is invol-
untarily performed in a more profound manner every
few moments, and that this increased motion operates
particularly upon the lowest portion of the trunk.
" Observe in the same way your own person. If
you are an invalid, you will find this motion dimin-
WOMEN WANT WAIST BREATHING. I4I
ished, perhaps suppressed. When one half breathes
he only half lives."
The lungs or air receptacles are enclosed within
the walls of the chest or thoratic cavity; beneath the
lungs is the great breathing motor, the diaphragm, of
a convex shape when in repose. In all correct inhal-
ation the air filling the lungs flattens the diaphragm.
This must result in the expansion of the body adja-
cent to and surrounding the diaphragm. Natural
breathing should be accomplished without any up-
heaval of the chest or hoisting of the shoulders.
That adults, and especially women, have not this
deep waist breathing is on account of disuse of the
muscles. The young man who is stoop-shouldered,
walks the streets with his hands in his pockets or sits
bent over his desk, soon diminishes the action of
these muscles. The girl, deprived of pockets, may
keep her head and shoulders erect, yet by faulty
dress, compresses and fixes the lower muscles of res-
piration and breathes only with the top of the lungs.
When either man or woman has lost the ability tQ
breathe deeply, a long road must be traveled to edu-
cate the muscles back to natural use.
A man in Colorado had broncorrhoea and occa-
sional lung hemorrhage. Although he could walk
six or seven miles he could not breathe below the
eighth rib. I said: "I did not know a man could
live, and breathe no deeper. By all your hopes of
life, you must learn to breathe. To be sure you can
walk, but the muscles of your legs don't help your
respiration. You must take exercises that develop
the diaphragm and abdominal muscles. Breathe
down, down, and relieve the congestion of the upper
142 THE VOCALIST AND GYMNAST.
lungs." He said: " I have consulted many physicians
the last six years, and why have none told me this
before?" Several months afterward he wrote me
that by simply developing the lower muscles of res-
piration, he had saved funeral expenses.
The gymnast and vocalist take pains to teach deep
breathing, which is simply restoring natural pro-
cesses. The cow will low all day for her lost offspring
without fatigue or hoarsness, because she does it
with expiration, and breathes from her waist or
flanks. The boy who roams the woods.gathers nuts
and hunts squirrels and keeps his hands out of his
pockets, can hallo hours without weariness. He
breathes naturally and uses his voice naturally. He
does only what the singer and orator are taught to
do, because through disuse this has become a lost
art to them.
The blacksmith or stone-cutter desiring to strike a
heavy blow, does it with expiration, and the breath is
driven from the lungs with an ugh! that is almost a
groan. No matter what knotted muscles he may
have upon his arm, if the great converging muscle
below the lungs is not equally strong and powerful,
he can not strike an effective blow. It is said that
out of three hundred recent candidates for the Navy
school, two hundred and twenty-five were rejected
simply because of contracted chests and inefficient
breathing. Manhood, womanhood, endurance and
longevity depend upon lung power, and this is within
the reach of all.
Educate the muscles of respiration. "To
learn deep breathing be as passive as possible; that
is, assume a position in which all the voluntary
MASSAGE. 143
motor muscles are inactive. Lie flat on the back,
perfectly horizontal, without even an elevation of the
head. Shut the mouth and draw the air in through
the channel provided by nature — the nose. As a re-
sult of bad habits, most persons will raise the upper
ribs, yet this expansion will soon yield to a move-
ment of the lower ribs, and this again will gradually
cease by continued practice, as will also every dis-
tension of the ribs. All these faulty movements
will be superseded by a bulging out of the abdomen,
which will b^ proportioned to the amount of air in-
haled." Exhale also through the nose, letting the
breath out slowly. Alternate costal and abdominal
breathing. That is, with one inspiration swell out the
sides; burst the belt; this retracts the abdomen; with
the next bulge out the abdomen, which is done by
pressing the diaphragm down.
Massage is a most desirable mode of exercise,
especially for invalids and delicate people. This is
a thorough manipulation by an attendant of all the
muscles.
Massage is one of the most effective of all mani-
pulations to promote nerve currents and blood cir-
culation. It renders the skin soft and elastic. The
action extends deeply in the body, thus promoting
the activity of all the blood-vessels. It restores the
circulation to the extremities, thus relieving the
plethora of the viscera generally attendant upon
chronic diseases.
The muscle-beater is a convenient and inexpensive
substitute for the hand, in Massage and Swedish
movement cures, as it gives excellent muscular treat-
ment without the aid of an assistant. This little in-
144 MILITARY POSITION.
strument consists of three rubber tubes, fastened
together toward the handle. With this, one can
treat the skin and muscles in any part of the body.
Always in standing and walking, assume the
MILITARY POSITION.
1. Heels in line, and together.
2. Feet turned equally outward, forming an angle
of forty-five degrees.
3. Knees straight.
4. Body square to the front.
5. Chest expanded and advanced, but without
constraint.
6. Arms hung easily to the side. (Swing them
out and let them drop like a pendulum).
7. Shoulders equal height.
8. Shoulder blades flat.
9. Head erect, raised at the crown (as if suspended
by a cord), not tipped in any direction.
ID. Chin slightly drawn in.
11. Form raised to full height.
12. Body poised slightly forward, so that the
weight bears mainly on the ball of the foot.
13. Eyes straight to the front.
14. Whole figure in such a position that aline will
pass through ear, shoulder, hip, knee and ankle.
Get this position before a glass and practice it,
until it can always be maintained. It gives ease,
grace and strength. Teach it to every child.
The following exercises, as well as those in Chap.
V will be found invaluable to equalize the circula-
tion, to aid digestion, as well as to promote natural
breathing and develop the muscles required in par-
VALUABLE EXERCISES. I45
turition. Begin cautiously with the first five, increas-
ing the number and time devoted to them as strength
is gained.
EXERCISES ADAPTED TO GESTATION.
1. Standing position. Carry the weight of the
body as far forward and backward as possible, with-
out lifting heels or bending knees. Count four to
each movement.
2. Same position. Bend body slowly from side to
side. Keep knees straight and feet firm.
3. Hands forward on hips, bend trunk at hips
slowly forward; rise slowly and bend backward,
always keeping the head in position with the body.
4. Inflate the lungs. Touch the shoulders lightly
with the tips of the fingers. Bring the elbows slowly
in front of the body, touching them together. Lift
them as high as possible. Throw elbows back and
up, the fingers still touching shoulders. Bring them
back to commencing position. Expel air. This ex-
ercise elevates the ribs and expands lower part of
chest.
5. Erect position. Inhale. Finger tips to shoul-
ders. Hold the breath to count twenty, then with
clenched fist strike downward and forward. Stop
suddenly as if striking an object. Expel breath
forcibly with the motion. If the motion is de-
cisive the breath will naturally be expelled by the
diaphragm.
6. Kneel on a cushion, knees far apart, stretch
arms upward, parallel with each other by the side of
head, bend trunk slowly backward as far as possible,
remain to count four, return forward as far as possi-
146 EXERCISES IN PREGNANCTT
ble, keeping knees and feet firm. This is one of the
best exercises for strengthening the muscles of the
back and pelvis.
7. Same position, hands clasped on top of head,
move the body from side to side slowly, count four
with each movement and then rest. In the same po-
sition twist the body from right to left.
8. Same position, arms extended horizontally for-
ward, throw them backward in a direct line as far as
possible. This may be practiced quickly or slowly
as if carrying a weight.
9. Reclining upon back, flex the knees and sway
them from side to side.
10. Same position, fiex and thrust the limbs down-
ward alternately.
1 1 . Reclining, face downward, flex knees and sway
feet from right to left,
12. Same position, with the help of an assistant
flex and extend the limbs, using resistance.
13. Same position, rest on elbows and sway shoul-
ders from right to left.
14. Same position, elevate the body slowly, rest-
ing only on toes and elbows.
15. Recline on back and make hand thrusts, with
or without weights, upward, outward, forward and
downward.
In all these exercises it is persistent, patient effort
that gives decided results. One will not see their
effects in one day, nor one week, unless it is in greater
freedom of breath. At first soreness may follow the
use of muscles unaccustomed to exercise. A wet
compress or a warm bath will relieve this. These
exercises should always be taken in a loose wrapper
CLIMBING STAIRS. 14/
and at stated hours. The best time is before the
forenoon bath and before retiring at night.
The following is a heresy but nevertheless is a
truth. A pregnant woman having a comfortable
degree of health, will derive as much benefit by going
up and down stairs as by any other exercise^ providing
she observe the following conditions:
1. Wear a dress that is loose, light and short.
2. Keep the mouth closed.
3. Fill the lungs with air, hold the breath until
the top is reached, and then expel slowly.
4. Maintain the erect position.
Notice what has been accomplished. The dia-
phragm and abdominal muscles have been brought
into action by the deep breath, while the muscles of
the thigh, pelvis, perineum and groin are all engaged
in elevating the body. Each time the thigh is raised,
pressure is made upon the abdominal viscera, which,
if there is no outside counteracting force, are pushed
outward and upward, and with the opposite move-
ment resume their place.
The reason climbing stairs may injure women is,
that with each upward movement, as the bowels are
pushed out, they come in contact with the outside
constricting pressure of corset and bands. Where
can they go? Not being able to go outward they
must go upward, arresting the breath, or downward,
pressing the pelvic viscera upon the perineum. Is
it not unjust to attribute the mischief to the stairs,
when all the time it is the clothing that does the
harm.? Who would ever think of its hurting a boy
to go up stairs, even if he takes three steps at a time,
and goes up three flights without catching his breath?
10
148 KEEP THE MOUTH CLOSED.
Dress a girl as sensibly; neither will it hur', her, for
really the little anatomical difference in th;' c organi-
tation is in the girl's favor.
Going up stairs is the best way to gr': desired
exercise in a short time. A successful, self educated
man of this city said that, when studying, and his
brain became weary and stupid, he left his books and
ran up and down stairs three or four times, accom-
plishing more for himself than by half an hour's
walk, or by gymnastics.
When I was in medical college, come of our lec-
ture rooms were on the fourth floor, aad my own
room was also on the fourth f?.oo'/; both of these
buildings had high ceilings. I uf.ed to pride myself
in starting at the first floor, and running to the top
without stopping. I then wore the "American cos-
tume," and was nearly as free in my dress as a man.
Ever since, stairs have presented nomorediflficulties
to me than a level floor.
A lady told me that with her third child she prac-
ticed going up and down stairs on purpose for the
exercise. The result was the casu.-iit labor and the
best recovery she ever had experknced.
In climbing hills, observe the Scane rules — keep the
month closed, expel slowly through the nose, and stand
erect. Not long since I read a Jong letter, upon run-
ning, written to boys (and v/hy not to girls as well.?)
The writer claimed that the v hole secret of being
able to run and defy all comp's'.titors, was to keep the
mouth closed. Why.? Simply because it forces deep
breathing, and compels the use of the diaphragm. Any
one can prove this. So with any exercise, but espe-
cially in climbing hills or stdi\TS,keep ilte mouth closed.
DELSARTE. I49
Let me urge and emphasize that the pregnant
woman must walk, ride, take gymnastics, climb hills
and stairs, beginning according to her strength, and
increasing the amount from day to day. Upon
strength, power and vigor of muscles, largely de-
pends easy labor.
The Delsarte system of esthetic gymnastics is a
method of physical training leading to the cultiva-
tion of grace and strength. Truthful or natural ex-
pression of one's individuality is the key-note of
Delsarte's thought. This is really a desirable means
of obtaining rest, for it te^cnes giving up all unnec-
essary tension. In this it is quite the opposite of
other methods of gymnastics. This letting go or
giving up, can not be done ali at once. The teachers
of the system give a series of exercises to free the
different parts of the body; first the head, then the
hands and feet, then the muscles of the waist and
chest. Deep breathing aids in freeing the vital
organs. All forces of the body are thus allowed a
natural and graceful expression.
Annie Payson Call, in her tract on the Regenera-
tion of the Body, says: "The soul can be regener-
ated and the body remain disorderly; the body can
be trained to a fine physical life and action and the
soul remain unregenerate; but certainly the fulness
of life, both for this world and the next, must come
from a more perfect harmony of the material body
with the soul."
CHAPTER XI.
CHASTITY IN THE MARRIAGE RELATION.
" So dear to heaven is saintly chastity,
That when a soul is found sincerely so,
A thousand liveried angels lackey her."
— Milton.
Many years ago during a visit to my cousin, a
young married woman called with her four months
old baby — a thin-necked, bloodless, blue looking
child. After she left, cousin observed, " Is it not a
shame that young people have so little knowledge.'
That poor child is suffering because the parents too
frequently practice the privileges accorded in the
marriage relation. The milk is deprived of its vital-
izing and nutritious elements." So little of such
matters had come to my knowledge that all she
meant was not comprehended. From what my in-
stincts had taught me, and what had been seen in
animal life, I had no thought that this relation ever
was frequent, especially during child-bearing.
To this day the picture of that wan, pale baby is
impressed upon my memory, its very emaciation
making an eloquent plea for the rights of children.
Soon after this, I heard H. C. Wright's lecture upon
"Marriage; its Duties and Responsibilities." He
urged men and women to transmit the best of them-
selves to their children, and to be certain that off-
(150)
children's rights. 151
spring were not deprived of vitality and strength by
lustful indulgence. For the sake of the improvement
and progress of posterity, the life of married people
must be temperate. After this I read his "Marriage
and Parentage," and "Unwelcome Child," with in-
creased interest in this subject.
At that time the need of such lectures and books
was not understood. In long years since, the agoniz-
ing cries of heart-broken, suffering women, the ter-
rible death rate of little children have proven that
in the marriage relation there is such a perversion
of nature, such grievous wrongs committed that one
needs a pen of fire to express the living, burning
thoughts, and carry the conviction of truth into the
very lives of men and women. Unless by some
divine miracle, the eloquence of a thousand inspired
pens cannot stay the floodtide of wrong and injustice
now done to women and children under the cover
of the marriage law.
Among animals, except in rare instance under
domestication, the female admits the male in sexual
embrace, only for procreation. Among some savage
tribes this same rule has few exceptions. Is it not
true that civilized people, boasting of their moral and
religious codes, hold, teach and practice that sexual
wnion shall occur in season and out of season, aver-
ring this to be the fulfillment of nature's law.-*
Briefly consider different views upon this subject.
First. Those who hold that sexual intercourse is
a "physical necessity" to man but not to woman.
Second. Those who believe the act is a love relation,
mutually demanded and enjoyed by both sexes, and
serving other purposes besides that of procreation.
I5» POPULAR THEORIES.
Third. Those who claim the relation should never
be entered into save for procreation.
Physicians and physiologists teach, and most men
and women believe:
That sexual union is a necessity to man, while it is
not to woman.
That there is implanted in his being demands that
cannot be restrained without injury to health.
That restraint is followed by absorption of the
elements of generation, producing effects not unlike
the absorption of a virulent foreign element.
That woman naturally has not so much passion as
man, has not so much secretion, also has an outlet
in menstruation, consequently has not the same
demands nor the same injury if not gratified.
Are these claims based upon truth.? What are the
facts from which to infer what men and women
naturally are.?
When woman otily is taught that virtue is the
brightest jewel in her crown, when the popular v.er-
dict is that womanliness and modesty are synonyms
for repression, when she lives in fear of maternity,
and believes restraint on her part prevents vitality of
life germs, when, too, erroneous habits pervert every
function, how can we tell what is natural for her.?
Then, on the other hand, when man is taught that
virtue is not synonymous with manliness, when the
passions are stimulated by unnatural habits of living,
by impure conversation, thoughts, books and prac-
tices, can we say this strength of passion is purely
natural and healthy.? ,
A. E. Newton says: "They who .have never care*
fully noted the effects of alcoholic stimulants, of
SOCIAL EVIL. ^yy
coffee, oysters, eggs, spices and animal food, as well
as they who find pleasure in filthy conversationa.
can not surely, with any justness, charge nature witft
the exuberance of their amatory desires."
We teach the girl repression, the boy expression, not
simply by word and book, but the lessons are graven
into their very being by all the traditions, prejudices
and customs of society.
What are some of the results of this theory.^
Notably, in the first place, we have what is called
the "social evil." Women, licensed by men, make a
business of prostitution, selling their bodies that this
demand — this necessity — of the male shall be supplied.
In visiting these women, men simply yield to this
supposed necessity of their nature; consequently
commit no violation of law.
■ Women not having the same demands, by entering
this life, or even permitting the act once, violate the
laws of their being; according to the social codes,
perpetrate the greatest crime in the calendar! They
become outcasts. If they fill their lives with noble
and philanthropic deeds, this one sin is so foul and
rank, is such an offense, they have little hope of
remission, even from a just and all-loving God.
Can the fact that men are upheld, their crime even
condoned, while women, as partners in this terrible
evil, are not only ostracised, but irretrievably lost,
be explained in any other way.-'
Witness the effect of this same theory in the mar-
riage relation! The man who has been accustomed
to gratify his passions promiscuously, seeks and
marries a lovely, virtuous girl. She is not supposed
to have iieeds in this direction. Neither has she
154 UNWELCOME CHILD.
learned that her body is her own and her soul is her
Maker's. She gives up all ownership of herself to
her husband, and what is the difference between her
life and the life of the public woman? She is sold to
one man, and is not half so well paid. Is it too strong
language to say she is the one prostitute taking the
place, for the man, of many, and not like her, having
choice of time or conditions.? In consequence she
not only suffers physically, but feels disgraced and
outraged to the depths of her soul.
She is liable to a chance maternity and the tmwel-
covu child is deprived of physical vigor, and may be
endowed with lustful passions and morbid appetites,
if he does not indeed curse his own existence.
At the c?.ose of one of my health conversations after
speaking upon this subject, a lady tremblingly, but
touchingly, gave her experience. She said: "Ladies,
when I was married two years I was the mother of a
puny, sickly baby; it had required incessant care and
watching to keep it alive. When it was only seven
months old, to my surprise, astonishment and horror,
I felt qiiickenijigy and for the first time, I knew I was
pregnant again. I wasabased,humiliated. The sense of
degradation that filled my soul, cannot be described.
What had been done.-* The babe that was born and
the babe that was unborn were robbed of their just
inheritance. Remorsefully and tearfully I told my
mother. She says: 'Why child, you should not
grieve; don't you know your children are legitimate!''
My whole being arose in protest; I stamped my foot
and almost screamed; 'Although my husband is the
father of my children, they are not legitimate. No
man-made laws, nor priestly rites can ever make an
i-ESSON FOR HUSBANDS. 155
act legmmate that deprives innocent children of tneir
right to life and health.' With sobs and moans, reac-
tion came and I fainted in her arms. What was the
sequel.'* Two years later both of these children after
a brief existence lay in the ' city of the dead,' and
until my husband and I learned tJie law we could not
have children to live."
Parties holding the second theory claim:
That coition is a love act.
That it should never occur except when there is
mutual participation on the part of both man and
woman, and should be governed and guarded so as
to control the creative power.
Thus this act is the emblem of love; by it there is
a mutual exchange of subtle elements which gives
health and vigor, and more firmly cements the union.
That if the lives of married people accorded to
this theory, the demand of the man would be no
more frequent than that of the woman.
That the husband cannot sustain this relation sat-
isfactorily and without injury to himself unless there
is reciprocation on the part of the wife.
That under this mutual relation there is no loss to
either party, but a mutual compensation.
This theory has its arguments and certainly is
more humane than the first.
A woman once consulted me who was the mother
of five children, all born within ten years. These
were puny, scrofulous, nervous, and irritable. She
herself was a fit subject for doctors and drugs.
Every organ in her body seemed diseased, and every
function perverted. She was dragging out a miser-
able existence. Like other physicians, I had pre-
IS6 TOUCHING EXPERIENCE.
scribed In vain for her many maladies. One day she
chanced to inquire how she could safely prevent
conception. This led me to ask how great was the
danger. She said: "Unless my husband is absent
from home, few nights have been exempt since we
were married, except it may be three or four imme-
diately after confinement."
"And yet your husband loves you.''"
"O, yes, he is kind and provides for his family.
Perhaps I might love him but for this. While now
— (will God forgive mei*) — I detest, I loathe him, and
if I knew how to support myself and children,
would leave him."
"Can you talk with him upon this subject?"
"I think I can."
"Then there is hope, for many women cannot do
that. Tell him I will give you treatment to improve
your health, and if he will wait until you can respond,
take time for the act, have it ejitirely mutual from first
to last, the demand will not come so frequently.'
"Do you think so.''"
"The experience of many proves the truth of this
statement."
Hopefully she went home, and in six months I
had the satisfaction of knowing my patient was
restored to health, and a single coition in a month
gave the husband more satisfaction than the many
had done previously, that the creative power was
under control, and that my lady could proudly say
"I love," where previously she said "I hate."
If husbands will .listen, a few simple instructions
will appeal to their commo7i sense, and none can
imagine the gain to themselves, to their wives, and
THEORY OF CONTINENCE. 1 57
children and their children's children. Then it may
not be said of the babes that their " Death borders
on their birth, and their cradle stands in the grave."
The third theoiy, that the sexual relation should
never be sustained, save for procreation, has many
adherents. They teach that there are other uses for
the procreative element than the generation of off-
spring — far better uses than its waste in momentary
pleasure. This element, when retained in the sys-
tem, the mental powers being properly directed, is
in some way absorbed and diffused throughout the
whole organism, replacing waste, and imparting a
peculiar vivifying influence. It is taken up by the
brain and may be coined into new thoughts — per^
haps new inventions — grand conceptions of the true,
the beautiful, the useful, or into fresh emotions of
joy and impulses of kindness, and blessings to all
around. It is a procreation on the mental and spir-
itual planes instead of the physical. It is Just as
really a part of the generative function as is the beget-
ting of physical offspring.
They claim that men eminent for grand achieve-
ments in fields of science, philosophy, invention,
religion and philanthropy, have been men whose
lives accorded to this theory, referring us as illus-
trious examples to Plato, NeAvton, Lamb, our own
Irving and Whittier, and always remembering the
humble Nazarene
They also claim that to woman belongs the "crea-
tive power," that she must choose when a new life
shall be evolved, and only by adhering to this law
can she be protected in the highest function of her
being — the function of maternity. Mrs. Chandler in
158 A SCRIPTURE LESSON.
"Motherhood," says: "Every mother from the hour
when the new life commences, is overshadowed by
the Most High. Could she understand her needs
and powers, and secure to herself respect due to her
sacred office, and, free from all polluting intrusion
upon herself, bathe her spirit in the influxes which
the life within attracts, very rapidly would disappear
the loathesome deformities, the discordant spirits
now blotting the fair proportions of humanity."
She claims that in the Scripture statement in
reference to the parents of the child Jesus, that
Joseph "knew not" Mary from the hour when the
announcement of the new life was made untif. the
birth of the child, is involved a deeper and more
important meaning than the Christian world or the
medical profession have discovered. Thus this "undis-
turbed maternity, which was essential to the ushering
in of the Prince of Peace, is equally in all cases a vital
and indisputable necessity for the improvement of
humanity. Motherhood should be a shrine unpol-
luted by selfishness. O woman! This would be thy
recompense for all the sufferings and agonies which
pertain to physical womanhood and motherhood."
It is encouraging for those who believe this
thought to know that not only woman but men
standing high in learning and literature espouse and
teach it. "The Science of a New Life," by Dr.
Cowan, gives what he terms the law of continence
as a central thought. It is full of practical lessons
for married people, and has had a large sale.
"The Better Way," a pamphlet, by A. E. Newton,
teaches that only through continent lives can we
hope for progress.
CONTINENCE TAUGHT BY MEN. 1 59
*^Plain Facts'' by Dr. Kellogg, has had an immense
sale. He, too, teaches the same thought.
Note, all these books are written by nien — not by
women, with some fancied wrongs to redress; but by
men strongly in sympathy with the needs of the race.
They claim that a better and higher generation can
only be attained through continent lives. This is a
subject demanding the serious consideration, at least,
of scientists, philosophers and philanthropists.
If the law of continence is not the law to govern
one's entire life, it is natural and reasonable that the
mother should be exempt from the sexual relation
during gestation. The husband should ever be ready
to comfort and cheer with his sympathy. He should
bear in mind that at this time his wife and child
need the conservation of all forces, and consequently
he should " observe all laws that will let reason reign
and passion served
The observance of the law of continence will do
much to palliate the many nervous symptoms of
pregnancy. I have known women so sensitive during
gestation that even a touch or a kiss from the hus-
band caused nausea and other distressing symptoms.
"The sexual relation at this time exhausts the
mother and impairs the vitality of the child, induc-
ing in its constitution precocious sexual development.
The mind should be free from the subject, and every
circumstance that has a tendency to promote desire
should be studiously avoided. For this reason sep-
arate beds and even sleeping rooms for husband
and wife are to be recommended."
It is worth investigating, whether the cause of suf-
fering in pregnancy and much of the pain at partu-
l60 PRACTICAL HINTS.
rition may not also be removed by the practice o»
continence during gestation.
Cannot those in charge of hospitals and charitable
institutions make a study of the subject? A collec-
tion of statistics would help to establish or refute
this theory. The influence of continence on off-
spring invites the serious thought of all who desire
the progress of purity. Thoughtful parents will
question whether by living during the mother's
gestation on the low plane of physical love, they are
not implanting in their child the seeds of sensuality.
Keeping their lives in the higher spiritual love they
may have offspring to whom a life of purity and
self-control will be natural.
" In brief, the law seems to be that, such is the in-
timate connection between the mother and the
embryo, the exercise of any faculty of her mind or
soul, or of any organ of her brain or body, stimulates
and develops in proportionate degree the corre-
sponding faculty or organ in the incipient child."
Of what use is it to teach the young lessons of
purity and morality, when by prenatal culture, they
have graven in their very lives lessons of prostitu-
tion.' Many men violate this law of reproduction
through ignorance. Were they taught the results,
and how to live lives of self-control, many would
gladly accept the lesson.
To live continent lives, avoid food containing
aphrodisiac stimulants, such as coffee, eggs, oysters,
and animal food. Omit the evening meal; for the pur-
pose desired this stands paramount to all other means.
Let the life be temperate in every respect, and with a
strong will the victory can be won. Remember that
ENCOURAGING TESTIMONY. l6l
it is the action of the mind chiefly, that stimulates
excessive seminal secretion. The husband being the
devoted lover, with similar untiring, delicate atten-
tions, can attain the same self-control he practiced
during courtship. The wife will more surely retain
her health and youthful charms in bearing welcome
children. Women will rejoice in a glad maternity,
and a higher, nobler and more God-like posterity will
people the earth.
A few years since I read a paper entitled, " The
Hygiene of Pregnancy," before a Medical Associa-
tion, In it were sentiments similar to the above. It
was read hesitatingly, anticipating only adverse crit-
icism from the men composing that body. Previous
to the reading of my paper, the members had taken
but little interest in the convention except to pro-
mulgate pet theories. The weather was warm, and
groups were sitting on the piazza, smoking cigars,
indifferent to subjects under discussion. The reading
had not proceeded far, however, when cigars were
thrown away, and the entire convention were listen-
ers. Judge of my surprise when the thoughts ex-
pressed received a long and hearty applause. Most
of those men used tobacco, some drank beer, and all
ate animal food. They were not the class of men
from whom recognition of such radical sentiments
would be expected.
Let the justness of this subject be properly pre-
sented to them, and most men will be convinced of
its truth. Men naturally reverence the maternal in
woman, and if taught that continence serves the best
interests of motherhood and posterity, will cherfully
accord their lives with it.
l62 REVERENCE FOR MATERNITY.
A principal of a high school in Iowa was • married
man many years before he knew that the Ms.xual re-
lation was ever sustained during pregnancv. When
he learned it, he asserted that his whole wduI was
filled with shame and disgust that his sex had no bet-
ter knowledge of their protective duties relating to
maternity.
Those desiring the best reproduction of themselves
should learn:
That motherhood is the central fact of human life.
That the first right of a child is to be well born.
That every mother should be set apart during
pregnancy for the ante-natal culture of her child.
That control of appetite is the first step in Human
culture.
That no man should become a father who can not
and will not observe the demands of temperance in
all things for the benefit of his child.
CHAPTER XII.
VENTILATION.— REST.
The pregnant woman breathes for two. While pure
air is desirable for all persons under every condition,
it is doubly so for her. Nothing is more essential
to the healthful nourishment of the fetus than that
the blood be thoroughly oxygenated. Otherwise the
child may be weak and feeble, and liable to disease.
Everywhere^ in railroad cars, streets, shops, public
halls and dwelling houses, there is foul air — air that
is loaded wiih exhalations from the lungs, emanations
from the body, and is often vitiated by tobacco and
alcohol. Architects, builders and occupants pay but
little attention to ventilation. The most important
purpose of a building is evidently to keep the heat
in during the winter, and keep it out in the summer.
With every breath a person exhales quite a large
proportion of carbonic gas, which is a deadly poison,
and at the same time inhales the life-giving oxygen,
constantly exhausting the supply. Yet the great fear
of drafts, as well as need of economizing heat, causes
most persons to breathe the same air over and over
again. Gases that are inimical to health and life are
constantly inhaled. If one breathed deeply and only
pure air it would atone for violation of many other
physiological laws. The proof of this is seen in the
effects of a hunter's or a pioneer's life.
U (163)
164 VENTILATION OF BEDROOMS.
The following from the Lajicet gives some practi*
cal ideas upon the ventilation of bedrooms :
" If a man were deliberately to shut himself for
some six or eight hours daily in a stuffy room, with
closed doors and windows (the doors not being
open even to change the air during the period of
\ incarceration) and were then to complain of headache
' and debility, he would justly be told that his own
want of intelligent foresight was the cause of his suf-
fering. Nevertheless, the great mass of people do
this every night of their lives, with no thought of
their imprudence.
" There are few bedrooms in which it is perfectly
safe to pass the night without something more than
ordinary precautions to secure an inflow of fresh air.
Every sleeping apartment should, of course, have a
fireplace with an open chimney, and in cold weathei
it is well if the grate contains a small fire, at least
enough to create an upward current to carry off the
vitiated air of the room. In all such cases, however,
when a fire is used, it is necessary to see that the air
drawn into the room comes from the outside of the
house.
" Summer and winter, with or without the use of
fires, it is well to have a free ingress for pure air.
This should be the ventilator's first concern. Foul
air will find an exit if pure air is admitted in suffi-
cient quantity, but it is not certain that pure air will
not also be drawn away. So far as sleeping rooms
are concerned it is wise to let in the air from without
The aim must be to accomplish the object without
causing a great fall of temperature. The windows
may be drawn down an inch or two at the top with
OPEN FIREPLACES. I65
advantage, and a fold of muslin will form a ' ventila-
tor' to take off the feeling of draft. This with an
open fireplace will generally suffice, and produce no
unpleasant consequences, even when tne weather is
cold."
While the open fireplace, 'tis true, gives splendid
ventilation, at the present price of fuel it is a luxury
within the reach of few. Yet, taking into considera-
tion how effectually it "slams the door on the doc-
tor's nose," it is an economical investment.
Recently there have been open stoves, constructed
on a new principle, that are very desirable. They
are cheerful and decorative in appearance, equal to
other stoves for cleanliness, economical of heat, and
what is so needful in every dwelling, furnish a con-
stant change of air — are in themselves ventilators.
One building a new house can easily have ventila-
tion by making a dry well of good dimensions in the
yard and filling it with coarse charcoal. There
should be an air-shaft leading to it and one from it
into the house. The air from it must go directly to
the furnace. It should be so constructed that water
v/ill drip slowly through the charcoal. In this way
the moisture and charcoal purify the outside air,
freeing it from dust and smoke, while the pit cools
it in the summer, and modifies the temperature in
the winter. Better air is obtained than if let in by
windows and doors.
The house should have flues for the escape of im-
pure gases. Common grates will answer the purpose.
An abundance of pure air constantly supplied.
In regard to fresh air in sleeping rooms, Dr. James
H. Jackson says: "There appears to be a want of a
l66 WARM AIR IN BEDROOMS.
clear understanding of the difference between the
terms cold air and pure air, and many persons do not
seem to comprehend that the air of a room may be
both pure and warm. They seem not to know that
the temperature does not affect the purity of the air
so long as there is opportunity for proper circula-
tion. Pure air is not necessarily cold, nor is cold air
always pure.
In order to have good ventilation, provision should
always be made for a circulation of air. It is not
sufficient to provide an entrance for outside air; exit
through an opposite door or window or flue should
also be secured. A good way to do this is to let
down a window two or three inches at the top, and
the air thus let in becomes somewhat warmed by the
heat which rises. Here then you have warm fresh
air. Now bad air, being loaded with carbonic acid
gas, sinks to the bottom of the room. Some way
must therefore be provided for its escape. A tran-
som near the bottom of the door would answer the
purpose; an open fireplace furnishes an outlet for
impure air, or if both these are wanting, the door may
be left slightly ajar, or a simple or inexpensive ven-
tilator may be made by fitting into the stove-pipe,
above its damper, another piece of pipe that shall be
cut off within two inches of the floor; this pipe also
to be provided with a damper which can be opened
at will. A very effective draft is thus created near the
floor, which takes all foul air up into the chimney.
"I do not approve, on the contrary I condemn the
habit of sleeping, even in the coldest weather, in a
small room, windows closed, weather strips on the
doors and sashes, and every possible device used to
COLD AIR NOT FRESH AIR. 1^
U»ep out the outside air. In such a room one must
necessarily respire the same air many times, and the
fact that it is cold does not make it the less injurious.
ISJature throws off by the breathing process certain
poisonous elements which to re-breathe and re-absorb
is most pernicious. No one who is not robust should
sleep in a room so cold that the windows and doors
must all be closed to keep warm. A much more
healthful way is to have the temperature of the sleep-
ing room the same as that of the living room; under
no circumstances do I deem it advisable for an invalid
to sleep in a room that can not have pure, warm air.
" Remember that the important point is circulation,
and that this may be had without letting in a great
volume of cold air."
A small amount of outside air can be let into a
room by raising the window four or five inches and
fitting a board at the bottom. There is a space left
between the sashes that allows some air to enter.
This, however, is not sufficient in a small bedroom,
unless for the coldest weather. " The only objection
to a draft is, that the draft is generally not strong
enough. An influx of fresh air into a room is a ray
of light into darkness, a messenger of Vishnu visiting
an abode of the lost." Even the weak and enfeebled
can accustom themselves to plenty of pure air, and
also to drafts.
To test the condition of a sleeping room, leave it
closed in the morning, go into the fresh air for ten or
fifteen minutes, return to the room, and if the air
seems less pure than the outside air the ventilation is
imperfect. The nose is a sentinel to warn us of danger.
It should be educated to tell the condition of the
I68 LIME AND CHARCOAL.
air we breathe. What a benefit to mankind if some
one would invent a gauge to determine the amount
of impurities in the air, as heat is tested by a ther-
mometer. Would it not on many occasions give us
startling revelations."*
To aid in improving the air of a house, and especi-
ally of a sleeping room, we have a safe, efficient and
economical means in the use of unslaked lime and
charcoal. A small basket of these should be placed
in every invalid's room, or where children sleep,
for the purpose of absorbing the carbonic acid gas ol
the lungs, and the effluvium of the human body.
The discovery of this simple method is attributed
to Dr. Bonizzardi, of Italy. He claims, "That peo-
ple die much more rapidly through the deleterious
effects of miasma and carbonic acid gas than by the
want of oxygen in the air. To prove his theory, he
put three fowls on a perfectly even floor, under three
glass cases, and placed in the case containing the
first bird nothing but the fowl, in the second one a
piece of unslaked lime, while the third contained
some pieces of charcoal. In half an hour after the
birds were confined he examined them, and found
that the bird having neither lime nor charcoal was
dead, that the one in the second case containing the
unslaked lime was barely alive, while the bird in the
case containing charcoal was quite active, and
showed no sign of suffering.
"The first fowl, having neither lime to absorb the
carbonic acid gas of the lungs, nor charcoal to col-
lect on its surface the effluvium of the surrounding
air, died of blood poisoning, produced solely by the
action of the carbonic acid expelled from the lungs.
A DAILY SIESTA. Vct^
"The fowl that was supplied with the lime was
only quite ill, because the lime had removed one of
the causes of death by absorbing the carbonic acid
gas; while the bird confined in the case containitt^
the charcoal was only slightly indisposed or ilil,
because the charcoal absorbed all the exhalations oli
the lungs and body.
"These experiments prove that people die far
more quickly from the deleterious action of bodily
exhalations than from any deficiency of oxgen in the
air. The moral of these experiments is: That a small
basket of charcoal should be placed in the room of
every invalid, in order that it may absorb the car-
bonic acid gas floating in the air, and thus render
the atmosphere purer and more wholesome.**
REST.
A daily siesta ought to be taken by the pregnant
woman. Even if she feels well and is not accus-
tomed to rest during the day, it would be far better
for her to take it regularly. She should plan for it
as for any other duty, and will gain by the ability to
accomplish more.
Near noon is the best time for resting; let it follow
the bath. She is then refreshed for her dinner and
afternoon occupations. This habit cannot be too
religiously observed. If she rests better alone, she
should go by herself, and never be disturbed. Some
people can sleep better to lie down where others are
talking or reading. The hum of voices quiets them
by diverting their own thoughts. I knew one mother
that could only get a nap in the daytime, even if she
had been deprived of much sleep, by lying down in
170 RECAPITULATION.
the room where her children were playing. Nothing
they could do, except to quarrel, would disturb her.
They could laugh, sing, scream and jump — she would
sleep soundly, but if one wrangling word passed
between them she was instantly aroused.
Do not acquire the habit of sleeping in a chair,
more speedy restoration is given by lying flat upon
the back, without a pillow.
RECAPITULATION.
To give a woman the greatest immunity from suf-
fering during pregnancy, prepare her for a safe and
comparatively easy delivery, and insure a speedy
recovery, all hygienic conditions must be observed.
The dress must give:
1. Freedom of movements;
2. No pressure upon any part of the body;
3. No more weight than is essential for warmth,
and both weight and warmth evenly distributed.
These requirements necessitate looseness, light-
ness and warmth, which can be obtained from the
union under-clothes, a princess skirt and dress, with
a shoe that allows full development and use of the
foot. While decoration and elegance are desirable,
they should not sacrifice comfort and convenience.
Let the diet be light, plain and nutritious.
Avoid fats and sweets, relying mainly upon fruits
and grains that contain little of the mineral salts.
By this diet bilious and inflammatory conditions are
overcome, the development of bone in the fetus
lessened, and muscles necessary in labor nourished
and strengthened.
Exercise should be sufficient and of such a char-
A REVIEW LESSON. I7I
acter as will bring into action gently every muscle
of the body; but must particularly develop the mus-
cles of the trunk, abdomen and groin, that are spe-
cially called into action in labor. Exercise, taken
faithfully and systematically, more than any other
means assists assimilative processes and stimulates
the organs of excretion to healthy action.
Bathing must be freque; t and regular. Unless in
special conditions the best results are obtained from
tepid or cold bathing which invigorates the system,
and overcomes nervousness. The sitz-bath is the
best therapeutic and hygienic measure within the
reach of the pregnant woman.
Therefore, to establish conditions which will over-
come many previous infractions of law, dress natur-
ally and physiologically; live much of the time oiUof
doors; have abundance of fresh air in the house; let
exercise \iQ sufficient a,nd systematic; pursue a diet of
fridt, rice and vegetables; regular rest must be faith-
fully taken; abstain from the sexual relation. To
those who will commit themselves to this course of
life, patiently and persistently carrying it out through
the period of gestation, the possibilities of attaining
a healthy, natural, painless parturition will be re-
markably increased.
If the first experiment should not result in a pain-
less labor, it, without doubt, will prove the begin-
ning of sound health. Persisted in through years of
married life, the ultimate result will be more and
more closely approximated, while there will be less
danger of post partum diseases; and better and more
vigorous children will be produced.
Then pregnancy by every true woman will be
172 MRS. STANTON'S TESTIMONY.
desired, and instead of being a period of disease,
suffering and direful forebodings, will become a
period of health, exalted pleasure and holiest antic-
ipations. Motherhood will be deemed the choicest
of earth's blessings; women will rejoice in a glad
maternity, and for any self-denial will be compen-
sated by healthy, happy, buoyant, grateful children.
Elizabeth Cady Stanton, in a lecture to ladies,
thus strongly states her views regarding maternity
and painless parturition: "We must educate our
daughters to think that motherhood is grand, and
that God never cursed it. That the curse, if it be
one, may be rolled ofT, as man has rolled away that
of labor; as it has been rolled from the descendants
of Ham. My mission among women is to preach
this new gospel. If you suffer, it is not because you
are cursed of God, but because you violate his laws.
What an incubus it would take from woman could
she be educated to know that the pains of maternity
are no curse upon her kind. We know that among
the Indians the squaws do not suffer in childbirth.
They will step aside from the ranks, even on the
march, and return in a short time bearing with them
the new-born child. What an absurdity, then, to
suppose that only enlightened Christian women are
cursed.
" But one word of fact is worth a volume of philos-
ophy; let me give you some of my own experience.
I am the mother of seven children. My girlhood
was spent mostly in the open air. I early imbibed
the idea that a girl is just as good as a boy, and I car-
ried it out. I would walk five miles before breakfast,
or ride ten on horseback. After I was married, I
FACTS VERSUS PHILOSOPHY. 1/3
wore my clothes sensibly, Their weight hung en-
tirely on my shoulders. I never compressed my
body out of its natural shape. When my first four
children were born, I suffered very little. I then
made up my mind that it was totally unnecessary for
me to suffer at all; so I dressed lightly, walked every
day, lived as much as possible in the open air, ate no
condiments, and took proper care of myself. The
flight before the birth of the child I walked three
miles. The child was born without a particle of pain.
I bathed it and dressed it myself, and it weighed ten
and one-half pounds. The same day I dined with
the family. Everybody said I would surely die, but
I never had a moment's inconvenience from it. I
know this is not being delicate and refined, but if
you would be vigorous and healthy, in spite of the
diseases of your ancestors, and your own previous
disregard of nature's laws, try it."
Every woman can not attain to as perfect health
as Mrs. Stanton, for all have not as good conditions
of heredity, nor did all learn early that "A girl is as
good as a boy." Mothers in earnest for the best
good of their children, will by constant purpose and
deliberate effort, approximate the high standard she
established, and emulate her example in using the
means to enhance desired results.
** For life is not to live, but to be well."
CHAPTER XIIL
PARTURITION.
The honr arrives, the moment wished and feared;
The child is born by many a pang endured!
And now the mother's ear has caught his cry;
Ob! grant the cherub to her asking eye!
Labor is effected by dilatation of the cervix uteri
and contraction of the uterine and abdominal muscles.
This dilatation is the first stage. In the second,
expulsive efforts occur, causing the advance and birth
of the child. The action of the uterus in expelling
the fetus is analagous to that of the rectum in expel-
ling its contents. In each case the abdominal muscles
powerfully co-operate with the peristaltic action of
the organ. Uterine contractions, once established,
continue intermittently until the contents are ex-
pelled. These contractions are usually attended and
recognized by pain. They are called labor pains.
It is well established by physiologists that the suf-
fering attendant upon labor is abnormal, and only a
result of the violation of nature's laws; that by a
more or less thorough compliance with those laws,
most women can approximate to a condition in which
there shall be no suffering in childbirth.
A few days preceding labor, there is usually a
muco-sanguineous discharge from the vagina. This
is called the show. It indicates dilatation of the cer<
RATIONALE OF LABOR. 1/$
vix and relaxation of the vagina. It is often accom-
panied by malaise and restlessness, and in some by-
headache and loss of appetite,
In 96 per cent, of all cases, the head of the child is
the presenting part. At first the long diameter of
the head is in the oblique diameter of the pelvis; as
it passes the pelvic brim, it turns so as to lie across
from back to front, the chin pressing upon the
breast, and the crown of the head advancing. The
first pains are grinding, scattered and irregular, felt
mostly in the anterior portion of the pelvis and groin.
With these, dilatation of the os progresses, which is
often accompanied by severe sufferings, especially
when diseased conditions exist. Afterward the
pains are in the abdomen. As the head advances
there is great suffering in back, hips and groin, with
a disposition to bear down.
This disposition need never be urged by attendant,
nor forced by the patient. Old ladies often say,
"Bear down! make an effort!" supposing that this
will facilitate labor. The fact is that these attempts
to assist nature are retarding instead of helpful, and
are often the cause of accidents. Nature indicates
all effort essential to progress.
The bag of waters consists of the membranes which
enclose the fetus and liquor-amnii.
Protruding through the os, when dilatation is
effected, it precedes the head, prepares the way for
it, and lessens the liability of contusion of the soft
parts. These membranes usually rupture with an
expulsive effort, before the close of the labor. The
uterus then contracts firmly on the body of the
child, and labor advances rapidly to completion. In
176 GENERAL REQUIREMENTS.
rapid labor, however, the bag is sometimes expelled
entire with the child.
The physician requires the assistance of but one
attendant besides the husband. This should be an
educated nurse or a friend, who can command her-
self in emergencies. The old time custom of having
a neighborhood party on the occasion of an increase
of the family, has happily gone out of date.
When this custom was in vogue both patient and
physician were often seriously annoyed by the crowd
of neighbors who thronged the house. Many times
the grand " set out" for the table was so expensive
as to take the whole month's salary of the working
man, while perhaps the "doctor's bill" remained long
unpaid.
Conversation should be cheery and foreign to the
occasion. Obscene anecdotes and direful childbirth
experiences should be avoided. During the entire
process of parturition, the patient should have the
advantage of pleasant, comfortable and sanitive sur
roundings. Her mind should be free from care ana
anxiety. The best in the house should be appropri-
ated to her use. Her room should be light and airy.
Every necessity and convenience should be in
readiness for the occasion. Provide two yards of
rubber cloth for protecting the bed, a fountain syr-
inge, a hot water bottle, safety pins, antiseptic
absorbent cotton, glycerine, arnica, ammonia, carbolic
and castile soap, calenduline, olive oil, and cosmoline.
Also have an abundant supply of soft rags. They
should be large and clean. Remove the seams and
buttons. Old sheets torn in quarters or pillow slips
are the most desirable.
GENERAL PREPARATIONS. 1/7
Make the bed as if one were going to sleep in it.
Place the rubber cloth over the under sheet. Cover
it with an old quilt or comfort that will wash easily.
Have the bed set out from the wall so that both sides
can be used. Prepare the side for the patient that
will enable the physician to use the right hand.
Let the patient wear the garments she desires to
have on after confinement, having care to protect
them by folding back smoothly, and fastening a sheet
loosely about the waist. After labor begins, she
should take only liquid food. The bladder should
be relieved frequently. If the bowels have not been
moved within twenty-four hours, a copious enema
of warm water should be taken.
Until the last stage, the patient can assume any
position affording the most comfort. Usually, she is
inclined to change frequently, sitting, lying, walking
and even kneeling. When expulsive efforts occur,
she ordinarily prefers to recline upon her back, with
knees flexed and hips elevated. At this time, she
naturally pushes with her feet, and pulls with her
hands. A padded box should be firmly fixed at the
foot of the bed for the feet. She can grasp the hand
of an assistant, or have some reliable mechanical
contrivance for her hands. The simplest is a strip
of new muslin, ten inches wide, put around the foot
of the bed, and tied, leaving it the desired length for
a good purchase. In a prolonged labor, the obstetric
harness is the most valuable assistance. This is a
padded belt for the back, with straps extending to
the knees and feet. From the knees are counter
straps, with handles for the hands. With this simple
contrivance, a physician requires less assistance.
I78i PLAIN DIRECTIONS.
Supporting tJie perinaun is not only absolutely unnec'
essary, but also apt to be exceedingly injurious. Med-
dlesome midwifery is always to be deprecated. A
natural labor needs no manual local interference.
Although many authors and teachers recommend
support to the perineum in the last stages, yet more
ruptures may be attributed to this practice than to
leaving it entirely untouched. A Canadian physician
asserts that he has attended 1,700 women in confine-
ment without giving support to the perineum, and
yet in no case did rupture occur.
When the head is born receive it in the hand and
support it until the shoulders are expelled. If the
next contraction does not bring them, put a finger in
the axilla of the child, and make slight traction. The
whole body will soon be born. Pass both hands
under the child and lay it as far from the mother as
possible without stretching the cord. Place it upon
the right side, shoulders and head slightly elevated.
Wipe any mucus there may be from mouth and nos-
trils. Cover baby with a warm, soft flannel. Make
the mother comfortable. Change her position,
straighten the bed, put dry cloths to her, give her a
drink, etc., leaving the infant until the pulsation has
entirely ceased in the cord. This will require from ten
minutes to half an hour.
Usually, as the child is ushered into the world, it
sets up a lusty cry, indicating that respiration is
established. Crying is not essential, as some authors
claim, and the prompt covering usually causes it to
desist. If it does not breathe at once, a little brisk
spatting on the breast and thigh may establish res-
piration. If this is not effectual, dash cold water in
TYING OF CORD USELESS. !79
the face and on the chest. Still failing, artificial res-
piration must be established. To do this, close the
nostrils with two fingers, blow into the mouth, and
then expel the air from the lungs by gentle pressure
upon the chest. Continue this as long as any hope
of life remains.
Sever the cord when pulsation has entirely ceased in it.
Use a dull pair of scissors, cutting about two inches
from the child's navel. Following these directions,
no tying is essential. This method has its advantages.
By tying, a small amount of blood is retained in
vessels peculiar to fetal life. This blood by pressure
or irritation may prevent perfect closure of the fora-
men ovale, and be a cause of hemorrhage. Besides,
it must be absorbed in the system, causing jaundice
and aphtha, so common in young babes. Prejudices
exist against adopting this treatment, as it is con-
trary to that usually adopted.
I first heard of this manner of treating the cord in
1870. It was so clearly explained that I was con-
vinced that leaving the cord untied would result in
great gain to the child. Still, my education and habit
had been to the contrary, and my prejudices pre-
vented my venturing upon the new method. A few
years after this I met a German physician who had
not tied a cord in eighteen years. He said: "Don't
be afraid; your babies will do better, and there is
less danger of losing them." I tested it and proved
to my own satisfaction that it is the best method.
One has only to recollect to wait until the pulsation
in the cord ceases entirely, and sever as before stated.
By no means wash and dress the baby as soon as it is
oorn. Consider the marvelous change that has taken
12
l8o BIRTH OF PLACENTA.
place in all its functions. Respiration is establishedp
and the blood, instead of going to the placenta for
oxygenation, goes to the lungs; the stomach and all
the organs of digestion and elimination are brought
into action; the skin, also, with its innumerable per-
spiratory ducts, begins its work. Give nature time
to establish these processes before the system is
taxed by being washed and dressed. An Indian
pappoose might be plunged into water at once with-
out detriment, but no white baby of this country has
sufficient vitality to safely undergo this shock. Rub
the baby all over with olive oil, cover warmly, anc^
leave it to rest and sleep.
While the baby is resting the mother demand?
especial attention. Contractions of the uterus wiU
soon be renewed to expel the placenta. Usually
these do not recur for half an hour, and it may be
two hours before the after-birth is expelled. Should
there be no hemorrhage and the walls of the uterus
contract, there is no cause for uneasiness.
For expelling the placenta contractions can be in-
duced by laying upon the bowels cloths wrung from
cold water, or by manipulating the abdomen after
dipping the hands in cold water. Also, the patient
may blow into her closed hand, or give a slight
cough. If there is hemorrhage, the vein of the um-
bilical cord should be injected with cold water. This,
in many cases, removes a retained placenta. This
valuable suggestion is a fact unknown to many prac-
titioners. The placenta does not adhere as often as
some suppose. If attached there is seldom danger
from delay in removal, unless there is hemorrhage.
After it is expelled it should be burned or buried.
BANDAGE UNNECESSARY. l8l
The mother must be bathed in tepid water, spong-
/:g carefully her back, abdomen, thighs and peri-
neum. Lay a cloth to the vulva wrung from a lotion
of arnica, one tablespoonful to a quart of water. If
there is soreness in the pelvic region a compress wet
in the same lotion can be worn.
T/ie parturient woman requires no bandage. If a
compress is needed a towel can be pinned around to
keep it in place. Also, if there is discomfort from
undue enlargement and relaxation of the abdomen,
a banage applied loosely will give relief. Otherwise
no bandage is essential. The common belief that it
restores a woman's form is a mistake. She returns
to her former size better without than with it. If
worn at all snug it is likely to cause inflammation
that will produce bloating. It also presses the uterus
down in the pelvis and in the relaxed condition of
all the parts may cause prolapsus uteri. The fre-
quency with which prolapsus occurs may justly be
attributed to the uunatural pressure thus exerted.
A parturient woman makes a more speedy and ex-
cellent recovery without the bandage.
After the bath, change the soiled quilts and cloths
for fresh ones. Apply a large cloth over the arnica
cloth at the vulva, make the bed look tidy, and leave
the patient to rest. The house should be made quiet
and every means used to encourage complete repose.
If it is night, let the attendants retire and darken
the room, the nurse remaining within call.
In case of thirst let her have cold or hot water,
weak tea or thin gruel, as she feels inclined. Ordi-
narily she needs no remedies. Nature simply de-
mands rest. Only a few years since a woman was
1 82 NATURE DEMANDS REST.
not allowed to go to sleep until she had taken a bowl
of panada and the inevitable dose of castor oil. One
woman told me she dreaded the castor oil more than
having the baby. It is unnecessary and likely to
produce harm. For a few days torpidity of the
bowels is natural, and if forced to action, inflamma-
tion and piles are likely to result. Surgeons have
long been familiar with this same state of the bowels
in other cases. Constipation is the natural sequence
of amputation or fractures. The system rallies to
meet one great demand and temporary torpidity of
the bowels may be expected. Do not be influenced
to take any drug. Simply rest. Surely at no time
in one's life is rest so sweet.
The long months of anticipation, doubt and endur-
ance are over, the hour long feared has culminated
in the bestowment of a gift which an angel might
receive with rapture. A babe, the object of woman's
profoundest and most sacred passion has been given
her for her very own, to nourish, guide, develop and
instruct, of which even death cannot rob her. A
solemn joy beyond words fills her soul, which none
should needlessly disturb.
He comes— she clasps him; to her bosom pressed,
He drinks the balm of life, and drops to rest.
CHAPTER XIV.
DYSTOCIA.
In difficult labor a physician's skill and knowl-
edge is imperatively demanded. Yet a few practical
hints for emergencies may be advantageous.
Presence of mind, with the knowledge given in
the preceding chapter, will enable even an inexperi-
enced person, in the chance absence of the doctor,
to conduct a case of natural labor satisfactorily.
Prolonged and difficult labor may occur when one
has not had the benefit of the "fruit diet" and other
hygienic measures herein recommended, or who on
account of disease and deformity, has not been able
to accomplish desired results. In malformations of
the pelvis, in face or shoulder presentations, placenta
previa, etc., surgical interference will be required.
Muscular contractions may be inefficient or the os
slow to dilate from rigidity. Caustic treatment, so
prevalent for ulceration, destroys the natural elastic-
ity of the cervix. Severe and prolonged suffering
without dilatation is often the consequence. (See
Chap. XXI.) Few women realize the injury done
by the prevalent use of caustic treatment. One lady
told me that she had been treated by eleven physi-
cians, every one using similar measures. At last in
despair she "gave up doctoring," and by hygienic
methods had attained to a comfortable degree of
(183)
1 84
HOT SITZ BATH
health. The time must come when people will pro
test against the burning of mucous surfaces as the}
now protest against blistering and bleeding, which
only a few years since were universal.
The head advancing may meet with resistance from
dryness, heat, and rigidity of external parts.
The Jiot sitz-batJi is the best temporary means to
overcome rigidity of both os and vulva, and to relieve
pains that are neuralgic in character. Seat the patient
in a sitz-bath tub, containing very hot water, her feet
also in a hot foot bath. Envelop her with blankets
and increase the temperature of the water by pour-
ing in hot water as she can bear it. Let her remain
until profuse perspiration is induced. Dry her under
the blankets and let her lie down without removing
them. Sometimes she can remain in the bath an
hour with advantage, though a shorter time is usually
sufficient. The pains entirely or partially subside,
and she seldom fails to fall into a refreshing sleep.
Local relaxation will be accomplished, the pains
assume an effective character, and a speedy termina-
tion of the case can be expected. To accomplish
the desired result, the bath must be hot, not warm,
and continued until perspiration is induced. When
prolonged labor is caused by rigidity of the soft
parts, good and speedy results are sure to follow.
The following cases prove the value of the hot bath:
Mrs. N engaged my services for her seventh
confinement, stating that I might expect a tedious
case, as in all previous labors the skill of physicians
had been baffled. She had lingered in labor from 48
to 96 hours, attended with convulsions and other dis-
tressing symptoms; several times had been delivered
REMARKABLE CASE. 185
with instruments. Summons came for me on a bright
June morning at 5 o'clock. She had had irregular
pains all night, was very nervous and had great
dread of her sufferings, ha/ing no hope of relie* for
at least two days. I fc;und no dilatation, and no
real contractions were taking place.
I gave her remedies, hoping to arrest the sujffer-
ing until relaxation could be produced, and left her.
At 10 o'::lock I returned, armed with one of Dickens'
novels, for a two days' pastime. Found the pains
increased in severity, attended with rigidity of os,
still no dilatation, but pressure of the uterus upward.
Although a woman of great self-control, she could
not repress the most piercing screams with each
pain. A hot sitz-bath was administered, increasing
the temperature until most copious perspiration was
induced, after which, enveloping her in blankets, I
bade her sleep, while I sat down to Dickens.
She obeyed orders, slept soundly, having contrac-
tions every fifteen minutes, when she would rouse
and exclaim, "What relief!" "Heaven surely can
be no sweeter than this rest!" "What a blissful
change!" I would say, "Don't talk, don't bear
down, sleep all you can," and still read Dickens.
About one o'clock expulsive pains came on. Exam-
ination revealed full dilatation of cervix, and head
advancing. At 3:30 P. M. the child was born, no
spasms, no instruments, and no medicine had been
required. This is only one of many that I have seen
relieved in the same way, and always find the bath
effectual where there is no deformity of the pelvis.
I am confident that this hot bath, if generally used,
would save thousands of instrumeptal deliveries.
l86 EFFECTS OF THE HOT BATH.
Mrs. N. was a very grateful patient, and believes
that the same means would have given relief in
former labors, as the first symptoms were the same.
The only unpleasant sequel in the case was, the
novel remained unfinished.
Mrs. L ,primapara, aged thirty-three, a severe,
tedious labor, with slow dilatation. Gave the hot
bath with the happiest effect; patient, nurse, and all
but the husband went to sleep. Contractions con-
tinued, accompanied by profuse perspiration, but for
two hours did not awaken the patient. Expulsive
efforts finally setting in, labor was completed in one
hour. It was, however, almost immediately followed
by violent hemorrhage inducing fainting. Examina-
tion revealed the placenta attached, the fibers so
closely adhering to the uterus that the least attempt
at removal caused the greatest suffering. The pla-
centa was grasped and partially brought down into
the cervix. By this interference the hemorrhage was
arrested, and the placenta allowed to remain for about
twelve hours, when it was expelled without any
assistance. The patient made a rapid recovery.
At first I feared that the excessive relaxation from
the bath caused the flowing, but became convinced
that it was only exposure of the bloodvessels from
the partial adhesion of the placenta. Its removal
from the body of the womb allowed the organ to
contract upon the exposed bloodvessels, and conse-
quently the hemorrhage ceased.
The hot bath is also effectual for flagging pains that
are annoying and worrying, and "seem to do no
good." In such cases the patient takes a long rest
after the bath, and real contractions and expulsive
EMMENAGOGUES DEPRECATED. 187
efforts may not occur for hours or even days. This
gives nature time to overcome all obstacles, and the
final termination is more satisfactory.
Ergot and cohosh are administered by physi-
cians of all schools for insufficient contractions. These
cause violent uterine contractions and great expulsive
efforts. If the soft parts are relaxed, labor will be
facilitated. If not, great injury may be done. Rup-
ture of the uterus and laceration of the perineum are
frequently the consequence. The effects after con-
finement are liable to be even more disastrous.
Among these are violent hemorrhage, puerperal peri-
tonitis which runs a rapid course, cellulitis, milk leg,
nervous chills, gathered breasts, etc. These drugs
are well understood to be poisonous to any one in a
normal state. Surely no reason can be given why a
parturient woman may hope to escape their dire
effects. Without doubt they lay the foundation for
many chronic uterine ailments. Please mark the fol-
lowing, which are only a few of the toxicological
symptoms of these drugs taken by a person in health.
Ergot induces rigors, pinched, pale countenance,
extreme anxiety, great fear of death, violent head-
ache, stupor, loss of voluntary motion, spasmodic
jerking, sudden paralysis, debility and fainting, cold,
dry, shriveled skin, knotted veins, tongue cold, livid
and pale, voiniti?ig violent, enlargement and pain in
the liver, watery diarrhea, swelling of the limbs with
cold surface, violent, cramp-like, intermittent pains in
the pelvis and groin, hemorrhage, congestion of the
womb, local gangrene.
MacrotiSy or black cohosh, causes weak but rapid
pulse, pains m the back with debility, rheumatic
l88 ERGOT AND COHOSH.
pains in the muscles, limbs seem powerless, drawing
pains with trembling, great restlesness, headache
with soreness of the eyes and of the base of the
brain, heat and pain in the top of the head, dimnesg
of vision with objects floating before the eyes, prick-
ling of the skin, cold extremities, bruised feeling all
over, dizziness, loss of memory, great nervousness
resulting in hysteria, vomiting, leucorrhea, hemor»
rhage, etc. Both of these drugs are violent in thejf
action and poisonous in the doses usually adminis-
tered in labor.
It is rare that one recovers entirely from theii
effects. They cause uterine inflammation, ulceration,
displacement, etc., that are accompanied by amauro-
sis, loss of memory, headache and many nervous
symptoms which are ignorantly attributed to the
"last confinement." Rupture of the cervix, for
which ladies so often must be treated in these days, is
frequently the result of rapid forced labor by the use
of these drugs. As you value good health, never take
these remedies in poisonous doses. If uterine con-
tractions can not be increased by the hot bath or cold
compresses placed on the abdomen, an attenuated
dose of the drug will be followed with as speedy re-
sults as a cup full of the infusion or a drachm of fluid
extract, and the toxicological effect will be avoided.
Protest positively and persistently against
taking a poisonous dose of ergot or black cohosh.
Better wait for nature than suffer the effects that
are sure to follow.
Instruments will rarely be called in use if women
learn the laws of life and obey them. Malformed
and diseased as women are, instruments are resorted
INSTRUMENTS. I89
to far more freqently than necessary. There is a
feeling in the profession that dextrous instrumental
delivery often saves women suffering, and consequent
nervous prostrations. Most women, on the contrary,
have a horror of forceps, and this, with the tempo-
rarily increased suffering aggravates rather than les-
sens the prostration. Remember, the physician has
selfish temptations for instrumental interference. It
entitles him to an extra fee, it saves him time, and
possibly gives him eclat as an accoucheur.
In most cases where instruments are now used,
speedy results could be obtained from the hot sitz-
bath, without danger of subsequent difficulties. Oc-
casionally a case may require instrumeiits, but the
experience of many successful physicians, especially
the women in the profession, proves that if there is
careful preparatory treatment, artificial delivery need
seldom be called in requisition. In several hundred
obstetric cases in my own practice, instruments were
never required where the previous preparation of
the patient had been under my own diiection.
Women have it in their power to |>roduce such
healthful conditions that obstetrical inst .. ments shall
be known only in tradition.
CHAPTER XV.
POST PARTUM DISEASES.
" Mysterious to all thought,
A mother's prime of bliss.
When to her eager lips is brought
Her infant's thrilling kiss."
Proper bathing and diet are as essential after
as before confinement. At least once a day the
patient requires a bath. Ordinarily use tepid water.
Sponge and dry a portion of the body at a time,
keeping the balance protected. If there is heat in
the back, bathe it several times a day. Should the
patient be nervous and uneasy, try dry hand friction.
A compress, too, is often serviceable, worn across the
back for two or three hours, followed by bathing and
rubbing. The breasts should be bathed frequently,
and the colder the water the better. This prevents
sensitiveness to cold, and may consequently prevent
gathered breasts. Three to five days after confine-
ment the patient can be put into a sitz-bath with
benefit. Let the temperature of the water be from
85° to 95°. This bath is restful, cleansing and resto-
rative, and is really as beneficial after as beiore
parturition. A woman can often sit in a bath for a
few moments when the same time spent in a chair
would prove injurious.
Change the linen of bed and person daily, and the
(190)
BATHING — FOOD. I9I
napkins every three or four hours. Keep the room
light and well ventilated. The temperature of the
room should never exceed 70°. A few years since
not a ray of light or a breath of fresh air was allowed
in the parturient room, and if the woman was to
touch cold water, it was deemed sure death. In
some parts of this country, within twenty years, th-e
bed even was not changed for nine days after con-
finement. With frequent bathing and a constant
supply of fresh air the patient will not be sensitive
to cold, and inflammation and other post partum dis-
eases will in consequence be rare.
The vagina must be syringed at least twice a day
with water in which there are a few drops of carbolic
acid. Use a fountain syringe, and have the patient
recline over a bed pan. Thus the parts will be kept
cleansed, and carbolic acid prevents septic poisoning.
If the bowels do not move naturally by the third or
fourth day, give an enema, one quart of tepid water.
The regimen advised in this book having been fol-
lowed, one will rarely be troubled with constipation.
Beware of cathartics. Most of them have a specific
action upon the uterus as well as upon the bowels,
and will do harm. This is notably the case with
aloes and podophyllum.
The food must be simple in character and easy of
digestion, especially until after the milk is estab-
lished. Bran or graham gruel is the very best food
the first day or two. Having been withheld from
the diet during pregnancy, on account of containing
the phosphates which have a tendency to harden the
bones, it should now be taken for that very purpose.
Many are prejudiced against graham gruel, yet it
v/
192 GRAHAM GRUEL.
has been proven that most women relish it better
than anything else after labor. In the Home of the
Friendless, Leavenworth, Kan., are many cases of
confinement every year. Almost universally the in-
mates are prejudiced against graham in any form,
and rarely taste it before confinement. A former
matron had been a nurse in a Water Cure. Inva-
riably she brought a bowl of graham gruel to the
mother a few hours after delivery. She never had
one express any repugnance to it. On the contrary,
they would say, "That tastes good;" "That goes
right to the spot;" "Can any one eat too much of
anything that is so good.''" and similar expressions,
showing that there was an actual relish for the dish.
The gruel should be made thin at first, and without
cream or milk. After a few days it can be made
thick like mush, and eaten with fruit or cream and
sugar. New milk, wheatlet, cracked wheat, barley,
oatmeal, graham gems, fruit, etc., can be added to
the diet as desired.
There is no need of milk fever. Women have been
led to expect more or less constitutional disturbance
accompanying the advent of the milk. With the
bathing and diet recommended above, even if she has
not had the best conditions during pregnancy, one
hardly realizes any change in the system at that time.
When patients were fed on brandy panada, wine
whey, strong tea, and beef broth, were kept in unven-
tilated rooms, deprived of water externally and inter-
nally, and besides were poisoned with drugs, it is no
wonder they had milk fever, and were liable to other
post partum diseases.
The child should be placed to the breast several
MAMMARY ABSCESS. I93
times a day, even if there seems to be no milk. The
act of nursing stimulates secretion, prevents engorge-
ment, and from sympathetic relation causes uterine
contractions. When the breasts become filled and
are knotty and tender, bathe them in hot water and
have them drawn. If the child does not empty them
sufificiently, the nurse or some member of the family
should do it. This is better than a breast pump,
and can be easily done by remembering to lap the
tongue around the nipple until it meets the upper lip.
The old tradition used to be that a woman, on no
account, must leave her bed before the ninth day. No
matter how well she felt, the nine days must be
spent in bed. There is no positive rule. One must
be guided by her strength. Probably few women
can expect to be about before four or five days.
The cases where they can leave their beds earlier
than that are exceptional.
Mammary abscess, or inflammation of the breast,
often called "gathered" or "bealed" breast, is usually
ushered in with a chill, succeeded by feverish symp-
toms. Darting pains are felt in the breast, which, as
the disease progresses, extend to the arm-pits. The
breasts swell, become hard and tender to the touch —
even nursing is painful. If pus forms, the skin be-
comes dark red, the enlarged breast softens, accom-
panied by a throbbing pain. The patient is feverish,
nervous, irritable, has irregular chills, night sweats,
debility, etc.
Hot fomentations should be used promptly and
thoroughly at the first threatening symptoms. Wring
a cloth out of an infusion of phytolacca, and keep hot
by applying the water bottle containing a small
194 INSUFFICIENT MILK.
quantity of very hot water. If too much water is
put into the bottle it is made uncomfortably heavy.
If the fresh root cannot be obtained, use the fluid
extract, ten drops to a pint of water. Keep the breast
well drawn and persevere in the hot applications;
suppuration can usually be prevented. Farmers know
the value of phytolacca, and use it witn their new
milch cows in case of caked bag.
Aconite should be taken internally if there is alter-
nate chill and fever, with thirst and throbbing pulse,
one drop of tincture in ten tablespoons of water, a
spoonful every half hour.
Bryonia, 2d. — Constant aching in the bones and
soreness of the flesh. Dose, six pellets every hour.
Use only liquid food until the disease is surely
arrested. Keep quiet and have plenty of fresh air.
Unless the suppuration is very deep the breast
should never be lanced.
For excoriated nipples, bathe in a warm borax
lotion, two grains to one cup of soft water; after
which apply carbolated cosmoline or calenduline. If
the base of the nipple is deeply cracked, before using
the cosmoline, wash with a solution of nitrate of sil-
ver, one grain to two ounces of water. Protect with
a shield while the child is nursing. None of the
above preparations are harmful to the child, except
the nitrate of silver, and the cases where this is
needed are rare.
For INSUFFICIENT MILK, drink freely of new warm
milk. Have it brought to the bed, and drink at least
a pint. Take it one or two hours before breakfast.
If milk cannot be obtained possessing animal warmth,
take new milk, add one-tenth water, and heat over a
MILK DIET BEST. IQS
water bath tc a temperature of 120 degrees. Cheese
makers testify that the addition of water prevents
rennet from coagulating the casein. In the stomach
also, warm water prevents the pepsin from curdling
the milk. If it is as warm as the stomach, and does
not coagulate, it will be taken up by the absorbents
and conveyed directly to the blood, without going
through the process of digestion. Mothers who have
a great aversion to milk, learn to cultivate a decided
relish for it for the sake of the child.
Dr. R. P. Harris, in speaking of milk as a diet for
delicate mothers, says: "Those who with ordinary
food invariably fail to nurse longer than a few weeks,
are capable by this diet of becoming not only good
nurses, but also of gaining flesh while secreting the
milk in abundance. When a delicate mother of
eighty-six pounds' weight, who had failed after a
month with each of three infants, is enabled by it to
nurse a child eighteen months, and gain at the same
time nineteen pounds, the diet must be an effective
one." The article next best for promoting the secre-
tion of milk is cocoa or chocolate, prepared with
plenty of milk.
Every form of malt and spirituous liquors should by
all means be avoided. They derange the nervous and
digestive systems of both mother and babe. Cus-
tom, happily, has to a large extent done away with
the idea thaf'nursing women must have ale or beer."
To those who still maintain this view, I would rec-
ommend the study of the question, whether the
help expected is at all commensurate with the danger
incurred of a pernicious appetite being cultivated in
both mother and child.
18
196 EXCESSIVE FLOW OF MILK.
Good digestion is usually all that is essential for
an abundant flow of milk. The food should be simple
but nutritious. Depend upon grains and fruits
mainly, and by no means exclude the bran from the
wheat flour. The saline elements in the bran not
only stimulate digestion, but excite the secretion of
milk as well. Try the experiment of feeding an
Alderney cow upon fine flour, excluding the bran.
By the lack of milk you will prove that the bran
contains elements pre-eminently stimulating to lac-
teal secretions.
Oysters eaten raw or slightly cooked are said to
increase the flow of milk. Honey, too, often proves
invaluable. With bread and gems, instead of the
carbonaceous butter, eat honey. It stimulates all
the secretions. It is evident that foods rich in phos-
phates are the best to increase lactiferous flow.
Therefore, study well the food table in Chapter IX, ancf
partake of foods which were avoided in pregnancy.
In the first days after confinement, if the milk is
slow to secrete, apply bruised castor bean leaves.
For excessive flow of milk, once or twice a day
use hot fomentations upon the breast, and apply
cosmoline, in which there is a trace of camphor.
Avoid salt and liquid food. Wear folds of cotton
batting over the breast. In either insufficient or
excessive flow of milk, guard against pressure of
clothing. It is absolutely essential that the blood
should circulate freely to and from the breasts.
(No one thing more frequently causes atrophied
breasts in any woman than the pressure of corsets
and padding ordinarily worn. It is not unusual for
a fine development of the breast to result from the
AFTER PAINS— LOCHIA. I97
removal of all pressure, accompanied by bathing
daily with cold water, and following the bath by
friction. Should this fail, an apparatus on the prin-
ciple of dry-cupping is used. This seldom fails of
giving the desired results.)
After pains often accompany the contraction of
the uterus. It is not true that women never have
them with the first child and always have them sub-
sequently. Like most of the sufferings of maternity,
they are the effect of abnormal conditions. Women,
who, in two or three confinements have suffered days
with after pains, threatened with spasms and not
relieved except by chloroform, have by previous
preparation recovered without a twinge of pain.
After pains usually occur periodically every ten or
fifteen minutes. They are cramp-like pains accom-
panied by a feeling as if pricked by many needles.
They make one very impatient and nervous, depriv-
ing her of needed rest. They are often the result of
poisonous doses of ergot taken during labor. The
hot water bag or hot fotnentations will usually give
relief. Must be very hot and kept hot, consequently
dry heat is to be preferred, Administering a hot
sitz-bath is also excellent treatment. If relief is not
obtained, and the physician is not within call, inhale
ether moderately. Do not take it internally.
The lochia is the flow from the vagina which oc-
curs after confinement. At first it has the appearance
of fresh blood, then becomes lighter in color, and
finally is only a glairy mucus. This varies greatly
in amount and duration. As a rule the healthier the
woman, and more natural the labor, the less the flow.
Cases have come to my knowledge where there was
198 HEAT FOR HEMORRHAGE.
no sanguineous flow, and the patient made a rapid
recovery. It is said that healthy squaws have no
flow of blood with menstruation, or after delivery.
If there is no constitutional disturbance, there need
be no anxiety about a scanty flow. If caused by a
chill, fever or inflammation, etc., prompt attention
will be required, according to accompanying symp-
toms.
Metrorrhagia, or profuse flow, often requires
treatment before medical aid can be secured. Hot
fomentations, hot sitz-bath and hot vaginal injections
are the very best applications. Recently the medical
profession recognize that heat is better than cold,
to arrest hemorrhage. In surgery, hot water is
applied to exposed bleeding vessels. Cases are
known where hot vaginal injections have instantly
arrested bleeding that had resisted applications of
ice, styptics and the tampon.
A lady in Michigan, during the menopause, was
taken suddenly with violent hemorrhage. For seven
days and nights everything was tried in vain to
arrest the bleeding. She became cold and clammy,
had frequent fainting spells, and death seemed im-
minent. An old nurse came to take care of her over
night. She set aside the physician's potions and ap-
plications. She filled the big wood stove with bricks,
and as fast as they were heated wrapped them in wet
cloths and put them about the patient, who thus ob-
tained her first sleep for days. The hot bricks were
kept to her four days and nights. There was no
return of hemorrhage. She made a rapid recovery.
If there are clots, retained placenta or membranes,
or any foreign growth present in the uterus, they
CHILD-BED FEVER. I99
must be removed by surgical interference, before
uterine contractions can be effected and maintained.
Pelvic peritonitis, puerperal or child-bed
FEVER. "There is a word of fear that I shall pro-
nounce when I utter the name of Puerperal Fever;
for there is almost no acute disease that is more ter-
rible than this. The small pox itself, which reduces
the fairest form of humanity to a mass of breathing
corruption, can not be looked upon with greater
dread. Child-bed fever, like an inexorable Atropos,
cuts the thread of life for those to whom Clotho and
Lachesis would give the longest span.
"There is something so touching in the death of a
woman who has recently given birth to a child;
something so mournful in the disappointment of
cherished hopes; something so pitiful in the deserted
condition of the new-born, helpless creature, forever
deprived of those tender cares and caresses necessary
to it, that the hardest heart is not found insensible
to the catastrophe. It is a sort of desecration for an
accouchee to die."
Thus feelingly writes Prof. Meigs, of Philadelphia,
of this disease, the very thoughts of which strike
terror to the stoutest heart. This disease is an in-
flammation of the uterus and its peritoneal covering,
and often extends to the entire membrane lining the
abdominal cavity, and possibly involves all the pelvic
viscera.
The attack ordinarily commences from the third
to the ninth day after delivery. Previous to this,
the patient has seemed all right, when suddenly,
often apparently without cause, she is taken with a
chill. Rigors more or less severe extend up and
2CX) SYMPTOMS OF PERITONITIS.
down the spinal column. Clothing does not seem to
impart any warmth. Almost simultaneously with
the chill, periodical pains will be felt in the womb,
and if there is not much constitutional disturbance,
may be taken for after pains. Usually, however, they
are accompanied by great soreness and tenderness
in the pelvis; the abdomen soon bloats and becomes
tympanitic; the legs are flexed to relieve the tension;
the weight of the clothes, even, cannot be borne.
The milk dries up, the lochia cease, there is head-
ache, great thirst, increase of temperature, a quick,
wiry or bounding pulse.
All of these appalling symptoms are accompanied
by great anxiety of mind and distressed expression
of countenance. A dark circle forms about the eyes,
which are sunken, the nose pinched, and the lips
drawn, and the face is flushed or very pale. The
course of this dread disease is extremely rapid. "It
will not unfrequently happen that she shall die within
thirty-six or forty-eight hours from the onset of the
malady, and some cases terminate fatally even in
eight hours. They are to be cured promptly or not
at all. Such a malady as this hurries with hot and
furious haste to a turn, beyond which there is not
and cannot be any useful therapia."
Perhaps I shall be condemned for picturing to the
sensitive imagination of the pregnant woman the
possible dangers of this dread disease. Her attend-
ants will look out for it, and she should not be led to
anticipate it. For two reasons, however, she should
be forewarned:
First, that she may at once smmnon her medical
attendant.
PREVENTIVE TREATMENT. 201
Second, that the causes of this disease being known,
she may avoid them.
Do not delay one moment in calling your physician.
Having the symptoms indicated, procrastination is
suicidal. The doctor would better come ten times
for a nervous chill or after-pains, if by chance the
mistake should be made, than that you should fail
once to notify him of an attack of puerperal fever.
Under improved methods of treatment this disease
does not terminate fatally as frequently as formerly.
The causes of this disease are:
First. The inflammatory condition of the system
before delivery. If \}c\.q fruit diet has obviated this,
there is nothing to fear.
Second. The use of ergot in confinement. Puer-
peral fever following poisoning by ergot is very
rapid in its course, and soon terminates in gangrene.
If this drug were banished from practice, child-bed
fever would be rare.
Third. Contusions and bruises from instruments
not handled dextrously cause inflammation.
Fourth. The use of cathartics, tonics, stimulants
and other drugs after delivery.
It is within the power of every woman that she shall
not be subject to these causes of puerperal fever.
Some late teachers claim that all child-bed fever
is pysemia, blood-poisoning, and can not be avoided.
Why is it, then, that it is notably absent in those
who have led a hygienic life.? Why is it that those
physicians who insist on preparatory treatment sel-
dom meet with it in their practice.? Others claim
that the disease is contagious, and that the poison
can be conveyed by physician and nurse.
202 TREATMENT OF PERITONITIS.
Dr. W. S. Playfair, of London, who gives to thia
disease the name of Puerperal Septicaemia, says:
" The whole tendency of recent investigations is daily
rendering it more and more certain that obstetricians
have been led into error jy the special violence and
intensity of the disease, and that they have errone-
ously considered it to be something special to the
puerperal state, instead of recognizing in it a form
of septic disease, practically identical with that
which is familiar to surgeons under the name of
pyaemia or septicaemia.
"If this view be correct, the term 'puerperal fever,*
conveying the idea of a fever such as typhus or
typhoid, must be acknowledged to be misleading,
and one that should be discarded as only tending to
confusion.
"According to this theory, the so-called puerperal
fever is produced by the absorption of septic matter
into the system. It is not essential that the poison
should be peculiar or specific; for, just as in surgical
pyaemia, any decomposing organic mattei either
originating within the generative organs of the
patient herself, or coming from without, may set up
this morbid action."
The TREATMENT OF PERITONITIS should be prompt
and thorough. Sweat the patient as soon as possible.
Place several steaming bricks or ears of boiled corn
about her. Frequent hot enemas by rectum and
vagina are beneficial. If gangrene threatens, it is
often arrested by the application of a yeast and
charcoal poultice. Take any good lively yeast, make
a sponge of corn meal and graham flour, equal parts.
When light, add two tablespoons of charcoal to one
VALUE OF HYGIENE. ^^
pint, put on to a large cloth covered with thin gauze
and lay over the entire abdomen. Must be changed
frequently, not allowing it to get dry. An injection
should be given per rectum every three hours, oif
weak carbolic soapsuds.
The nutriment should be diluted hot milk, or oat-
meal gruel. Small pieces of ice will be grateful.
When these directions are followed faithfully,
accompanied by appropriate remedies, most cases
can be saved.
Even if it should be proven that this disease is sep-
tic poisoning, a healthy tone of the organs resists the
absorption of the foreign agent,which proves a poison.
In twenty years of general practice I never had a
fatal case outside of the hospital. My experience
emphasizes what I have stated, that the hygienic
life and habits, and the avoidance of drugs and instru-
ments go far toward preventing child-bed fever.
CHAPTER XVI.
INFANTS. — THEIR CARE AT BIRTH AND DURING
EARLY INFANCY.
"What am I ?
An infant crying in the night;
An infant crying for the light;
And with no language but a cry,"
— Tennyson.
What more helpless and dependent than the new-
born infant ! A human soul, with all the possibilities
of life, yet of itself it cannot supply its slightest need.
No wonder that so great a wealth of maternal love
is called forth in administering to such helplessness!
No wonder that the mother's heart is humbled at the
greatness of her mission as special guardian of the
little one! May divine love and wisdom aid and
guide her!
The newborn babe has had a sleep, at least a rest.
It has entered upon its new life, and all the functions
of the body are well established.
The first thing in lending a helping hand to the lit-
tle stranger is to give him a bath. This is done ordi-
narily by using soap and warm water. The vernix
caseosa, a thick, white, unctuous material that usually
covers the child, and is abundant in the axilla and
groin, is much more easily and thoroughly removed
by cleansing it entirely with some oily substance.
(204)
AN OIL BATH BEST. SOJ
For this purpose olive oil or lard can be used. It
should be applied with a soft, worn piece of flannel,
keeping the child well covered. When it is entirely
clean, rub all over with a fresh piece of flannel, and
the skin is left in a soft, smooth condition.
R. P. Harris, M. D., says: "As the vernix caseosa
is readily miscible with pure lard, and can be easily
removed by its means, the practice prevails with
many obstetricians in the United States of ordering
the infant well anointed, and then wiped from head
to foot with soft rags, until all the vernix disappears,
and the skin retains an oily trace, not enough to
soil the clothing. By this means water is avoided,
and with it much risk of taking cold; the skin is
left much less sensitive, after the sudden change
which it is made to endure at birth than when sub-
ject to soap and water."
Dress the navel with absorbent antiseptic cot-
ton. Put a piece three or four inches square on the
left side of the abdomen, just above the navel, the
remnant of the cord laid upon it, with its cut end
pointing to the left, and upward — the cotton arranged
to embrace the base of the cord, and another piece
of cotton the same size placed over the cord, the
whole kept in place by a soft flannel band. This is
preferable to linen. It absorbs the secretion more
readily, making less liability of an unpleasant odor.
It is kept in place better, and the cord comes off
much sooner. Can often be entirely removed the
fourth day. There needs to be no grease or oil upon
the cotton. After the separation of the cord, the
navel should be dressed with a little simple cerate or
cosmoline, and still use the absorbent cotton.
2o6 infant's clothing.
Any pouching of tJie navel C2Xi be relieved by using
a thin slice of cork or a piece of thick pasteboard two
inches in diameter. Wrap it with several thicknesses
of linen and place it outside of the cotton, applying
the bandage sufficiently snug to keep it in place.
The Clothing of the child should be soft, warm,
light, loose, and easily adjusted. Superfluous garments
should be avoided, and waistbands dispensed with.
Activity is so natural to child-life that it seems
almost life itself. Months before it is born a babe is
in ceaseless motion, and after birth it is never still
during its waking hours. This activity is synchron-
ous with its development and should be encouraged
rather than hindered. A child's dress, while it
serves the purposes of warmth, protection and adorn-
ment, should in no way prevent this activity.
Only a few years since, the dress for all infants
was cut low in the neck and with short sleeves. A
sensible reform made it fashionable to protect the
necks and arms of the little ones. It is equally as
essential and is just as desirable a reform, that the
dress should be so constructed that the natural act-
ivity of any part of the body is not hindered. To
accomplish this the skirts must be shortened and all
bands abolished. Is there any reason why a child's
clothes should be so long that they are a burden to
him and an inconvenience to all who handle him }
Many mothers, noting their babies* constant strug-
gle for exercise, frequently uncover their feet in
order to give them an opportunity to kick and
stretch. It is not unusual, also, for them to get them
out of long clothes by the time they are three months
old.
INFANT'S CLOTHING. 20/
One lady writes that she tried making her baby's
first clothes very short. They were only twenty-
seven inches in the entire length, from the shoulder
to the hem at the bottom. This experiment proved
so satisfactory that she says she will never put long
dresses on a child again. Not only was her baby so
much more comfortable, but he was so much more
easily handled that she felt repaid in the comfort it
was to herself. Aside from this, there was no neces-
sity of making short clothes for him until he walked,
which was a saving in time and money.
A new-born child requires the following garments:
A Shirt and Band Combined: This should be
made of soft flannel or knitted wool. If of flannel,
turn hems but once, and cross-stitch down smoothly.
Finish the neck and arm's eye with a button-hole
stitch, using silk or worsted. Lay a fold in back of
shirt, to make it fit the child, and stitch down
smoothly and lap in front and fasten as if it were a
band. The shirt has this advantage over the ordi-
nary band, that it cannot wrinkle up if the napkin is
pinned to it as it should be. One-half yard of thir-
ty-six inch flannel will make four shirts. This gar-
ment is worn mainly to keep the dressing upon the
navel in place, and can be discarded when that ne-
cessity no longer exists.
Foot blanket: Made of flannel, twenty-seven
inches square, and hemmed on three sides. Lay a
double box-plait in the center of fourth (or upper)
side, stitch down one inch, and face the same width,
with a strip of cotton, cut bias. Fasten over the
diaper with a small safety-pin. This garment pro-
tects other clothing and wraps the feet up nicely
2o8 infant's clothing.
until the child is large enough to wear socks. If the
weather is cold woolen socks are advisable from the
first. However, it is not absolutely necessary, and
some mothers dispense with it altogether
A Flannel Skirt: Is made with long sleeves, and
is cut from the same pattern as a night-dress or day-
slip. Fine, all-wool flannel is generally used for this
skirt, but I would recommend the use of the eider-
down flannel, which is also so desirable for baby
cloaks. The outside dress can be made as a Mother
Hubbard, or slip, and where taste inclines, it may be
of finest material and exquisite embroidery. Besides
the diaper, the flannel skirt and slip are all the
clothes a young baby actually requires. The skirt
should be put inside of the dress and the two put on
the child at the same time.
Thus an infant may be dressed in less than five
minutes, instead of the long, tedious process of the
customary dress.
Once clothing a baby in this simple fashion, one
would never be inclined to again adopt the long full
skirts, the bands and pins, that are a torture to in-
fants and trying to the patience of the mother.
The same general principle may be followed for a
child's wardrobe until he is put into drawers; then
these require to be attached to a light waist without
sleeves.
The first few months the child's feet are most com-
fortable in crocheted socks. The first shoes may be
made like moccasins, of broadcloth or chamois skin.
A lady in Cincinnati makes many of the latter for
the trade, supporting her children and an invalid
husband by their sale.
HABITS OF CLEANLINESS. 209
These directions for infants' clothing are so simple
that many may think they are not worth following,
but when we see the little ones bandaged and bur-
dened as we do, is it not time to make a protest that
will reach every mother? A child's dress should
always serve the purposes of protection and warmth
without any hindrance to its activity and develop-
ment.
Habits of cleanliness can be taught every child.
The clumsy diaper can be dispensed with by the time
it is three or four months old. Let the mother prac-
tice holding out her baby immediately after nursing
it, and it will easily be taught to urinate at this time,
and also to have a passage from the bowels at a
stated time in the morning and evening. The actual
comfort secured to mother and child through this
habit, more than repays for the labor and patience in
securing it. Teach your children to be cleanly. A
dirty child is a mother s disgrace. When a child be-
gins to creep and walk, the diaper (necessarily large
and bulky) has to be pinned too tightly for comfort
and health, in order to keep it in place.
A BATH may be given to the child every day or
every other day. By the time it is two months old,
it can be put into a bath daily. Should remain in
the water not more than five minutes. The tempera-
ture should not exceed 90°, and it is quite as well to
accustom the child to a lower temperature gradually.
Don't trust the hand to determine the heat. Always
have a thermometer. Do not bathe a child immedi-
ately after nursing. Avoid the use of soap. A
child's skin is naturally oily, and should be pre-
served so.
aiO NO ARTIFICIAL FOOD REQUIRED.
NURSING.
"The starting beverage meets the thirsty lip;
'Tis joy to yield it, and 'tis joy to sip."
The newborn infant needs no artificial food. It
should be put to the breast whenever it shows an
inclination. The true mother will delight in the priv-
ilege of nursing her child, and will allow nothing but
the most entire inability to prevent the exercise of
this maternal office.
The mother's milk is the natural fooa, and nothing
can fully take its place. Every means should be
used to secure and maintain this natural nutriment
before resorting to artificial food. The nursing pro-
cess, by sympathetic action, assists in restoring the
uterus to normal conditions. A few years since
everybody supposed the baby must be fed artificially
the first two days of its life, that there was a break
in nature's provision for its sustenance. The conse-
quence was the poor little victim was dosed with
all sorts of slops, catnip tea, panada, g^uel, cracker
water, cream tea, etc., etc. Remember, it needs
nothing but the secretion that is in the breast, which
is laxative at first, and removes the meconium from
the bowels. If for any reason the mother has not
milk for her child, or is separated from it, the best
substitute is a wet nurse, whose babe should be near
the same age. The nurse should be well and strong,
having abundant and nourishing milk.
The BEST ARTIFICIAL FOOD is Cream reduced and
sweetened with sugar of milk. Analysis show that
HAND FED CHILDREN. 211
the human milk contains more cream and sugar and
less casein than the milk of animals. The reduced
cream, sweetened, closely approximates human milk.
The difference in the quality of cream presents a
jreat difficulty. No rule can be given for its reduc-
tion. Most nurses leave it too rich, and the child's
system is soon deranged.
To obviate this difficulty, let new milk stand from
four to six hours, take the top off, reduce one-half
with hot water; to one pint add one teaspoonful of
sugar of milk and one grain of phosphate of lime.
When the child is from three to five months old, oat-
meal, barley or bran gruel can be added.
Children have not sufficient secretion of saliva to con-
vert starch into sugar. Therefore never use arrow-
root or corn starch; these do not digest in the stom-
ach, and intestinal derangement is likely to follow.
Bran or barley gruel furnishes phosphates, which are
essential to stimulate digestion.
Microscopical examination of the artificial foods
prepared and sold for infants, proves many of them
deficient in gluten and too abundant in starch to
make them desirable nutriment. The following ex-
tract from "Playfair's Midwifery" explains the
"Causes of mortality in hand-fed children.
— Much of the mortality following hand-feeding may
be traced to unsuitable food. Among the poorer
classes especially there is a prevalent notion that
milk alone is insufficient, and hence the almost uni-
versal custom of administering various farinaceous
foods, such as corn-flour or arrowroot, even from the
earliest period. Many of these consist of starch
alone, and are therefore absolutely unsuited for form-
U
212 BEST ARTIFICIAL MILK.
ing the staple of diet, on account of the total absence
of nitrogenous elements. Independently of this, it has
been shown that the saliva of infants has not at first
the digestive action on starch that it subsequently
acquires, and this affords a further explanation of its
so constantly producing intestinal derangement.
Reason, as well as experience, abundantly proves that
the object to be aimed at in hand-feeding is to imitate
as nearly as possible the food which nature supplies
for the newborn child, and therefore the obvious
course is to use milk from some animal, so treated as
to make it resemble human milk as nearly as may be.
"Artificial human milk.— An admirable plan of
treating cow's milk, so as to reduce it to almost ab-
solute chemical identity with human milk has been
devised by Professor Frankland, to whom I am in-
debted for permission to insert the receipt. I have
followed this method in many cases, and find it far
superior to the usual one, as it produces an exact and
uniform compound. With a little practice nurses can
employ it with no more trouble than the ordinary mix-
ing of cow's milk with water and sugar. The follow-
ing extracts from Dr. Frankland's work will explain
the principles on which the preparation of the artifi-
cial human milk is founded: 'The rearing of infants,
who can not be supplied with their natural food, is
notoriously difficult and uncertain, owing chiefly to
the great difference in the chemical composition of
human milk and cow's milk. The latter is much
richer in casein, and poorer in milk-sugar than the
former, whilst asses' milk, which is sometimes used
for feeding infants, is too poor in casein and butter,
although the proportion of sugar is nearly the same
ANALYSIS or MILK. 213
as in human milk. The relation of the three kinds
of milk to each other are clearly seen from the fol-
lowing- analytical numbers, which express the f>er-
centage amounts of the different constituents:
Woman. Ass Cow.
Casein 2.7 1.7 4.2
Butter 3.5 1.3 3.8
Milk-sugar 5.0 4.5 3.8
Salts 2 .5 .7
These numbers show that by the removal of one-
third of the casein from cow's milk, and the addition
of about one-third more milk-sugar, a liquid is ob-
tained which closely approaches human milk in com-
position, the percentage amounts of the four chief
constituents being as follows:
Casein 2.8
Butter 3.8
Milk-sugar $.0
Salts 7
The following is the mode of preparing the milk:
Allow one-third of a pint of new milk to stand for
about twelve hours, remove the cream and add to it
two-thirds of a pint of new milk, as fresh from tho
cow as possible. Into the one-third of a pint of blue
milk left after the abstraction of the cream, put a
piece of rennet about one inch square. Set the ves'
sel in warm water, until the milk is fully curdled, an
operation requiring from five to fifteen minutes, ac-
cording to the activity of the rennet, which should
be removed as soon as the curdling commences, and
put into an egg cup for use on subsequent occasions,
>I4 AVOID RUBBER NIPPLES.
IS it may be employed daily for a month or two.
Break up the curd repeatedly, and carefully separate
the whole of the whey, which should then be rapidly
heated to boiling in a small tin pan placed over a
spirit or gas lamp. During the heating a further
quantity of casein, technically called ' fleetings,'
separates, and must be removed by straining through
muslin. Now dissolve no grains of powdered sugar
of milk in the hot whey, and mix it with the two-
thirds of a pint of new milk, to which the cream from
the other third of a pint was added, as already de-
scribed. The artificial milk should be used within
twelve hours of its preparation, and it is almost need-
less to add that all the vessels employed in its manu-
facture and administration should be kept scrupu-
lously clean.
Any babe can be fed from the first with a spoon,
and in a few weeks it will drink from a cup or glass.
When it seems necessary to use the nursing bottle
the utmost care should be taken to keep it clean and
sweet. Two bottles should be used alternately. The
one not in use should be thoroughly rinsed, and then
laid (without the nipple) in an earthern or granite
dish, containing a solution of common soda. Let it
remain there until needed, then rinse it well, and
you may feel that it is in good condition. Cleanse
the nipple by hand. Do not use the rubber tube.
A young babe should not be fed more frequently
than once in two hours, and by the time it is three
months old once in three hours is preferable.
Most children, when four or five months old, can be
taught to sleep all night without nursing. Nothing
deranges a child'j digestion more than irregular and
TIME FOR WEANING.' 21$
constant nursing. I have seen a mother give her
child the breast five times during a half-hour's con-
versation. It is unreasonable to suppose that a child
is hungry every time it nestles and frets. Consider
the time since it has nursed, and look for other causes
of uneasiness before giving it the breast.
A babe should be weaned when it is from twelve
to eighteen months old. The exact time depends
largely upon its development, and also upon the
mother's condition. Begin weaning by omitting
nursing once a day for several days, then twice a day,
and so on. In this way the little one is weaned al-
most, or quite unconsciously, is never for a minute
unhappy, and the mother is saved great anxiety
and worry. Before weaning and some time after,
it should be fed upon oatmeal, barley meal, wheat
meal, graham bread and milk, wheatlet, etc. The
digestive organs are not in a condition for a
mixed diet until the teeth are developed, and, as has
been indicated above, the saliva is not yet an efficient
aid for digesting starchy food. Many a case of sum-
mer complaint, convulsions, etc., is due to the meat,
pie and cake upon which the child has been fed.
Meat-fed children are cross, irritable and quarrel-
some. Some three years since a kind, conscientious
mother said: "The greatest trial of my life is that
my children quarrel so with each other. I cannot
understand the reason. Nothing they do annoys me
so much, and by teaching, persuasion or punishment
I have been unable to change their habit."
Hoping to give her aid, I asked many questions —
among other things in regard to diet. She told me
they were great meat eaters; her husband and brother
2l6 MEAT FED CHILDREN.
must have it three times a day, and the children often
ate scarcely anything else. I told her the story of
the bear that was kept at the museum in Giessen;
when fed on bread only it was quiet and tractable —
even children could play with it with impunity — but
a few days* feeding upon meat would make it fero-
cious, quarrelsome and dangerous.
She agreed to try the experiment upon her child-
ren. I counseled her, as her husband did not dine at
home, to make a special dinner for the children. In-
stead of giving them scraps of cold meat, pies and
cake, etc., make them milk toast, tiny graham or corn
meal gems, cracked wheat or wheatlet moulded in
small cups with fruit sauce, fruit puddings, etc. Spare
no pains in making it attractive and palatable. Dec-
orate the table with fruit and flowers, and make the
occasions frequent when their own holiday presents
of china should be used. Follow this with a light
lunch at night, of simple, farinaceous food before the
ordinary family dinner. In this way they would be
tempted with the meat only at breakfast, and even
then, fresh fish, fish balls, omelets, etc., might often
be made to supplant the platter of steak or ham.
This lady entered into the plan heartily, and was
more than amply paid. In less than a month she
could see a difference in the habits of her children,
and a year later she testified that it would hardly be
recognized as the same family. The children were
cheerful, playful, gleeful, and full of spirit — but in
place of fretfulness and quarrels, were kind, benevo-
lent and considerate to each other. They were also
more than ordinarily exempt from acute attacks of
fevers and inflammation.
CHAPTER XVIL
DISEASES OF INFANTS.
The diseases herein treated are mainly those for
which a physician is seldom called. A few sugges-
tions are also added upon those in which the severity
of the attack necessitates attention before medical
aid can be obtained.
Aphtha is sometimes the resuit of scrofula, other-
wise it is caused by improper quality or quantity oi
food, either natural or artificial. In bottle-fed babes
it otten results from the milk not being sufficiently
diluted, or from the use of starchy food. Neglect of
general cleanliness in many cases give rise to this
ailment. The child is feverish, fretful, and often re-
fuses the brea?'c on account of pain experienced in
nursing. Sometimes there is vomiting and thin
watery diarrhea. The tongue, gums, palate and in-
side of cheeks and lips are thickly specked with white
flecks; sometimes there is a dirty diphtheritic-like
membrane. Aphtha usually runs its course in a few
days. Those cases are exceptional which are fol-
lowed by unpleasant results.
Treatment. — Sometimes the case requires merely
the washing of the mouth two or three times a day
with a weak solution of borax, ten grains to one
ounce of water. The mouth should be cleansed after
each meal, as should ^,l3o the mother's nipple.
2l8 EXCORIATION OF GROIN.
]^ Hydrastis lo gr.
Sugar, lOO gr.
Pulverize thoroughly and put a small quantity in-
to the mouth two or three times a day.
Arsenicum, jd. — Patches of a dark color; severe,
watery, painless diarrhea, thirst and great prostra-
tion. Dose, six pellets every three hours.
Merc. Sol., jd. — Dribbling saliva, offensive breath,
greenish diarrhea with pain. Dose, six pellets every
four hours.
Excoriation of groin and axilla frequently
trouble very fat, scrofulous or bottle-fed babies. The
surface becomes raw, inflamed, and often painful.
Bathe frequently in tepid soft water, or what often
proves better, milk and water. Dry with a soft linen
cloth. Or hold the sufferer over a tub or basin, and
from a large sponge squeeze tepid soft water on the
affected part. Repeat every two or three hours.
This is grateful and healing. The occasional use of
cosmoline or of sweet cream in which clover blos-
soms have been steeped is beneficial. Avoid nursery
powders. If the methods advised fail, scorch flour
and apply several times a day. Should there be
eruptions or ulcers use a powder of the following:
B» Scorched Flour Sj
Powdered Hydrastics 5j
Mix. Apply through a powder bag after washing
Borax, half a drachm to a pint of soft water, givev
relief where great inflammation attends the excoria-
tion. Lay upon the affected part for an hour or two
at a time soft cloths wet in the cold lotion. Frequent
COLIC — STARCHY FOOD. 219
washing and perfect cleanliness are really the best
preventives and cures.
Colic is the torture of babyhood, as well as a con-
stant source of parental solicitude. It is not consid-
ered a dangerous disease, but the sufferings of the
little one are a great tax upon sympathetic nerves.
There is no special age when the infant is subject to
colic. It occurs more frequently when it is from two
to five months old. However, children may suffer
from it before they are two weeks old.
Severe colics are usually the result of derange-
ments of the liver, and when mothers are badly
nourished, the child is freqaently born with the
trouble. The condition is largely due to a deficiency
of nitrogenous elements and phosphates in the food.
The system is over supplied with carbonates in the
shape of starch, fats and sugar, and deficient in ele-
ments that build up the tissues, such as gluten, fibrin,
albumen, etc. The mother partakes of food that
produces an inflammatory condition, and lacks in that
which makes muscle, bone and nerve. She should
be cautious about eating ol mixed dishes and also of
greasy and highly seasoned food.
Let her diet be chiefly of barley, wheatlet, rolled
wheat, and bread from graham flour, or Lockport
entire wheat flour, with the addition of fish, milk and
eggs. Fruits can be partaken of freely, avoiding
those that are exceedingly acid. It is only when fruit
is not eaten all the time, that colic in the child is
caused by the mother's partaking of it. If it has been
eaten freely during pregnancy, it will do no harm
during lactation. Until the causes of colic can be re-
moved, palliative treatment must be resorted to
220 AVOID OPIATES.
A colicky baby must be kept warm, avoiding all
changes in temperature.* A rubber bag or bottle
filled with hot water and put in the crib will keep the
child, once quited, asleep for hours. During the
paroxysms put the child's feet in a basin of hot water,
or place cloths wrung from hot water over its bowels,
and if the attack is very severe, a full hot bath will
often give relief.t
Avoid giving opiates. They constipate the bowels
and derange digestion. In acute attacks following
their use, the brain and spine are likely to be seri-
ously involved. Nearly all cordials sold for colic
contain opium. Analysis reveals morphine, one grain
to the ounce, in Winslow's soothing syrup.
The following from a daily paper only shows that
many medicines are the mother's enemy, instead of
the "Mother's Friend." "The Tewksbury almshouse
horror once more calls attention to the frightful
abuse of narcotics for which the medical profession is
to a great extent responsible. In the Tewksbury
child's hospital the nurses were provided with mor-
phine in half-pint bottles! No wonder the babies
were kept so still that they died at a rate never before
*An interesting account has lately appeared in medical journals,
entitled, "Incubating Babies." Some physician had charge of found-
lings, and tried the experiment of keeping them devoid of clothing in
ventilated boxes, at an even temperature of 80". They were fed at
regular intervals. They slept most of the time. During the waking
periods, kicked, laughed and crowed, but seldom cried. He lessened
the mortality very greatly, and possibly pwoved to the world that the
hardening or toughening process is begun too soon for the best vigor
of childhood.
f A warm bath, indeed, let the cause of "griping" be what it may,
usually affords instant relief. — Chcvasx.
mother's friend. 221
heard of. An idea of the extent to which nar-
cotics are given to infants in English manufacturing
towns is gleanable from the deposition of a Hanley
chemist before a coroner's jury. He testified that he
made up and sold six gallons a day of an article called
'Mother's Friend.' This stuff contains seven and
one-half drops of laudanum to the ounce. With this
it is customary to dose their babies so that they shall
sleep during the time the young mothers are engaged
at the factories. Of course the infant mortality of
the place is frightful.
"In contradistinction to this practiee of barbar-
ously working young mothers, Mr. Schneider, the
owner of the great Creuzot iron works in France,
compels a mother to stay from work for a few months
before and after a child is born. For the carrying
out of this humane purpose he has created a fund
out of which the wages of the mother during the
period of her incapacity are paid."
Convulsions, brain fever, summer complaint, etc.,
are often the result of the early use of opiates. I
can recall many cases where spasms in summer com-
plaint were caused evidently and directly by the use
of opiates employed to check a slight ailment, in itself
harmless.
For Colic. — Some diffusible stimulant is prefer-
able to narcotics. In mild cases, a few tea-spoonfuls
of hot water suffice, and there is but little objection
to the old-fashioned catnip tea.
Peppermint essence. — One drop in six tea-spoons of
hot water often affords relief. Feed slowly,
Camphor^ tincture. — Pain is severe and cramp-like,
knees flexed, hands and feet cold, face livid^esDecially
222 BEST REMEDIES.
if there is diarrhea; put one drop on a tea-spoonful of
sugar, mix thoroughly, then add six tea-spoons of hot
water. Dose — A tea-spoonful every ten minutes.
Chamomillay 2d. — Stools are green and every diaper
is stained. The child is very restless, nurses often,
constantly desires change of position and attend-
ants, wants to be carried from room to room. If the
homeopathic preparation does not give relief, make
an infusion of the blossoms. To six graius of the
bloom, pour one gill boiling water. Feed slowly.
Four or five tea-spoonfuls are usually sufficient. Any
of these preparations, except camphor, should not be
sweetened,
Nux Vojnicayjd. — Constipation or undigested curds
of milk in the feces. Child starts in its sleep, has
short naps and throws its head back when it cries.
To one grain add six tea-spoons of warm water, and
give every ten minutes in half tea-spoonful doses.
For colic of children and grown people, I have found
more frequent relief from this remedy than all others.
It promotes digestion, equalizes the circulation and
feeds the nervous system. The nursing mother
should also take it once or twice a day when the
child has these symptoms, and an occasional dose
taken by both, prevents subsequent attacks. She
must remember, too, to take sufficient rest and sleep,
using every means to promote her own best health.
Constipation is not a very frequent ailment of in-
fants, but is occasionally met with, and sometimes be-
comes very obstinate. When a nursing child is thus
affected, the mother will usually be found to be
suffering from the same conditions. In such a case,
she should follow the directions in Chap. V, and
CONSTIPATION OF INFANTS. 223
through correct habits in her own system, she will
doubtless find the child relieved.
Want of regularity in its habits often produces cos-
tiveness in an infant. If he is fed or nursed regularly,
and held out at the same time of each day, and as he
gets older is put upon a chair, he will seldom be
troubled with this complaint. It is wonderful how
soon the bowels in most cases, by this simple plan,
may be brought into a regular habit.
A soap suppository should be used after a day or
two, if this method fails. This is a safe, speedy and
certain method of moving the bowels. Make it by
paring a piece of white castile soap round. Should
be about the size of a lead-pencil, pointed at the end,
and two inches in length. Moisten in warm water
and introduce nearly the whole length. After re-
maining from one to five minutes it will be expelled
and the bowels will be comfortably and effectually
relieved.
If the feces are very hard, like little balls, it is bet-
ter to give an enema of castile soapsuds, to one cup-
ful of which, one tea-spoonful of sweet oil has been
added. Squeezing cold or tepid water over the
child's bowels, followed by hand friction, aids to
stimulate them to action.
Some advise rubbing the bowels with castor oil.
getting thereby the aperient effect, without the irri-
tation of an internal dose.
Do not begin by giving a little baby aperient drugs.
Chevasse says: "If you once begin, and continue it
for a while, opening medicine becomes a dire neces-
sity, and then woe betide the poor unfortunate child."
Purgative medicines irritate beyond measure the
224 INFANTILE DIARRHKA.
tender organs of an infant and ordinarily result in
constipation.
Diarrhea of infants is nature's first method of
removing obstructions and overcoming derangements
of the system, and in nine cases out of ten should
not be interfered with.
The natural movements are usually thin, and of
a bright orange color. One author describes them as
being of the "consistence and color of mustard mixed
for the table." They are nearly devoid of smell, or
at least have only a faint, disagreeable odor. Many
children at first have from three to six movements
in a day. If they should increase to from six to
twelve and still not change materially in consistence
color or odor, there is no cause for uneasiness.
Many an attack of sickness is the result of check-
ing a diarrhea with opiates and astringents. If the
discharges become watery, green, attended with
griping, or streaked with mucus or blood, are of an
ashen or chalk color, or if they have undigested curds
of milk, then they demand attention. Above all,
keep the child quiet and apply heat. The hot water
bottle is most excellent. An enema of hot water
often gives entire relief without the use of other
remedies. I have known large families of children,
in which for years no other means was used for the
successful control of this disease.
Dysentery is indicated by mucus and blood with
straining. It is an inflammation of the rectum and
large intestines. Warm flaxseed tea injections after
the discharge give great relief. Compresses should
be put on the bowels for an hour or two at a time,
three or four times a day.
-SHEET PACK — SUMMER COMPLAINT. 225
A general pack is exceedingly helpful where fever
attends this or other affections.
To pack a child, remove all its clothing, put on its
nightdress, lay in the crib on a woolen blanket: wet
the nightdress in tepid water, using a sponge, put
a hot bottle to the feet.
Wrap the child closely in the blanket and be sure
reaction takes place. Let it lie in this one hour, when
it should be sponged carefully and wiped dry. This
pack is indicated in any disease of children where
there is sufficient fever and heat to produce reaction.
Remember, the simplest measures are often the most
effectual. (The above suggestions are equally valu-
able in giving packs to adults.)
Summer complaint is an inflammation or irrita-
tion of the mucus membrane of the intestines.
Owing to dentition and change of food, children are
more liable to this affection in their second summer.
They are then constantly the subject of anxious so-
licitude by their parents and friends.
If the discharges are only frequent and yellow, un-
accompanied by pain and fever, there is no cause for
anxiety. It is simply an effort of nature to restore
normal conditions, and should not be interfered with.
Too hastily checking this diarrhea is frequently the
cause of spasms and other serious affections.
The symptoms of summer complaint proper, are
frequent, watery movements; at first may be green
but soon become gray, brown and frothy, sometimes
having a mixture of phlegm and mucus; frequently
are fetid, and, at times, contain undigested food. It
may or may not be accompanied by pain. Nausea
and vomiting are frequent symptoms, and if severe,
226 SYMPTOMS — CAUSES.
constitute cholera infantum. The surface of the body
is cold, often in a cold perspiration, while the soles
of the feet and palms of the hands are dry and hot.
It is usually attended with great thirst, a quick pulse
and increased temperature.
Some children are prostrated at once by the at-
tack, losing flesh and strength rapidly, while others
keep about many days. Appetite fails, or else
there are morbid cravings, often for the very
things that increase the irritation. If the disease is
not abated, the fever and thirst increase, the tongue
becomes dry and brown, pulse is more rapid, the
strength fails, great restlessness ensues, the brain
becomes affected, coma ensues, and death closes the
scene.
Impure air and improper diet are the principal
causes of this disease. Sleeping and living rooms
not being sufficiently ventilated, the blood becomes
poisoned. Children are fed a mixed diet too soon.
Rich and highly seasoned food that is even unsuita-
ble for adults, except in a vigorous outdoor life, is
given them, and at irregular hours. The delicate
organs are overtaxed, and inflammatory conditions
produced. When a child is weaned it should be fed
upon oat, wheat and corn meal mush, bread and
milk, rice, cracked wheat, wheatlet, barley, and ripe
fruits. Meats, condiments, tea and coffee, and food
containing fats should be avoided. Even most of
the vegetables are not adapted to children.
Give them simple but nutritious diet, turn them,
like colts, outdoors to run and play, and you will
save yourselves anxiety, save doctor's bills, and best
of all, save your children. Blood that is too carbo-
OUT-DOOR LIFE. 22/
naceous can be oxygenized by plenty of outdoor ex-
ercise, both by adults and children. The less cloth-
ing a child wears in hot weather the better, only I
would advise that flannel be worn next the skin.
This will prevent sudden checking of perspiration.
By all means let the little children go barefoot. A
child that has a sand pile to play in, and is allowed
to run barefoot, must be of a very delicate organiza-
tion if he can have summer complaint. By direct
contact with the earth, superabundance of electric-
ity is carried off, and thus is lessened the possibility
of inflammation. The child that spends most of its
waking hours outdoors, barefooted, seldom gets summer
complaint. He has:
" Sleep that wakes in laughing day;
Health that mocks the doctor's rules;
Outward sunshine; inward joy;
Blessing on thee, barefoot boy! "
In summer complaint give but little food, and that
only in a liquid form. Barley water, rice water, oat-
meal gruel, bran jelly, lemon jelly and orange whey,
are all good. Milk can be used, if relished and di-
gested. It is ordinarily better to be reduced by
adding one-third boiling water. All of these must
be given in small quantities and at regular intervals.
The best drink is soft water. If there is vomiting, a
drink make by steeping whole parched corn, is ex-
cellent. Also oatmeal coffee is good. The juice of
acid fruits is beneficial, and can be used freely. But
on no account allow the pulp, seed or skin to be
eaten. Remember, very little nourishment can be
appropriated. The child, especially if nursing, often
takes food on account of thirst.
A COMPRESS wrung from cold water should be ap-
16
228 SUGGESTIVE TREATMENT.
plied if there is local heat, and allowed to remain for
two or three hours, then removed, and the parts
bathed in tepid water. If there is pain, hot fomenta-
tions or hot enemas, will be advantageous.
Under all circumstances avoid opiates and astrin-
gents. These stop the discharges without removing
the cause, and if the disease does not recur in the
same form, some other organ is liable to become
affected. If the child seems to need nourishment and
is not able to take it, an enema of a thin bran tea
will prove nourishing without being irritating.
Keep tJu child quiet, in a well ventilated room, or
in the open air. A bed made of the inside corn
husks stripped fine, is the best. A new material for
bedding made of Florida moss is excellent. A child,
sick or well, should not sleep on bed or pillows of
feathers. By observing these simple directions
most cases of this dread disease can be saved.
Remedies for dysentery and summer complaint.
Arserticum, jd. — The discharges are thin, watery,
yellow, accompanied by thirst, hands and feet hot.
Six pellets every two hours.
Cuprum, jd. — Discharges green, frequent and
small, with much pain. Six pellets every two hours.
Camphor tincture. — Discharges watery, frequent
vomiting, coldness of extremities. Prepared and
given as on page 221.
Mercury sol., ^d. — Discharges watery, gush out,
followed by sinking, have a bad odor. Six pellets
every three hours.
Mercury cctr., jd. — Green discharges streaked with
mucus or blood, accompanied by straining effort.
Six pellets every four hours.
INFLAMMATION OF THE BOWEL& 229
Veratrum Viride^ jd, — Coldness of extremities,
head hot, thirst, nausea, vomiting. Six pellets every
two hours.
Phosphorus, jd. — Odorless, clay colored discharges-
Four pellets every hour.
Inflammation of the bowels is inflammation
of the intestines, involving either all their coats or
only their mucus lining. The symptoms are rigors,
followed by dry, hot skin; quick, wiry, strong pulse;
thirst, nausea or vomiting, diarrhea or constipation;
severe pain in the abdomen, especially around the
navel, aggravated by pressure. Lies on his back
with his knees drawn up,
Causes. — Errors in diet, cold, use 01 drugs, especi-
ally of purgatives and strong medicines used tc
check diarrhea. Remember what is said of diarrhea
on page 224, and do not be in haste to check the
first symptoms. Use liquid food only. It is seldom
necessary to give remedies.
Hot fomenlations alternated with cold compresses
carefully adjusted, will prove very efficacious. Hot
enemas should also be given.
Dentition under natural and proper conditions
should not be accompanied by constitutional distur-
bances. Some law must have been violated to have
caused derangements with teething.
The symptoms of the disorders of dentition are
hot, swollen gums, accompanied by feverishness and
restlessness, starting, as if in fright, or interrupted
sleep, increased flow of saliva, various eruptions Tt
the head or body, derangements of the digestive or
gans. Summer complaint is the most frequent of t/ s
ailments peculiar to teething, which see page 225.
230 DENTITION.
The most prevalent and serious cause for these ail-
ments is to be found in the adoption of a mixed diet
at too early an age. A teething infant cannot with
impunity be thus fed. This is sufficiently proved by
the lack of a full complement of teeth needful for
mastication. Disturbed conditions of the mother, as
worry, anger, over-heating, and fatigue often result
in serious effects on the nursing child.
Let the gums be bathed frequently in cold water.
Lancing is seldom necessary.
Starchy foods and sweets should be avoided. It
has been proven that the love for sweets often mani-
fested by children is an unnatural appetite. It is
doing injury to the teething infant to cultivate this
taste by universally sweetening its food. Supple-
ment the milk diet with graham mush, wheatlet,
granula, or bread of the fine flour of the entire
wheat.
Keep the child much in the open air. See that the
head is cool and the feet warm. Bathe daily in cold
water, and keep a flannel band or shirt about the
abdomen.
Chamomilla, 2d. — An excellent medicine for most
cases of disordered dentition, especially in the ab-
sence of fever. Also when there is bilious purging,
intestinal irritation, cough, nervousness and fretful-
ness. Six pellets every hour.
Aconitum, 2d. — Feverishness, restlessness, inflamed
gums. Ten drops in half a glass of water, teaspoon-
ful every half hour. A cloth wet in this preparation
given to a child to hold in its mouth will alleviate
heat and pain in the gums, and will be highly appre-
ciated by the little one.
REMEDIES IN DENTITION. 331
Calcarea Card., ^d. — Slimy diarrhea in scrofulous
patients. Six pellets every three hours.
Arsenicum, /d. — Thirst, hot hands and feet, great
emaciation. Six pellets every hour.
Bell., 3d. — Flushed face, nervous irritability, un-
easiness in sleep. Six pellets every hour.
Pod. 2d, — Diarrhea with pain of an intermitting
character, prolapsus ani. Six pellets every three
hours.
Silicea, 6th. — Perspiration about the head upon fall-
ing asleep. Six pellets three times a day.
CHAPTER XVIII.
DISEASES OF INFANTS. — CONTINUED.
Worms. — Thread or pin worms and round worms ssg
most common. Thread-worms are about half an inch
in length, white in color, and move rapidly. They
are found in the anus or lower part of the rectum.
Thread-worms give rise to restlessness and itching
about the anus, especially in the evening after first
falling asleep. Give with a child's syringe a small
injection of a tablespoonful of raw linseed oil. In
some instances annointing externally with the oil or
with cosmoline will give relief. Keep the parts well
cleansed, using suds of carbolic soap. The round-
worm is from six to fifteen inches long, resembling
the common earth-worm, but of a paler color. It
is supposed to feed on the chyle, and lives generally
in the small intestines, but it sometimes passes up-
ward into the stomach, and is expelled by vomiting,
or downward, and is ejected with the evacuations.
The presence of the round-worm maybe indicated
by indigestion, swelling of the abdomen, restlessness,
grinding of the teeth in sleep, convulsion, etc. It is
the result of a mixed diet, and is rarely found when
the child has been fed on the product of the grains.
Santonine, ist. — Grain doses, three times a day for
three days. Follow this on the fourth day by a copi-
ous enema, one pint of water, to which one tea-spoon
(232)
CROUP, THE MOTHER'S TERROR. 233
of salt has been added. After three days, if the
symptoms still continue, repeat treatment.
Incontinence of Urine.— This annoying ailment
is common among children. Mothers and nurses
often deal impatiently with the unfortunate child,
believing it to be a habit, which may be easily over-
come. It is more often a malady than a habit. In
neither case is it ever cured by scolding. If a habit,
a promised reward is more effective than harsh treat-
ment. Give the child a light supper devoid of liquids.
Take him up once or twice in the night to urinate.
Bathe the spine at bedtime with equal parts of alco-
hol and ammonia, followed by hand friction.
Retention of Urine. — The child is restless, un-
easy and unable to pass water, beyond perhaps a small
quantity, though there is frequent urging. It may be
caused by cold, injuries or acute disease. A full hot
bath, or hot fomentations nearly always produce relief.
Aconitum, jd. — Retention from cold, fever, or in-
flammation, hot, dry skin, thirst, etc.
Cantharis. jd. — Frequent urging, with total sup-
pression; or the discharge, with pain, of a few drops
of bloody urine.
Croup is liable to attack a child any time from the
age of one month, until nine or ten years old. The
attacks occur most frequently when about two or
three years of age. Nothing will more quickly make
a mother's heart stand still with alarm and terror
than to hear the hoarse,whistling, sonorous breathing
of croup. A few directions will be of service until
medical attendance can be obtained.
Authors recognize two varieties, the spasmodic
•uid membranous, and recently some speak of diph-
234 TRUE AND FALSE CROUP.
theritic croup. In the first, the inflammation does
not run so high, and the hoarseness may be simply
nervous. It runs its course rapidly. Usually the
child goes to bed all right and awakens about ii or
12 o'clock with a loud ringing or rasping cough, and
some difficulty of breathing. The attack relieved,
will seem all right through the following day, unless
an occasional cough. Usually recurs three or four
successive nights, is seldom fatal.
In membranous cro2ip^ there may be a slight hoarse-
ness and difficulty of breathing several days before
the attack becomes severe. The mucus membrane
of the throat becomes red and inflamed, with a thick
ropy exudation that forms in a membrane, covering
the entire fauces. Fever may or may not be present.
Symptoms remain much the same, day and night.
Duration of the disease from two to fourteen days.
The following are a few of the symptoms to aid in
distinguishing between the different forms of croup:
TRUE OR MEMBRANOUS CROU FALSE OR SPASMODIC CROUP.
Begins any time. Begins from ten to twelve o'clock
First symptoms catarrhal. at night.
Symptoms slight at first. Severe at first.
Cough harsh and rough. Cough loud and linging.
Voice weak, whispers. Voice hoarse.
Membrane always visible. No membrane.
No fetor. diphtheria.
Membrane lies upon mucus Fetid breath,
membrane, is loose, and can be Membrane dips down in the
removed easily. mucus membrane.
Membrane mvades the larynx Is tenacious, firm, adherent,
from below and progresses up- Membrane invades the larynx
ward. Membrane always con- from above and progresses down-
tinuous and glairy. ward, and often is seen in patches.
TREATMENT FOR CROUP. 235
Many cases of spasmodic croup are relieved en-
tirely by using promptly a compress of ice cold
water; should be worn day and night, and kept well
covered with a woolen cloth. Apply to the throat
only. Renew in one or two hours, if the first appli-
cation does not give relief. Many families never
resort to any other means for croup, being confident
that this will give certain relief.
The following remedy I have used for years with
the happiest result. Families that have croupy
children keep it in the house, and I seldom have to
be called out at night for croup by regular patrons.
It can be put up at any homeopathic pharmacy. Do
not try to get it at the drug store, as the ordinary
drug clerk has no inkling of homeopathic trituration.
3 Tartar Emetic, 2d trit. 3 ij
Aconite Tincture, gtts. ij
Mix. Dry out, triturate half an hour. Put six
grains in twelve tea-spoons of water, and give in tea-
spoonful doses every ten or fifteen minutes. It is not
necessary that the emetic effect of the drug should
be secured. It has a specific action upon the air
passages, and is an invaluable remedy in many of the
acute affections of throat and lungs. Aconite alone
gives relief frequently, and many physicians use no
other remedy. The two together in the above prep-
aration have seldom failed me, and as an old friend I
recommend it. During the day following the attack
give a tea-spoonful of the remedy once in two hours.
Keep the child on a light diet and free from exposure.
In membranous or diphtheritic croup, the services
of a physician will always be secured if possible.
236 DIPHTHERIA.
Proto-iodide of mercury is my "sheet anchor" for
both these affections. Of this I give the second trit-
uration in grain doses every two hours. Often give
the prescription recommended for spasmodic croup
at the same time, a tea-spoonful every twenty or
thirty minutes. Other remedies, such as iodine, bro-
mi?ie, nitrate of amy I, bichrm^iate of potassa^phospJwriis,
etc., are used as the symptoms indicate; but the
proto-iodide or bin-iodide of mercury will meet the
exigencies of more cases than any other one known
remedy. Of course hot baths, hot fomentations and
cold compresses must be brought into requisition. I
have seen great relief, even where the disease seemed
in the last stages, from a poultice of fresh phytolacca
(pokeroot), applied to the throat. This is made by
pounding the root and mixing it with hot flaxseed or
meal poultice. Not being able to procure the root,
fluid extract can be used.
Diphtheria is now considered an infectious dis-
ease, produced by bacteria or infusoria that inoculate
the patient. Many claim to be able to cure the dis-
ease by local means only, while the invasion is only
local, before the entire system is poisoned. A child
in robust health will usually resist the infection. The
following methods of treatment are highly vaunted
for their efficacy. Both of the drugs recommended
are invaluable in destroying infusoria, and are used
in the hands of eminent practitioners with success:
Sulphur. — Put a teaspoonful into a wine glass of
water and stir it with the finger instead of a spoon,
as it does not readily amalgamate with water. When
well mixed, it is to be given to the patient to gar-
gle. When the fungus is too nearly closing to allow
TREATMENT FOR DIPHTHERIA. 237
the gargling, the sulphur should be thrown through
a quill into the throat, and after the fungus has
shrunk to allow it, then the gargling. If the patient
cannot gargle, take a live coal, put it on a shovel,
and sprinkle a spoonful of flour of brimstone upon it;
let the sufferer inhale it by holding the head over it,
and the fungus will die. Sulphur kills every species
of fungus in man, beast and plant, in a few minutev..
At one time at Princess Mary's Cottage Home, Lon-
don, an outbreak of diphtheria attacked fifty of the
inmates. One of the lady nurses cured them all by
causing the patients to gargle with sulphur, and to
take it internally.
Permanganate of potassium. — Take ten grains and
mix with one ounce of cold water. As soon as dis-
solved it must be applied with a rag or sponge, mop
or swab, to the whitish places in the tonsils and other
parts, on which is seen the diphtheritic membrane.
Do this very gently, but thoroughly, every three
hours until better; then every six hours until well.
It does not give pain but is rather nauseous to the
taste. In the stinking form of diphtheria this solution
soon destroys all odor, and in most cases it destroys
the membrane without leaving any bad effect behind.
The following is given if the tongue is coated white.
]^ Hyposulphite of soda, . 5i'
Oil of sassafras, . gtts. v.
Glycerine and water, aa 5ij'
Mix. Give a teaspoonful every one to three hours.
If the tongue is not coated,
Es Phytolacca tincture, gtts. xx.
Glycerine and water, aa % ij.
238 CONTAGIOUS DISEASES
Tea-spoonful doses every one to three hours.
The Phytolacca is the common poke-root, and as
it loses its strength by drying and age, the tincture
should be from the fresh root, or it is worthless.
Contagious diseases common to infants usually
need cause no apprehension. Under favorable con-
ditions they run their course in a few days. Ordi-
narily, the danger, and ailments following these dis-
eases are the result of the prevailing drug treatment.
Give the patient light, fresh air and all the water he
wants, with frequent bathing, and in most cases the
physician will not be required. This is especially
true of measles. The prevailing custom of confining
the patient in heated and darkened rooms, smother-
ing him with blankets, and dosing him with hot teas
will bring about the very conditions to be avoided.
Give him no food unless he craves it, then for a few
days liquids only. Remember that all eruptive dis-
eases are only the expression of existing conditions,
and if not interfered with will leave the child in a
better state of health. If the intelligent mother has
given birth to a healthy child, she need not fear to
encounter these affections in their simple form. In-
deed, children most in harmony with nature escape
them altogether.
Scarlet fever, or scarletina is more liable to
assume a malignant form than any other eruptive
fever. When this threatens, the case should be placed
in the hands of a competent physician. It spreads by
infection rapidly and insiduously. The rash first
appears on the breast, then on neck, face, body and
limbs. This is preceded by a sore throat, with the
usual symptoms of fever. Thorough and abundant
MEASLES AND SCARLET FEVER.
239
ventilation is a most vital point in the treatment.
Use carbolic acid freely. Keep a sheet wet in a solu-
tion of it hanging in the room. The patient should
be frequently sponged. If the throat is troublesome
apply a wet compress, and occasionally inhale steam.
The wet pack, as prescribed on page 225, is most
valuable, if administered by an experienced person.
An eminent physician testifies that he never lost a
case of scarlet fever in which he used the wet pack.
In suppression of the eruption a hot bath or pack is
efificacious in bringing it out.
Diet. — New milk and hot milk (reduced one-third).
Milk is a good antidote for poison, and lessens the
virulence of the fever. Grapes, oranges and fruit
juice are excellent.
MEASLES. SCARLET FEVER,
I. Rash appears on fourth day.
2.. Catarrhal symptoms are
prominent, watery discharge from
the eyes and nose, sneezing,
harsh cough, etc.
3. The rash begins near the
roots of the hair.
4. The rash is of a pinkish red
or raspberry color.
5. The eruption is somewhat
rough, so as to be felt by passing
the hand over the skin.
6. Has a peculiar fetid odor.
7. Liquid, tender, watery eye.
8. The cuticle is thrown off in
minute portions, like fine scales
of bran.
1 . Rash appears the second day.
2. Catarrhal symptoms are usu-
ally absent, but there is great
heat of the skin, sore throat, and
sometimes delirium.
3. The rash begins on the neck
and face.
4. The rash is of a bright scar
let color, and by pressing with
the finger a white spot is pro-
duced, lasting a few seconds.
5. Eruption usually presents no
inequalities to sight or touch, and
is so minute and closely crowded
as to give the skin a uniformly
red appearance.
6. A peculiar brilliant glisten-
ing stare of the eyes.
7. The cuticle is thrown off in
large patches, especially from the
hands and feet.
24© CONVULSIONS.
Whooping cough is both epidemic and conta-
gious. It is usually mild in a healthy child, but severe
and sometimes fatal in others. The younger the child
the more dangerous the disease. The cough is gene-
rally worse at night. Even after apparent recovery
it may be brought back by exposure to cold, by im-
proper food, or by want of careful nursing. A rea-
sonable amount of outdoor exercise is conducive to
the favorable progress of the malady. Dampness
should be avoided, as the skin is generally sensitive
to cold, especially after a fit of coughing. Infants
should be carefully watched, day and night, that they
may be placed in a favorable position during the
paroxysms.
Light, digestible food in moderate quantities should
be given frequently. Hot milk is especially soothing
and nutritious, particularly during the first days of
the attack, and may well take the place of all other
food.
Convulsions rarely attack very young infants,
unless from malformation of the heart. Convulsions
usually accompany teething, indigestion, whooping
cough, fevers, worms, indeed any disease that causes
a reflex action upon the brain. Occasionally a child
has a convulsion without any premonitory symptom,
but usually there will be a restlessness in sleep, arol-
ing of the head, twitching of the limbs, with clenched
fists, stertorious breathing,and heavy, lethargic sleep.
From this condition there is suddenly involuntary
muscular contractions, rolling of the eyes, frothing
at the mouth, and the head drawn backward. What-
ever is to be done must be done quickly, and gene-
rally before medical aid can be summoned. First,
USE HOT WATER. 24 1
the mother and attendants must command them-
selves. Nothing is more frightful than to see a little
one in convulsions, but upon no occasion is self-pos-
session more needed. Remember children rarely
die in the first paroxysm
Get the child into hot water as soon as possible.
Don't wait to remove its clothing; put into a foot-
tub or child's bath having the water as hot as can be
borne, supporting it on two hands. And from time
to time as much hot water as the hands will bear. It
should remain in the bath until relaxation is produced,
and then be wrapped in thoroughly heated blankets.
If there is not sufficient warm water in the house
for a bath, it is often quite as effectual to take a
pitcher of hot water, turn the child upon its face,
hold it over a pail, and pour the water on the back of
the neck. This is more easily managed than a bath,
and often is all that is requisite to bring about relaxa-
tion. A bag of hot salt laid to the back of the neck
will prevent a return. If there is constipation or
irritation in the bowels, give a copious enema of
warm soft water. If worms are suspected, add salt, a
tea-spoonful to one pint of water.
For further treatment, as there are so many differ-
ent things that will cause spasms, one should better
depend upon medical advice.
In closing these brief hints upon diseases of chil-
dren, I wish to impress upon the parent's mind the
fact that in nine cases out of ter children need no
treatment for their ailments. Their natural recuper-
ative power gives them ability to throw of disease in
a marvelous manner.
Too much care and nursing is quite as harmful as
24i CONTAGIOUS HEALTH.
too little. It is ordinarily better to make light of
their ailments, and teach them the power of self-
resistance to the enroachments of disease. A cheer-
ful, hopeful manner, accompanied by the encouraging
word, is quite as helpful in sickness of children as in
that of adults.
Do not discuss their ailments before them. Avoid
hinting that sickness is possible, or anticipating it for
them as results oi certain conduct. Keep it from
your own mind also. Never allow yourself to say: "If
you go out in the cold you will get sick." "Don't sit
by the window you will take cold." "Now do get
out of that draft." "You must not eat so much.
Now, there, not one mouthful more, you will be sick."
"Do put on your overcoat and rubbers."
Now, dear mothers, this may be a new thought to
you, but this very caution, born of love and solici-
tude, creates a fear that may make it possible for
your children to be sick. Let a child lead an active,
rollicking life in harmony with nature, and in himself
will certainly be developed power to resist disease.
It is possible to make health contagious.
"Cheerily, then, my little man,
Live and laugh as boyhood can."
CHAPTER XIX.
ABORTION,
Abortion or miscarriage is the term applied to the
death and expulsion of the fetus previous to six
months; after that and before full term it is called
premature delivery.
The liability to abortion is more frequent at the
beginning and during the third month. It is usually
preceded by occasional loss of blood, which rarely is
excessive at first, but in from three days to three
weeks increases in frequency and quantity until it
may absolutely amount to hemorrhage. The first
symptom in some instances is a violent chill. In such
cases soreness, heat and pain are soon located in the
pelvis and the flowing maybe deferred for a few days.
One may have continuous pain, more or less severe,
until the embryo is expelled; or it may come up at
irregular intervals from day to day for some two or
three weeks, there being such complete intermissions
that the patient hopes each time that all danger is
over, and that gestation may be completed.
The danger to the mother is from hemorrhage
before the expulsion of the embryo, and from reten-
tion of membranes after the fetus is born. These
decaying in the uterus, the poison is absorbed into
the system and septicaemia is the result.
The causes of abortion, both remote and exciting,
i6 (243)
244 CAUSES OF ABORTION.
are numerous. Any diseases of the womb that take
away its vitality or prevent its enlargement will re-
sult in death of the fetus. Any general disease or
condition of the system that results in weakness or
feebleness may make the continuance of life in the
embryo impossible.
Lack of room in the pelvis and abdomen is a fre-
quent cause of abortion in first pregnancies. This is
the resultof tight and heavy clothing and insufficient
exercise. Remaining too much in-doors and suffer-
ing the debilitating effects of impure, heated atmos-
phere, is also a remote cause. The violation of the
laws of sexual congress is another. Immoderation in
this respect is exceedingly harmful, as it diverts from
its needed purpose the mother's energies, and weakens
embryonic life. Any incontinence during pregnancy
endangers a woman who has once miscarried.
The recent causes are lifting, straining, a fall, a jar,
a blow, a violent cold, or an acute attack of disease,
sudden mental emotions, etc. The system so soon
takes on any habit that, having once aborted, one is
very liable to a recurrence of the same results in sub-
sequent pregnancies, at the same period.
To prevent a. miscarriage, observe faithfully the
hygienic rules laid down in this book. Make the
best possible conditions for health in every direction.
Especially observe the law of continence. Once
threatened with abortion, hemorrhage ever so slight
having set in, a woman should by all means take her
bed and observe perfect quiet. She must run no
risks. Apply compresses and take frequent short,
tepid sitz-baths, live on a mild, cooling diet, and the
danger may be averted.
TREATMENT— FETICIDE. 245
Aconite. — Chill or fever, with quick pulse and flow
of bright red blood. Six drops of first dilution in a
glass full of water; take a tablespoonful every hour.
Secale, ^d. — Cramp-like pains, blood clotted and
dark, cadaverous expression of face. Dose: Six
pellets every two hours.
Cimicifuga, 2d. — Pain in the back of the neck, ach-
ing in the limbs, back and groin, with pressing, bear-
ing down. Dose: One grain every two hours.
A woman requires the same attention and treat-
ment during and after a miscarriage that she re-
quires in a confinement. A labor at full term is nat-
ural; a miscarriage is unnatural, and often requires a
longertime for the system to recover from the shock.
Feticide is a produced abortion, whether by drugs,
intentional shocks, electricity, or by instrumental in-
terference, either by one's own hand or by the hand
of a surgeon.
Many women have been taught to think that the
child is not viable until after quickening, and that
there is no harm in arresting pregnancy previous to
the feeling of motion; others believe that there is no
life until birth, and the cry of the child is heard.
A high legal authority says: "The absurdity of
the principle upon which these distinctions are found-
ed is easy of demonstration. The fetus, previous to
the time of quickening, must be either dead or living.
Now, that it is not the former, is most evident from
neither putrefaction nor decomposition takingplace,
which would be the consequence of an extinction of
the vital principle. The embyro, therefore, before
the crisis, must be in a state different from that of
death, and that can be no other than life."
246 INCEPTION OF LIFE.
When the female germ and male sperm unite, then
is the inception of a new life; all that goes to make
up a human being — body, mind and spirit, must be
contained in embryo within this minute organism.
Li/e must be prescmt from the very moment of conception.
If there was not life there could be no conception.
At what other period of a human being's existence,
either pre-natal or post-natal, could the union of soul
and body take place.? Is it not plain that the violent
or forcible deprivation of existence of this embryo,
the removal of it from the citadel of life, is its prema-
ture death, and hence the act can be denominated by
no more mild term than murder, and whoever per-
forms the act, or is accessory to it, in the sight of
God and human law is guilty of the crime of all
crimes.
The life of the babe in her arms is to the mother
more precious than all else; her heart is thrilled with
a pang of agony at thought of the least danger to its
life. By what false reasoning does she convince her-
self that another life, still more dependent upon her
for its existence, with equal rights and possibilities,
has no claim upon her for protection.? More than
this, she deliberately strikes with the red hand of
murder, and terminates its existence with no thought
of wrong, nor consciousness of violated law.
The woman who produces abortion, or allows it to
be produced, risks her own health and life in the act,
and commits the highest crime in the calendar, for
she takes the life of her own child. She defrauds the
child of the right to its existence.
By a wise provision we are placed in this world for
growth, development and preparation for another
INCENTIVES FOR ABORTION. 247
life. As we leave this life, we must enter the other.
In so far as a human being is deprived of this exist-
ence, to that extent he is deprived of schooling and
preparation for the other life. Pause for one moment
and think of the thousands of stunted, dwarfed beings
that are prematurely ushered into an existence that
can not be normal and designed. Were infants
to have been born into spirit life, provision would
have been made to that effect. That they are born
into this life is proof that this world is best adapted
for their growth and education.
There may be no harm in preventing the concep-
tion of a life, but once conceived it should not be de-
prived of its existence in that world which in all its
appointments is specially adapted to its development.
What are some of the incentives to produce abor-»
tion .'' An unmarried woman seduced under falsft
representations by a man who feels no responsibility
for his own offspring, suffers alone all the shame and
contumely of the act, and Is tempted to cause miscar-
riage to shield her good name.
Married women who fear that maternity will inter-,
fere with their pleasures, are guilty of forcibly
curtailing embryotic life. Others, again, who are
poor or are burdened with care or grief, or have
licentious or drunken husbands, shrink from adding
to an already overburdened existence.
The first class, the girls who have lost their virtue
under promise of marriage- -are most deserving of
sympathy and commiseratio.i, though none receive
less. "Let him who is without sin cast the first
stone." At the least imputation against a fair girl's
character, even those professing to be the followers
248 PROTECTIVE CHIVALRY.
of the loving Christ, often have so little leniency, so
little of the Father's love in their hearts, that they
hug their Christian robes to their bodies, lest they be
contaminated by the polluting touch of the victim.
They "pass by on the other side" and leave the pool
broken-hearted child bleeding by the wayside.
The girl's lessons of life and purity have been
learned mainly from one she loved and trusted, only
to be betrayed. What wonder that in her ignorance
of the value of life she should be tempted to add a
second wrong to the first ? She knows the shadow
that has darl^ened her path ; she realizes :
" Alas ! for the rarity
Of Christian charity
Under the sun."
And if she can conceal the evidence of her guilt,
she may hope by honest endeavor to retrieve her
good name, and thus is tempted to produce an
abortion.
Two wrongs can not make one right. Before God
and her own conscience, the only tribunals that in
justice have any right to accuse her, she can not by
any act gain absolution.
When girls are given proper instruction upon the
relation of the sexes and understand how to govern
and guard themselves ; when young men are taught
that virtue has as high a meaning for one sex as an-
other, that the protective chivalry of which they
boast does not imply that they shall force the woman
with whom they associate to the defensive ; and that
the /«/^r?z^2/ interest in, and responsibilities for a child
are equal to the maternal, then the temptation to pro-
PERSONAL PLEASURES. 249
duce abortion for the purpose of shielding one's
character will not exist.
Of the second class, who produce miscarriage for
pleasure and selfish interest, there is little to say in. ex-
tenuation. They may be victims of ignorance or of
a false education. The maternal instinct ib inherent
in every woman's heart. It seems strange that any
morbid idea of pleasure could antagoniz^e the natural
aspiration to such an extent that one could destroy
the viability of her own offspring.
I well remember years ago the wife of a well-to-do
lawyer making application to me to produce abortion.
She had but one child, and he three years of age.
She was surrounded by every comfort a prosperous
business man could afford. I sought the cause of the
unnatural promptings of this intelligent woman's
heart. It seems that a trip to Europe was contem-
plated and planned for in the early summer, and that
this unanticipated and chance maternity would thwart
their expectations. With all the arguments I then
possessed, I showed her the wrong she sought to do,
but nothing seemed to weigh against the proposed
trip. She returned the second and third time even,
armed with a lawyer's sophistry to endeavor to per-
suade me to be accessory to the diabolical deed. No
doubt one cause of her persistency was fear of trust-
ing her secret to me unless she could persuade me to
be an accomplice.
She probably found some one to assist her out of
the " trouble," for she took the proposed trip, but I
was not astonished to learn three or four years later
that she was lying at death's door with consumption.
How many times she produced abortion I know not
250 THE REMEDY.
but I was told that for months she suffered from
uterine hemorrhages and in the weakened state of
her system a violent cold settled upon her lungs
which soon terminated her life. This was the physi-
cal result of the crime she had committed.
Of the last class, who have an apparent need to
limit the size of the family, what can be said in ex-
tenuation of their committing this crime ? Shall not
the mother who already has many children, who is
herself sick, nervous and prostrated, or else has a
husband who is diseased or a drunkard, leaving her
the support of the family, save herself additional care
by arresting the life of the embryo ? The heart goes
out in sympathy for all such, but even the most
aggravating circumstances can not atone for the
crime. The whole nature of every true woman re-
volts against forced maternity.
Thoughtful minds must acknowledge the great
wrong done when children are begotten under ad-
verse conditions. Women must learn the laws of life
so as to protect themselves, and not be the means of
bringing sin-cursed, diseased children into the world.
T/ie remedy is in the preventioji of pregnancy, not in
producing abortion. When men and women have
learned the wise control of the procreative functions,
then may we hope that children will be begotten in
love and unselfishness. It is the undesired and unde-
signed maternity that is revolting to the nature of
woman. As long as men feel that they have a right
to indulgence of the passions under law, no matter
what the circumstances, what the condition of the
wife, or the probabilities of maternity, so long will
the spirit of rebellion take possession of women and
UNWELCOME CHILDREN. 2$ I
the temptation enter their souls to relieve themselves
of this unsought burden. May the day soon arrive
when men will learn that even passion should serve
reason, and that gratification should, at least, not be
sought at the expense of conjugal happiness and un-
welcome children.
CHAPTER XX.
MENSTRUATION.
Menstruation is the sanguineous flow accom-
panying the maturation of the ovum in the ovaries.
It generally occurs regularly every twenty-eight
days, and in temperate climates continues from about
the fifteenth year to the forty-fifth.
Physiologists differ as to the cause of this phenom-
enon. It was for a long time believed to be a cleans-
ing process peculiar to women; that Eve, having
through her transgression entailed upon her daugh-
ters a curse, they needed more renovation and regen-
eration than men; and that aside from ordinary de-
purition this special secretion was given to them.
The theory now prevails that accompanying the
maturation of the ovum there is a flow of blood to
the generative organs, which in medical parlance if
called hyperemia. The exudation of this venouS
blood from the membrane of the uterus constituted
menstruation; also that this menstruation is a pro-
vision of nature for the supply of a superabundance
of blood, which during pregnancy is appropriated to
the growth of the fetus. Thus is it allied to maternity
leading us to regard this function with reverence.
In a normal state the discharge is slight, being from
one to three ounces, and lasts two or three days.
yj Certain physiologists claim that all sanguineous
(252)
NORMAL MENSTRUATION. 253
flow is abnormal, that there should be no show of
blood in a perfectly healthy woman. It is averred
that the squaws of some Indian tribes have no show
accompanying either ovulation or parturition.
Menstruation should be entirely devoid of suffer-
ing. A woman should have no cognizance of this
function, save by the discharge. Could this be the
rule, instead of the prevalent exception, the capacity
of strength and endurance either for work or pleasure
would be increased one hundred fold. The nation not
only needs strong men but strong women, strong in
physical as well as mental development. This strength
is required for prosecuting a persistent warfare against
prevailing and existing wrongs, as well as for trans-
mitting health and vigor to the coming generation.
A woman in perfect health need take no especial
care and make no change in her manner of life at this
period. But under our artificial habits of life, such a
woman is the exception rather than the rule, and in
most cases some attention must be paid to the recur-
rence of the menses.
Many young ladies in attendance upon school, feel
a need of some indulgence at that time, and are often
granted respite from duty. Women following any
regular occupation have learned to plan a day of
lighter work at the recurrence of the period. Yet
on the contrary some have found that congestion and
pain are relieved by occupation sufficient to interest
the mind, with exercise adapted to increase the
circulation.
The disorders incident to menstruation are:
Amenorrhea, Dysmenorrhea and Menorrhagia.
Amenorrhea is absence or suppression of the menses
254 DISORDERS Or- MENSTRUATION,
caused by cold, a chronic ailment, an enemic condi-
tion or some ovarian or uterine affection. It is also
often the result of mental conditions, as grief, fright
or severe mental strain.
One need not be uneasy about suppression when
there is no special constitutional disturbance. Our
grandmothers taught that the absence of the menses
was always greatly to be feared, the prevailing idea
being that serious results would follow to some vital
organ. This is a mistake.
Patients during treatment for uterine ulceration
and inflammation often gain steadily in health, al-
though the menses cease for months. This has been
observed especially in hygienic institutions.
At all events, in treating suppression avoid strong
remedies, such as old-fashioned tansy tea, steel fil-
ings and ergot. These produce congestion, and may
be the source of severe chronic ailments.
See to it that a general condition of health is at-
tained. With plenty of out-door exercise, congenial
employment and freedom from care, the young girl
may, with rare exceptions, trust to nature for correc-
tion of suppression.
Dysmenorrhea, or painful menstruation, is of such
frequent occurrence that it deserves especial atten-
tion. Most young ladies experience more or less
suffering at this time. It may be only nervousness,
wakeful nights, a slight headache, some pain in the
back or pelvic regions, and a disposition to be alone;
or the attacks may be severe, with pain in the back
and pelvis, running down into the limbs; the surface
and extremities cold, face palid, with nausea, vomit-
ing or fainting, and perhaps spasms.
CAUSES OF DYSMENORRHEA. 255
This ought not to be, and, in most instances, need
not be. With our present knowledge, the conditions
for and causes of dysmenorrhea may be removed.
Among causes we find inflammation of the ovaries,
oviducts, or mucous membrane of the womb, mechan-
ical closure of the outlet of the womb, or, simply
constipation, neuralgia or rheumatism.
With inflammation of the ovaries there is, pre-
vious to the recurrence of the menses and through-
out its course, a dragging pain in the pelvis with
swelling and soreness of the breasts, and more or less
mental distress. These symptoms are not always
relieved by the flow.
Inflammation of the mucous membrane of the uterus
is the most frequent cause of dysmenorrhea. With
this the pain begins with the flow and increases as the
flow increases. There may be a discharge of shreds of
membrane or clotted blood, and sometimes a mem-
brane having the entire form of the cavity of the
womb. This is produced by deposits of fibrine, like
that of membranous croup.
When there is undue closure of the cervix the pain
precedes the menstrual flow, and is relieved as the
discharge becomes free.
The remote causes for dysmenorrhea are errors in
dress and diet, want of exercise, etc.
To errors in womatis dress more than any other one
thing is the unnatural pain due. Women are bur-
dened with heavy clothing, and every vital organ
restricted by bands and bones. It is not unusual to
count from sixteen to eighteen thicknesses of cloth
worn so tightly about the pliable structure of the
waist that actual deformity is produced.
256 NO ROMPING ALLOWED !
The pelvis and chest are naturally well guarded
from intrusion by the ribs and pelvic bones. But
just at the point where belts are adjusted there is no
protecting wall. Thus these parts are easily de-
formed, consequently digestion becomes imperfect,
the circulation obstructed, the respiration restricted,
and what is worse than all, the viscera crowd down
upon the womb, the citadel of life.
Thus, by abuse, the maternal organism fails of ful-
filling the divine charge committed to it by the
Creator. The wonder is that intelligent, educated
woman has ordinarily no thought of her relation to
posterity, and her responsibility to offspring.
Exercises adapted to develop the muscles of the
trunk and abdomen, giving breathing power and
room for all the viscera will be found very satisfac-
tory in their results, to women who will arrange their
clothing suitably.
The restraint placed upon young girls, according
to the usages of society, at the time when they most
need exercise and muscular development, is not only
mistaken wisdom, but a cruel physical wrong. They
'must be ladylike ! So, perforce, they must not jump
nor skip ; they must not run up stairs two steps at a
time, like a boy. No rompi7ig allowed ! The physical
freedom which is everywhere accorded to a boy, and
by which he, all unconsciously fits himself for man-
hood, is forbidden the girl.
So she grows up without strength of nerve or mus-
cle, and readily becomes a victim to all the ills that
woman is heir to.
A very little care and planning devoted to this
subject would bring to women both health and hap-
MISS alcott's rose. 257
piness. Like Rose, in Miss Alcott's delightful story,
a naturally frail girl may be developed into a hearty
and vigorous young woman, and this too without un-
duly subjecting her to the mortification of singularity.
Neither is it necessary, in order to preserve health,
that her thorough education should be neglected. The
hue and cry that has been raised against the higher
education of woman, on the ground of her physical
incapacity to endure severe mental training, is not
well founded.
The fact is that girls and women can bear study,
but they can not bear compressed viscera, tortured
stomachs and a misplaced uterus. The impure air,
almost universal in schoolrooms, has much to answer
for in the alleged incapacity of girls for mental wear
and tear. Given pure air, the Delsarte training,
loose and light clothing and unimpaired digestion,
and our girls will in due time prove to the world that,
notwithstanding a vigorous pursuit of study, " a girl
is just as good as a boy."
Out-door games and amusements are becoming
more and more fashionable. Among these lawn
tennis, croquet, archery, rowing, bean-bags and tri-
cycling are popular and healthful in their tendency.
Next to errors in dress and deficient exercise^ errors
in diet may be responsible for painful menstruation.
How can this be ? Once, on inquiring of a class of
young ladies the cause of this trouble, I received
various replies ; as skating, jumping rope, climbing
stairs, improper clothing, etc.
A little eleven-year-old girl raising her hand, asked:
" Is it not eating too much candy ? " The rest of the
girls laughed. But I replied, " You need not smile ;
25J HEAT BETTER THAN ALCOHOL.
this young lady has sounded the keynote of your
trouble. It is not only too much candy, but you eat
too freely of the carbonaceous foods, fats and sweets,
without taking sufficient exercise to have them appro-
priated. Inflammation is the result and hence suffer-
ing ensues."
Treatment for dysmenorrhea must be palliative
and curative. No young girl should be allowed to
endure this pain. It gives a shock to the nervous
system, which sooner or later will act upon her gen-
eral health, and depreciate her vitality.
In palliative treatment it has been customary to
use alcoholic stimulant in some form. Symptoms at
first are relieved, the blood being caused to flow to
the surface, thus lessening congestion. The patient
is made perhaps not actually drunk, but is stupefied.
My observation, however, is that menstrual pain re-
moved by this agency, recurs more severely at sub-
sequent periods. The reason of this must be that
the alcoholic stimulant increases the already inflamed
condition. It is not good treatment.
The application of heat in some form will safely re-
lieve almost any case. A relay of hot lamp chimneys
is available in sudden attacks, even if at night ; or a
hot plate or stove-lid, wrapped in cloths is excellent
in an emergency. In more severe cases, use hot
iomentations (Page 1 14) or the hot water bottle.
A hot sitz-bath (Page 1 84) is the best resort where
cramp-like symptoms with vomiting or fainting are
experienced, or where the patient is threatened with
spasms. Anticipate suffering by this treatment as
soon as indicated by premonitory symptoms. Con-
tinue the bath until a copious perspiration is induced,
A CASE OF RHEUMATISM. 2Sg
probably from thirty minutes to an hour. Then rub
off lightly without exposure, keeping wrapped in the
blankets, and applying the hot water bottle, lie quietly
for some time. Many who ordinarily suffer from three
to five days can be relieved in one hour by this means
alone. This course will prevent a recurrence of so
severe an attack.
The curative measures employea musr accord with
the pathological condition of the patient. For local
ailments, treatments must be that indicated for them;
neuralgia and rheumatism will demand their own
suitable remedial agents.
A lady, thirty-five years of age, had been for a long
time a great sufferer at every menstrual period, five
or six days being spent in bed each month. There
was apparently no uterine disease. Ordinary treat-
ment proved ineffectual. A casual inquiry at length
disclosed the fact that she had long been afflicted
with rheumatism, not confined to any locality. This
gave a clue to her case, and a short treatment for
this affection resulted in entire recovery from both
that malady and the distressing menstrual attacks.
The thermal bath (Page Ii8) was mainly depended
on in her cure.
Local treatmeut or remedies will seldom be found
necessary, if the whole system is kept in the best hy-
gienic condition. A young woman had for nine years
been a martyr to dysmenorrhea, spasms attending
every period, often continuing for days. Like the
woman in Scripture, "She had suffered many things
of many physicians, and had spent all that she had,
and was nothing bettered, but rather grew worse,"
having had in all nine doctors, one of whom had per-
17
26o A COMMON CASE.
formed a severe operation. Although still young,
she was almost a perfect wreck. She had no strength
for manual labor, often being unable to walk across
the room. Her mental condition was equally deplor-
able, being scarcely able to do for herself. She was
very sensitive to the cold, and consequently wore
much heavy clothing suspended around her hips.
In her case few remedies were used. She was in-
duced to make a radical change in her dress, and put
upon a thorough course of exercises adapted to de-
velop and invigorate the muscles of the abdomen,
and insure a healthy action of the viscera. She was
also encouraged to assist daily in light housework,
with much free exercise in the open air.
The change was marvelous. Upon the recurrence
of her next period, a hot sitz-bath was administered
at the first symptoms of distress, and relief was
speedy. Her improvement steadily continued; she
was no longer agonized with pain and subject to con-
vulsions. Before the three months of her treatment
had expired, she was entirely restored to health.
The alteration in her appearance was great, buoy-
ancy of manner and vivacity of expression taking the
place of the look of dumb hopelessness which had
been hers. The leaden load of physical suffering was
lifted from her brain, and a new mental life began.
No patient could evince or express more hearty and
grateful appreciation of the great change which had
been wrought.
This is only one of many instances illustrating the
efficacy of simple hygienic methods. The cases are
infrequent that will fail to respond favorably when
nature is given an opportunity to rally her forces.
REMEDIES IN MENSTRUATION. 261
MenorrhagiayOT'^roixxsQ menstruation, accompanies
inflammation, ulceration, polypus and other uterine
diseases. It is not unusual to find it with dysmen-
orrhea, as it may be induced by the same causes.
The general treatment and remedies are similar in
both disorders.
Aconitum, crude tincture. — This is one of the first
remedies to be sought in any kind of hemorrhage,
especially where there is throbbing pulse, with cold
hands and feet. Dose: — Two drops in half a glass of
water, tablespoon doses every ten to thirty minutes,
according to severity of case. It is important to re-
member that aconite is a number one remedy in the
first stages of hemorrhage from any organ. One
can hardly go amiss in giving it. It has a specific
effect in controlling the heart's action, and thus re-
lieves congestion and hemorrhage. An old lady had
for twenty years been subject to frequent attack?
of hemorrhage of the lungs. She never allowed her-
self to be without her bottle ofaconite, and was
always able to check an attack by using it promptly.
Aco7iitu'my 2d. — Is also indicated in cases of inflam-
.nation or congestion of the uterus or ovaries, es-
pecially if attended with febrile symptoms.
Cimicifuga, 2d. — Heavy, aching pain in the back,
extending to limbs, restlessness, cannot keep still.
Rheumatic or neuralgic dysmenorrhea. It is also
valuable for preparatory treatment, taken two or
three doses a day for ten days previous to the recur-
rence of the period.
Belladonna, 2d. — Congestive enlargement of the
uterus or ovaries, bearing down pains, aafi heat in
the vagina.
262 REMEDIES IN MENSTRUATION.
Pulsatilla, 2d. — Vomiting, fainting, scanty menses,
chilliness, moving pains in abdomen, mental depres-
sion, hysteria. Discharges bright in color.
Caulophyllum, 2d. — Painful menstruation, with a
normal discharge. May be used as a palliative dur-
ing the menses, and as a curative agent meanwhile.
Et'got, jd to 6th. — Very severe, cramp-like pains,
can not be endured. Discharge dark, clotted and
fetid; surface and extremities cold; features pinched.
Dose: — In each of the above remedies ten drops in
eight spoonfuls of water. Take one spoonful every
half hour.
CHAPTER XXI.
DISEASES OF WOMEN.
Uterine diseases are the cause of many of the
pathological symptoms accompanying pregnancy,
and may be the cause of the pain in parturition. To
attain to the best conditions for maternity, the re-
moval of these disorders is essential.
Nine-tenths of American women are more or less
afflicted with these maladies. They are thus unfitted
for ordinary vocations, and the functions of repro-
duction are so perverted that maternity becomes ^
dreaded burden.
This book is not a " doctor book " in the ordinary
understanding of that term, neither is this chapter a
regular treatise upon the diseases of women. The
causes of these ailments, however, and some simple
common sense hints are given. These will enable
women to avoid and to alleviate suffering, without
resorting to drugs, or severe local treatment.
Inflammation is the most common derangement
of the uterus ; indeed, some authors claim that it
causes or accompanies all other uterine diseases.
Inflammation may affect either the mucous mem-
brane, the cervix or the fundus, or the entire organ
may be involved. When the lining membrane only
is affected, the patient has heat and burning in the
pelvis; with or without pain, and there is a light,
(263)
264 INFLAMMATION — ULCERATION.
glairy discharge which later may become dark and
offensive and often irritating.
Inflammation in the fundus or cervix gives at first
a dragging, heavy pain in the pelvis, extending down
the thighs and legs, with heat and pain in the lower
part of the back. It is also attended with swelling
of the organ and more or less discharge.
As the disease progresses there are usually sym-
pathetic or reflex symptoms. These are heat and
pain in the top of the head, aching, sore pain at the
base of the brain, a pain and burning between the
shoulders, which may extend up and down the spine,
and to the arms. Physician and patient both are
often deceived, and diagnose this last symptom as
neuralgia or spinal complaint. The patient may
have stricture and pain in the throat, with a dry, ner-
vous cough. She also is liable to severe attacks of
headache, suffers from dyspepsia, and indeed her
symptoms are apt to assume the form of, or resemble
any disease.
Her mental sufferings are even worse than her
physical. She has loss of memory, is fretful and irri-
table. Carried to the extreme, her mind becomes
unbalanced and insanity results. Statistics show that
uterine disease is a very common cause of insanity
in women.
Ulceration is usually found upon the mouth of the
womb, or occasionally on the lining membrane. TJie
raspberry ulceration is the most common form. This
appears like granulation on the eyelids, and is
always preceded and accompanied by inflammation.
The surface becomes red, swollen and then abraded,
resultiner in ulcers. This is accompanied by a thick,
ERRORS IN DRESS. 26$
purulent, yellow discharge, which, as the disease
advances, becomes thin and bloody, with an offensive
odor. The pain and reflex symptoms are much the
same as in inflammation.
Induration, or thickening and hardening of the
cervix is a frequent sequel of inflammation, especially
were caustic treatment has been used.
Violations of physical laws cause the occurrence of
the above named diseases.
Women take it as a matter of course that the
organs of generation should be diseased, without one
thought of their responsibility in the matter. Physi-
cians, too, as specialists, treat woman much as though
she were a machine to be adjusted at will.
Errors in dress, in diet, want of exercise and the
abuse of the sexual relation are the principal causes
of these ailments. The frequent use of drugs that act
directly upon the generative organs induce and en-
hance these affections.
There is no doubt that the customary dress of
woman, causing such deformity, and such perversion
of all her powers, is the prime factor in producing ail-
ments peculiar to her sex.
Being unequal in distribution, it leaves the extrem-
ities unprotected ; by pressure it restricts digestion,
respiration and circulation, while by its weight it bur-
dens the weakened muscles.
Who has the power to save women from this one
sin } Who has the pen or voice to present the claims
of unborn generations .'* Many women who have suf-
fered years from uterine diseases have finally re-
covered by simply adopting a hygienic dress. One
thing is certain ; it matters not what treatment one
266 HINTS FOR TREATMENT.
takes for these ailments, she can not hope to get well
and keep well if she does not remove the restraints of
clothing. (See Chap. VII.)
In diet, highly seasoned food, rich pastries, and in-
deed all food containing in excess the carbonaceous
elements, especially the fats and sweets, will produce
an inflammatory condition. Some irritating cause
locates the affection in certain organs. Constipation
also will induce and aggravate any uterine affection.
The treatment of these disorders should be less
local than constitutional. The whole system must
have the best conditions for health, giving nature a
chance to restore harmony in organic powers.
The tepid sitz-bath will be found invaluable in both
inflammation and ulceration of the womb. It should
be taken in most cases as often as every other day,
preceded by exercise, and followed by friction and
rest. Half the value of this bath is lost if one fails to
lie down after it. The best time for the bath is in
the forenoon, but if, on account of daily duties, this
time is unavailable, there is no special objection to
taking it just before retiring. It is very quieting, and
prevents sleeplessness.
The thermal bath (page ii8) is especially desirable
if the circulation seems sluggish, the skin inert, and
the patient sensitive to cold. Take it twice a week.
Hot vaginal injections are found invaluable for these
affections. They should be taken with a fountain
syringe, using a large quantity of water as hot as can
be borne. If practicable the patient may recline over
a bed pan. Not having this, she should stand over a
vessel, elevated upon a chair. If the discharge from
the womb is offensive, use carbolic soap in the water.
BEST TREATMENT 267
Glycerine diluted one-third with watei . atad applied
by inserting absorbent cottton or oakunii, is excellent
to reduce inflammation and induration. This at first
increases the discharge. In severe cases it can be
applied daily, but ordinarily every other day is suffi-
cient. Some mild remedies like hydrastis or calen-
dula are useful in stimulating healthy action, and can
be used under the direction of the physician.
Exercise is one of the most valuable therapeutic
measures for uterine affections. If one is quite fee-
ble, applied motion in the form of Swedish move-
ments, massage or muscle-beating is most desirable.
Women suffering from uterine diseases are unable to
take needful exercise in an erect position. Walking,
riding, housework, etc., aggravate the symptoms, in-
creasing the local irritation and inflammation.
In most women the muscles of the trunk or the
abdomen, and the involuntary muscles of respiration,
from lack of proper use, are weak and atrophied.
"They have not been trained to life's occasions."
The following exercises, taken in a reclining posture,
will serve the purpose of producing attrition and
vigor of muscles, accelerating the circulation of the
blood, and developing the involuntary muscles used
in respiration; at the same time they increase the ac-
tion of all the digestive organs, and by a derivative
effect remove local inflammation, beside^ mechani-
cally correcting mal-positions:
1. Reclining on back, holding knees and shoulders
firm, move hips from side to side ten times.
2. Same position, on spring bed, move hips up
and down fifteen times. This exercise can be taken
by one that is weak, as the springs aid the motion.
268 VALUABLE EXERCISE.
3. Flex knees, same as No. i, twenty times.
4. Flex knees, same as No. 2, twenty times.
5. Flex the knees and sway them from side to side
twenty times.
6. Flex the knees and elevate the hips, resting the
body on shoulders and feet. Move slowly up and
down ten times, holding to count ten.
7. Elbows flexed to the sides, hands grasped by an
assistant and slowly brought to a horizontal position
parallel with the head, patient resisting. Bring them
back to the sides, assistant resisting, ten times.
8. Same, only bring arms to a perpendiculaf
position.
9. Reclining, face downward, flex knees and sway
feet from right to left fifteen times.
10. With the help of an assistant, flex and extend
the limbs, using resistance as in No. 7.
11. Rest on elbows, and sway shoulders from right
to left ten times.
12. Elevate the body slowly five times, resting
only on toes and elbows. Hold to count ten.
13. Recline on back and make hand thrusts, with
or without weights, upward, outward, forward and
downward.
14. Same position, flex and thrust the limbs down-
ward alternately.
15. Kneel face downward, gradually raise the hips
until the whole weight rests upon the shoulders.
Remain in this position for five minutes. This is in-
valuable for prolapsus and retroversion, and should
be resorted to several times a day. One may get the
position more readily by sliding off from a bed or
lounge head first; relatively, stai;iding on one's head.
VALUABLE EXERCISES. 269
16. Lie face downward on two stools, 18 to 24
inches apart, resting the knees upon one and the
shoulders upon the other, five minutes.
17. Same position; have an assistant knead the
bowels by gentle pressure with clenched fists five
minutes.
18. Same position, elevating hips five times.
The last three are quite severe, but if there is
strength to adopt them, they are valuable in retro-
version of the womb.
If there is no pelvic inflammation, and it is required
to aid digestion and develop the muscles of trunk,
the following are invaluable:
19. Sit upon a stool, feet firmly upon the floor,
hands upon sides, hips firm; sway body from side to
side as far as possible.
20. Same position, hands clasped over the head;
sway body backward and forward.
21. Same position; combine Nos. 19 and 20 m a
twisting motion of the body. The effect of the
three last can be varied by holding one or both hands
perpendicularly over the head.
22. 23, 24. Same as 19, 20 and 21, only standing
position.
The beneficial effects are increased in the six last
by inflating the lungs.
The severe caustic treatmemt that has been
so universal in these affections is greatly to be de-
precated. There are fashions in medicines as in other
things, and the one fashion the last twenty-five years
has been local treatment for diseases of women. In
no department of medical practice has the physi-
cian's prerogative been more abused. For the slight-
270 CAUSTIC TREATMENT.
est ailments the severest applications are often em-
ployed. Nitrate of silver^ sulphate of zinc, corrosive
sublimate, tannic acid, nitric acid, all violent in their
action, are in common use. Physicians are known
to resort frequently to the application of a probe,
heated to a white heat, and, what is just as bad, to
wet a swab in fuming nitric acid, and introduce it
into the womb. The delicate mucus membrane is
burned and scarified, the patient tortured, and the
nerves receive a severe shock. Patients able to be
about are often laid up for several days by one of
these treatments.
One day I met a lady upon the street who had
been confined to the house for two years. I ex-
pressed pleasure at seeing her out. She told me that
she could get out because her doctor was absent and
her local treatment suspended. She said: "That
always makes me sick in bed three or four days."
"What! do you permit such treatment.-*"
"The doctor says I cannot get well without it."
She, like many other poor suffering women, was
persuaded that all this torture was necessary to her
final recovery.
Physicians are known to keep women under treat-
ment two or three years, yet frequently, instead of
improvement, there is only a constant decline in
health and strength.
The tide is now turning, and both physicians and
patients begin to see that a great wrong has been
done. So high an authority as Dr. Gaillard Thomas
says: "Every one who has had experience in the
treatment of these disorders must have been im-
pressed with the wonderful improvement in cases
EMINENT TESTIMONY. 2/1
which have long resisted local treatment^ resulting from
a sea voyage, a visit to a watering place, a course of
sea bathing, or a few months spent in the country."
Dr. George T.Elliott says: — "In cases of uter-
ine diseases, the best success will be attained by
securing for patients a life of muscular activity, so
equalizing the circulation. And that thus the local
treatment, now so much in vogue, might commonly
be dispensed with."
" It is easy for a sensitive woman to persuade her-
self that her afflictions from the toothache downward,
are due to diseases of the womb. Here comes in the
charlatan, to exaggerate the disease, if any, and to
beguile the patient with promises of cure. The
speculum, the caustic and the knife look like work,
and she feels that something is being done for her.
" By and by the bubble bursts, and for all the good
that this torture has accomplished, the poor woman
might as well have adopted the scientific treatment
of La-potai, namely, the application of a blister to
the top of the head, to raise the fallen womb."
Dr. E. R. Peaslee says of local treatments : "They
have thus far produced, on the whole, more evil than
good."
Dr. Taylor, in his valuable little volume, " Health
for Women," assures us " that by using mere local
treatment, the essential disease itself is left neglected,
untouched, and even unsought; that symptoms only
command the attention, and they will subside and
become of trifling account whenever the essential
malady is recognized and provided for."
Such words as these, from men high in the pro-
fession, give hope of a tendency to a reaction from
272 HOrEFUL RESULTS.
the prevalent dependence on local treatment. When
such men take the back course, and condemn their
own uterine surgery, hope may arise for long-suffer-
ing woman. This heal treatment should be protested
against by zvomen. It is a relic of the past, and is
contrary to science and common sense.
Within the memory of many now living, every
patient under treatment for acute or chronic diseases
was bled. He was also tortured by blisters, leeches
and setons. Had he fever, he was denied water to
quench his thir.'it. How the mother's heart has been
wrung with anguish when her darling babe, lying
sick in her arms, has pleaded again and again for
water.? Who has not heard "Drink! mamma, drink!"
and turned to hide the sympathetic tear, for, by the
doctor's orders, the little one must be denied!
To-day, where is the physician who bleeds his
patient, and applies the blister "> Many young doc-
tors have never even seen a leech. Who would think
of denymg the fever patient water, and all that he
desires } What has wrought this change } Mainly
the protest of the people. Reforms in medical prac-
tice have come because the people have demanded
them.
Severe local treatment should be classed with the
bleeding and blistering, and, with them, be relegated
to the past. Women must protest positively and per-
sistently against the burning, probing and scarifying
of the womb. As you value health and life, seek such
measures for restoration as are more in accordance
with nature. With these diseases as with others the
simplest measures are the most effective.
Leuchorrhea is not a disease, it is only a symptom
DISPLACEMENTS. 273
of uterine derangement, as a cough is of a lung or
throat affection. It is an increase of the normal mu-
cus secretion, being an effort of nature to throw off
inflammation. As a symptom it need cause no un-
easiness, and should not be interfered with, unless by
an occasional warm vaginal bath to insure cleanliness.
The conditions which cause the discharge being re-
moved, it will give no farther annoyance.
At all events styptics and astringents should not be
resorted to. They only arrest the discharge tem-
porarily, and do not remove the cause. The general
and local treatment for inflammation is usually suf-
ficient. Remember that as long as the uterine irrita-
tion exists one is better to have this discharge than
to have it suppressed.
The displacements of the uterus most frequently
found are prolapsus, retroversion and anteversion-
Very much the same causes induce these different
deviations. The supporting muscles in the perineum
become weakened, it may be from a lack of exercise,
or from the constant pressure of hardened feces,
consequent upon constipation, or sometimes as the
result of long continued inflammation.
The viscera are pressed down from above by the
stricture and weight of clothing. The mobility of
the organ renders it susceptible to change of position
under these circumstances.
These conditions must be overcome, or treatment
will prove futile. In most cases the uterus can be
readily restored to its natural position. First remove
the pressure from above, and then take the exercises
prescribed on page 267. This will give room for the
pelvic viscera, and strengthen the supporting muscles.
274 PESSARIES— HYSTERIA.
Nature's recuperative powers are never more re-
markably demonstrated.
The prevailing custom of introducing pessaries of
rubber, glass, etc., is to be deprecated. While they
may give temporary relief, they increase the relaxa-
tion of the vagina and muscles, besides constantly
drawing the attention of the patient to her ailment.
The connection of mind and thought with pelvic
disorders is close, and is susceptible of becoming per-
manently fixed upon any organ. The effect is highly
injurious. It must result in increasing this kind of
morbid action, thus fixing and perpetuating the dis-
ease. This should most carefully be guarded against.
In every way divert her mind from the subject. Let
her but forget that she has a womb, and she will have
found the best remedy for her affection.
Hysteria is only a culmination or exaggeration
of the reflex or nervous symptoms in diseases of the
uterus. It is simply temporary insanity, and should
be treated as such. The patient loses self-control, and
gives way to violent paroxysms of laughing or cry-
ing, possibly fainting fits and convulsions.
Some quiet, decisive means will restore her. In-
halation of ammonia, cold water on the head, a hot
foot bath, a full bath, or even a decided word from a
friend readily establishes her balance. The spoken
word must not be given in a combative spirit, but
simply with cheerfulness and decision. Banish fear
from your own heart, and agitation from your manner,
and then say to the patient, "Why, you are all right!
Listen to me a moment." Get her attention, then
with tact relate some incident, or make some start-
ling statement that will change the current of her
MIND CONTROLS THE BODY. 275
thought. To prevent the attacks, treat the uterine
affection from which they arise.
The mind can rise superior to the body in uterine
affections, as in all other bodily ailments, and thus
aid in establishing harmony. One can, by persistent
argument with himself, conquer or dispel the thought
of pain or disease. Also, by engaging in some work
which calls forth the highest impulses.
By seeking to ennoble and enrich the lives of
others, by ignoring personal sense and pleasure, the
soul, the egOy becomes in harmony with the spirit of
the universe, and this harmony should give health of
body, as well as peace of mind.
The body is only a reflection of the spirit, is con-
stantly and entirely subject to it, and if the spirit rises
above error, discord and sin, dwelling in the realm
of truth and love, disease and infirmity of the flesh
cannot exist.
1^
CHAPTER XXIL
CHANGE OF LIFE.
Change of life is one of the scape-goats of phy-
sicians and bugbears of patients. If any lady from
thirty-five to fifty-five years of age is afflicted with
dyspepsia, neuralgia, rheumatism, consumption or
any other ailment, the doctor, not being able to cure
her, pronounces it the meno-pause, or "change of
life," and that time alone can bring relief. Most
women plan and expect to give up from eight to ten
years of the best part of their lives to this climacteric
period. They consider themselves of little account
for business or social duties. They must be petted
and nursed, and have every passing whim gratified.
The meno-pause is simply a cessation of ovulation.
It is the exhaustion of the germ-making power. If a
woman menstruates because of the jnonthly ovula-
tion and deposit, she will cease to menstruate because
ovulation has ceased to be a physiological operation.
At puberty the ovaries enlarge. When fully de-
veloped they begin casting off each month perfected
ovula, which are taken up by the fimbriated extremi-
ties of the oviducts and conveyed to the uterus.
This function of the uterus continues on an average
thirty-two years. After the meno-pause begins the
ovaries become small and shriveled, resembling "
Qtach stone in shape and appearance.
(276)
SYMPTOMS OF MENO-PAUSE. 27/
"At the same time that the ovaries are undergoing
this remarkable degenerative change, a similar change
is taking place in the other organs of generation.
The uterus diminishes in size, as does also the vagina.
The mouth of the womb becomes contracted and
after a time entirely closed. The upper part of the
vagina is often contracted to such a degree as to pro-
duce folds closely resembling those which result
from serious inflammation about the uterus. The
breasts usually diminish in size. These changes indi-
cate unmistakably the decline of the function of re-
production, preparatory to its entire suspension.
"As a rule, the capability of procreation ceases
with the cessation of menstruation; but this is not
universally the case. Instances are on record in
which pregnancy has occurred before the appearance
of menstruation. This seeming anomaly is due to the
fact that ovulation and menstruation are really two
distinct acts, although usually coincident."
Although menstruation usually ceases from the
forty-fifth to the fiftieth year, cases are on record in
which "change of life" occurred at much earlier, as
well as later periods. Dr. T. J. Patchen relates a
remarkable case where a girl ceased menstruation at
twenty-two, accompanied by all the physical changes
of the organism as well as attended by the usual
symptoms of that period. Cases are recorded where
menstruation continued with regularity until the
seventieth year, and the reproductive function re-
mained unimpaired.
In a state of health the meno-pause should be at-
tended by no unpleasant symptom, by no change
from the normal cond.'tion. Ordinarily all the suffer-
278 IRREGULARITY— HOT FLASHES.
ings and ailments incident to this period can be
accounted for from some ovarian or uterine disease,
dyspepsia, or other deviation from health. Irrita-
tion or congestion in the ovaries, more than any
other cause, decides the numerous symptoms of the
climacteric. Uterine inflammation or derangement
also causes many of the distressing ailments of the
meno-pause.
Irregularity in menstruation may be looked for
about the forty-fourth year in temperate climates. In
the torrid zone, where girls menstruate as early as the
tenth or twelfth year, it may occur much earlier. But
in this country it is often delayed even far beyond
the fiftieth year.
There may be occasional absence of the menses, or
it may first be indicated by frequent and profuse
menstruation. In rare cases the menses cease sud-
denly, without any warning or any special derange-
ment. Women often feel alarmed at the sudden
suspension of this discharge, but their fears are
groundless if all other functions are normal. With
some women the flow is alternately scanty and pro-
fuse for months.
The length of time in which these symptoms occur
is extremely variable. It may be only a few months
or it may be several years. In extreme cases the
symptoms have continued nearly twenty years. The
average period, however, is about three years.
These changes are accompanied by various path-
ological symptoms. Hot flashes or "flushings" are
especially peculiar to this period. First one feels a
decided glow or heat, as if suddenly transported to a
hot room; this is soon followed by a perspiration
PROFUSE PERSPIRATION— HEMORRHAGE. 279
which may terminate in a chill. They are often ac-
companied with a sense of suffocation or violent
throbbing. The phenomenon is precisely the same
as blushing, and indeed this may be said to be a sort
of pathological blushing.
With some the chill is the precursor of the " hot
spell." The flashes occur at all times of day, and
often one awakens with them in the night. They
may occur but two or three times a day or every ten
or fifteen minutes, making one wretched by their fre-
quency. They are often the result of some sudden
emotion as fright, anger, grief or anxiety. They
are wonderfully the product of thought. By obser-
vation the patient will notice that they are also more
frequent after drinking wine, tea and coffee, or par-
taking of stimulating food. Sometimes nausea and
vomiting accompany flushings, as well as a feeling of
weakness and fualaise.
Profuse perspiration, sometimes so copious as to
saturate the bed clothing, is also a common symp-
tom of this period. This may follow the hot flushes
or occur independently, but occurs more usually dur-
ing sleep. It may accompany mental excitement
of any kind.
Uterine Hemorrhage, common to the "change of
life," is the only peculiar symptom which really need
cause any special anxiety. This may occur once a
month or at longer intervals, or may be almost con-
stant. It may become so profuse as to endanger the
life of the patient. Indeed, one is often surprised
that life can be sustained under the great loss of blood
that some experience.
The appetite is sometimes capricious and fitful, as
28o TUMORS— MENTAL SYMPTOMS.
during pregnancy, or at the beginning of menstrua-
tion. Frequent derangements of stomach, liver and
kidneys occur.
Skin diseases, often accompanying this period, are
especially distressing from being attended with great
itching. One also may have constipation, ordiarrhea,
swelled limbs or Joints, swelled breasts, headaches,
with heat and burning in top of the head or a sore
pain at base of the brain ; dizziness, dimness of vision
with floating specks before the eyes, loss of voice and
aching at the base of the tongue, insomnia, strange
cravings, difficult breathing, neuralgia, hysteria, etc.
Tumors, caticers, polypi, etc., are more frequent dur-
ing the meno-pause than at any other time of life. If
the neck of the womb has been injured by attempts
at abortion or indurations caused by frequent applica-
tions of caustics, conditions are produced that are
liable to result in cancer.
" The mental symptoms are quite as marked and
prominent in most cases as are those which relate to
any part of the system. Loss of memory to a greater
or less extent is apt to be first and most noticeable.
Frequently there is an entire and most remarkable
change in disposition. A kind, patient mother, or for-
bearing, confiding, exemplary wife, becomes irritable,
unreasonable and suspicious.
" Her natural modesty may even give place to wan-
tonness in extreme cases, and the mother instincts
may become so thoroughly obliterated as to cause an
almost uncontrollable desire to take the lives of her
little ones. The once happy woman becomes despon-
dent, moody and taciturn. She avoids com.pany, has
no taste for amusements, and spends her time in
SUCCESSFUL TREATMENT. 2»I
watching the varying symptoms, and bewailing her
real and imaginary woes. In many cases, actual in-
sanity, usually of a temporary character, is the result
of the profound disturbance which the system under-
goes at this time."
Constipation is not unfrequently attendant upon, and
the cause of, many symptoms of the meno-pause.
General Treatment. — First: Convince yourself
that there is no actual need of any indisposition con-
nected with the " change of life." Forget all the
traditions and teachings upon this subject, and learn
that nature creates no pathological conditions, and that
if you live according to her laws you can by no pos-
sible means experience suffering.
You have no use for these ailments. If you are pos-
sessed of any stubbornness in your nature, bring it
into requisition at this time. Plant your foot down
with emphasis, and say, with one of old, " Get thee
behind me, Satan."
It is thoroughly proven that mind can control even
malignant diseases, and a woman that has lived until
she is forty-five should know enough, and be strong
enough in her mental organization to say to these
symptoms, " I will not be your slave, you cannot
dominate my life and chain my energies." Do not
wait for some doctor to cure you with bread-pills or
placebo powders.
'X\iQ physical should be subjective to the inental,2Ss.A can
be if one learns the law. The world is only begin-
ning to know how much can be accomplished for
physical health by the controlling power of the mind.
The charge must be laid to physicians that women
have made such a mountain of the meno-pause, and
282 NATURAL REMEDIES,
they must undo their work by teaching that this is
only a natural change, and removing it from the cate-
gory of diseases.
Before and during this period observe all condi-
tions of hygiene. Perfect health and vigor is more
frequently attainable than women are apt to believe.
The maintaining of a hygienic life by proper dress,
diet, etc., will go far toward causing the " change of
life" as a deranged condition to be unknown.
Sleep in rooms so thoroughly ventilated that the
air will be as pure and sweet as the out-door atmos-
phere. If women would increase the capacity of
their lungs and breathe air abundantly charged with
oxygen, four-fifths of their ailments would be pre-
vented. But who has the wisdom to convince them
of this.?
The dress and exercise that increase ability to
breathe with the diaphragm and abdominal muscles
do more to prevent and cure diseases of women, if
not all diseases, than all other possible preventives or
medicines. When a mother thinks her rosy nine-
year-old daughter is deformed, and she must begin to
put her in stay3 to change her Jioj-rid figure to one
that is trim and neat, what can we hope for the daugh-
ter when she takes the responsibility of her own gar-
ments.? If I could do the greatest thing to stay de-
generacy and disease of the human race it would be
to convince women that lung power more than any-
thing else contribute: to health, longevity and power
of endurance. To attain this a radical change must
be made in clothing.
A sponge bath (page 112), upon arising in the
morning, taken quickly, three or four times a
BATHS AND DIET. 283
week, is valuable during change of life. Accom-
pany it by friction from the hand, a Turkish towel or
flesh brush. Follow it by a draught of cold or hot
water, the latter if there is dyspepsia.
A hot sitz-bath should be taken in case of inflam-^
mation of the ovaries or uterus, (See page 184.) This
may be taken every day for a week, and then every
other day. In case of hemorrhage this bath is invalu-
able, and will relieve it when all other means have
failed. It can be taken during the hemorrhage orat
frequent intervals between times.
Hot ov tepid vaginalinjections are invaluable for con-
trolling hemorrhage and removing congestion of the
uterus. For this it is best to use a fountain syringe,
hung very high so as to get good force to the water.
This measure alone often removes many of the un-
pleasant symptoms of the meno-pause.
Hoi fomentations may be applied twice a day for
pain in the back. The hot water bottle is the best
for this. Should be very hot and continued thirty or
forty minutes, or even longer. If there is pain at
base of the brain or in the pelvic region this same ap-
plication is invaluable.
The Thermal bath (page 1 18) taken three times a
week will be found invaluable in all the ailments of
the meno-pause.
Sanguinaria, 2d, will give temporary relief from
hot flashes. Dose, six pellets every two hours.
Alcohol and aqua-ammonia, equal parts, heated over
steam, as hot as can be borne, and applied with the
hand, relieves profuse perspiration. Or rub the en-
tire surface with very hot fine salt. Hot baths will
be found useful for this also.
284 SIMPLE HABITS.
The diet during the change of life should be
simple, consisting largely of fruits and grains, mod-
erate in quantity. These can be prepared in many
palatable and dainty dishes. (See Dietetics.) If one
has been accustomed to high living, to rich and
greasy food, composed largely of the carbonaceous
starch, sugar and fat, a change to a simple diet will
work wonders in a short time.
The habit once established for a diet that furnishes
the nutriment demanded for the system, one cannot
be induced to return to that which gorges, stimulates
and fattens, but does not nourish. The real relish
and gustatory pleasure found in a fruit and grain diet
can never be appreciated by those who indulge in
inconsistent mixtures of stimulants and disease-pro-
ducing elements. If there is no appetite, wait for its
bidding; do not coax it by stimulants and appetizers.
Rest of the digestive organs is often the best and
surest cure for many diseases.
Let the woman who is a sufferer from hot flushes,
dizziness, neuralgia, etc., give up strong tea and
coffee, hot bread, pork, and rich pies and cake. Eat
only what the appetite demands; and until the
severest symptoms are relieved, partake of food not
more than twice a day, and possibly only once. In
fasting, if the stomach has a feeling of goneness or
craving, drink a cup of hot water, hot lemonade or
thin gruel, made from wheat, barley or oats. A sense
of faintness and the inability to omit or postpone a
single meal is almost a sure indication of dyspepsia.
In hundreds of cases all the symptoms and diseases
of change of life will yield to treatment for this com"
mon ailment. (Page 42.)
NATURE ALWAYS KIND. 285
Look to it that a constipated habit is entirely over-
come. Study and follow the hints in Chap. V.,
and the cases are rare that torpidity of the bowels
cannot be removed. For any serious illness accom-
panying the change of life, a physician should be
consulted. In all ordinary cases, however, one can
be relieved entirely and that in a short time by relig-
iously following the foregoing advice. Nature is
kind and heals all our maladies if we only give her
the shadow of an opportunity. In the climacteric
period put yourself in harmony with nature's laws
and you will have no occasion for the physician's
potions.
CHAPTER XXIII.
DIETETICS.
In what thou eatest and drinkest, seek from thence
Due nourishment, not gluttonous delight.
So mayest thou live, till, like ripe fruit, thou drop
Into thy mother's lap ; or be with ease
Gathered, not harshly plucked ; for death mature.
— MlLTOW.
DRINKS FOR THE SICK.
LEMONADE.
Juice of half a lemon, one tea-spoon white sugar,
one goblet water. Grate into it a lictle peel if desired.
HOT LEMONADE.
Is made the same way, only using hot water. Is
good for colds and biliousness.
ORANGE WHEY.
The juice of one orange to one pint sweet milk.
Heat slowly until curds form, strain and cool. Good
drink after confinement.
RENNET WHEY.
One quart milk, almost boiling ; two table-spoons
prepared rennet or a piece of rennet which has been
soaked in water. Sugar to taste. Stir the rennet
into the milk ; let it stand until cool, then strain.
(286)
DIETETICS. 287
EGG LEMONADE.
White of one egg, one table-spoon pulverized
sugar. Juice of one lemon, one goblet water. Beat
together. Very grateful in inflammation of lungs,
stomach or bowels.
GUM ARABIC WATER.
One tea-spoon gum arabic, one goblet cold water,
stand until it dissolves. Flavor with juice of lemon,
orange, or any other fruit.
JELLY WATER.
Sour jellies dissolved in water make a pieasant
drink for fever patients.
OATMEAL TEA.
Two table-spoons raw oatmeal to one quart cold
water, stand two hours in a cool place, then drain off
as it is wanted. Nourishing in convalescence, and
an unequalled drink for harvesters or moulders.
TOAST WATER.
Toast slowly a thin piece of bread till it is extreme-
ly brown and hard, but not black. Put it in a bowl
of cold water, and cover tightly. Let it stand an
hour before using.
SAGO MILK.
Three table-spoons sago, soaked in a cup of cold
water one hour ; add three cups boiling milk, sweeten,
and flavor to taste. Simmer slowly half hour, eat
warm. Tapioca milk is made in the same way.
FLAXSEED LEMONADE.
Two table-spoons of whole flaxseed to a pint of
288 DIETETICS.
boiling water; let it stand until cool, then strain and
add the juice of two lemons and two table-spoons
honey. Invaluable for coughs and suppression of
urine.
TAMARIND WATER.
One tumbler of tamarinds, one pint cold water.
Turn water over tamarinds and let it stand an hour;
strain before using. Currant jelly or cranberry jelly
can be used similarly. — Mrs. Owens^ Cook Book,
BEEF TEA.
One pound lean beef cut into small pieces, put into
a bottle without a drop of water, cover tightly and
set in a pot of cold water; heat gradually to a boil,
and continue boiling steadily for three or four hours,
until the meat is like rags, and the juice all out. Salt
to taste.
Beef tea does not afford as much nutrition as peo-
ple have been taught. It is readily taken up by
absorption, and is desirable where a mild stimulant
is required. In fevers and inflammations bran or oat-
meal gruel furnish much more desirable nutrition.
BEEF TEA A STIMULANT, AND NOT A FOOD.
Notwithstanding it has been repeatedly shown
that beef tea is not a food, the laity, and to a consid-
erable extent the profession, are slow to be convinced.
That patients fed on beef tea slowly starve is a fact,
which the analysis only too conclusively supports,
and which is sustained by accurate clinical observa-
tion. In the Lancet for October, 1880, p. 562, Mr. G.
F. Masterman publishes an analysis, which shows
that beef tea has a chemical composition similar to
DIETETICS. 289
urine. Beef tea, most carefully prepared, says Dr.
Neale in the Practitioner (November, 188 1), does not
contain, including alkaline salts, more than from 1.5
to 2.25 per cent, solid matters, and such matter is
mainly composed of urea, kreatin, kreatinin, isolin
and decomposed hematin. As a stimulant, beef tea
may be, and often is, highly serviceable, but as a
means of support during the exhausting drain of a
long illness, it does not compare in nutritive value to
milk. Dr. Lauder Brunton raises the question
whether beef tea, a product of muscular waste, may
not under some circumstances be actually poisonous!
— Medical News,
RICE GRUEL.
Two table-spoons rice, one qaart cold water; steep
slowly one hour; strain through a gravy strainer;
add a little cream and salt.
GRUEL FROM RICE FLOUR.
Wet one table-spoon flour, stir into boiling water,
cook five minutes.
CORN TEA.
Parch common corn until browned through, grind,
and pour on boiling water. Drink with or without
cream. Excellent for nausea, vomiting and diarrhea.
WHEAT, OAT OR BARLEY COFFEE.
Brown the grain thoroughly, and grind. Can be
mixed if desirable. Take three table-spoonfuls. Mix
with the white of an Q^g, pour over it one quart of
boiling water. When it comes to a boil, set it on the
back part of the stove and steep slowly fifteen min-
290 DIETETICS
utes. A nourishing drink and a gfood subf^^tute tor
tea and coffee. When made right is verv ^nlatable.
BRAN GRUEL.
Boil for half an hour one pint of bran of white
wheat, in three pints of water. Strain through a
gravy strainer and add a little salt. This is a good
gruel for fevers and inflammations. Makf'% a good
drink by thinning and adding lemon juice.
CORN MEAL GRUEL.
One table-spoon finely sifted corn meal wet in cold
water. Have one quart boiling water in agruelpan,
dip a spoonful of this thin cold batter into the water,
stir, let it boil up, and then add another spoonful, and
so on until the gruel is of the right consistence. Let
it boil briskly twenty minutes or more. Salt to taste.
GRAHAM GRUEL.
Make like cornmeal gruel. Can be strained or not,
as desired.
OATMEAL GRUEL.
Stir two table-spoons of oatmeal in one quart boil-
ing water. If the meal is coarse, boil one hour and
strain through a gravy strainer. Wheatlet gruel
prepared in same manner.
MILK PORRIDGE.
One and a half table-spoons fllour, wet to a paste,
stirred in a quart of boiling milk; add a pinch of salt;
can substitute rice flour, oatmeal, arrowroot, corn
starch, or the Lockport entire wheat flour.
BAKED MILK.
Put half a gallon of milk in a jar and tie over it
DIETETICS. 291
writing paper. Let it stand in a moderate oven eight
or ten hours. It will be like cream, and is good for
consumptives and invalids generally.— J/r^. Oweni
Cook Book,
HOT MILK.
Take nine parts of milk and one part of water, and
heat to 1 10° F. in a milk boiler. Sipping this slowly,'
the saliva combines with the milk, and this with the
added water will prevent coagulation in the stomach;
hence will be taken up at once by the absorbents.
This is valuable food in morning sickness of preg-
nancy and for nursing women. It is also good in low
fevers and nervous dyspepsia.
The Medical Record^ speaking of hot milk as a bev-
erage, says: " Milk heated to much above 100° F.
loses for the time a degree of its sweetness and its
density. No one who, fatigued by over-exertion of
body or mind, has ever experienced the reviving in-
fluence of a tumbler of this beverage, heated as hot
as it can be sipped, will willingly forego a resort to it
because of its having been rendered somewhat less
acceptable to the palate. The promptness with which
its cordial influence is felt is indeed surprising. Some
portion of it seems to be digested and appropriated
almost immediately; and many who now fancy they
need alcoholic stimulants when exhausted by fatigue,
will find in this simple draught an equivalent that
shall be abundantly satisfying, and far more endur-
ing in its effects."
BUTTERMILK.
Buttermilk, when sweet and fresh from the churn,
is nutritious and wholesome. It contains about 2>2>
292 DIETETICS.
per cent, of water, 4 of nitrogenous food, 3 of sugar,
only a trifle of fat, and considerable mineral matter,
by some estimated at over 5 per cent. There is also
a small amount of lactic acid. As a heat producing
food, it is poor. There are many forms of dyspepsia
in which it " will set on the stomach " when hardly
anything else will. Often in fevers this organ be-
comes rebellious from the effects of larg"'; amounts
of medicine, and it is then a serious question how to
nourish the patient. In such cases buttermilk is some-
times found to be the best food that can be given.
In diabetes it may be employed as a chief article of
diet to great advantage. Corpulent people who will
not adopt the bread and fruit regimen and take much
exercise, may use buttermilk in preference to milk.
It may be put in clean bottles and canned or sealed,
as in preserving fruit, and kept for a long time. Af-
ter a little, one becomes fond of the taste and relishes
it. It ought not be allowed to stand till it is bitter
before using.— i^. Holbrook.
BUTTERMILK POP.
Put one quart of buttermilk in the milk boiler.
When nearly boiling, add two table-spoons flour
which has been rubbed with one tea-spoon of milk.
Stir until boiling. Good in nausea and heartburn of
pregnancy. Also for nervous dyspepsia. I knew
one man that lived on buttermilk pop alone for six
months, and cured himself of dyspepsia.
CHICKEN BROTH.
In one quart of water boil the dark meat of half a
chicken with a table-spoon of rice or barley; skim off
DIETETICS. 293
the fat; use as soon as the rice is well done. When
taken up, add a few narrow strips of bread toasted —
%ot too brown.
MACARONI SOUP.
Into a quart of boiling watei put a handful of
macaroni broken into inch pieces. Let it boil an
hour, then add two cups of strained stewed tomato,
and just before serving pour in half a cup of cream.
A delicious soup.
FARINA SOUP.
Add to any kind of soup stock one half cup of
farina, the same of cream, or an egg well beaten, and
let it cook gently half an hour before serving.
TOMATO SOUP.
Put one pint of canned or fresh tomatoes and one
quart of water, in a granite stew pan. When boil-
ing, thicken with three table-spoons of graham flour
mixed with cold water. Add one quart milk and
Btir until it boils, this prevents curdling. Season to
taste. Can be made in ten minutes.
PUREE OF SPLIT PEAS.
One cup of split peas. Soak over night. Put on
in cold water. Boil two hours slowly. Put through
the colander. Heat in the kettle a cup of sweet
cream, into which has been stirred two large spoon-
fuls graham flour, or that of entire wheat, and a pinch
of salt. When it thickens, return the peas to the
kettle and stir. Then set. back.
LEMON JELLY.
Moisten two table-spoons corn starch, stir into one
pint boiling water; add the juice of two lemons and
^94 DIETETICS.
one-third cup of sugar. Grate in a little of the rind.
Put in moulds to cool.
LEMON GELATINE.
Soak one ounce of gelatine in a quart of water.
When dissolved, pour it in a saucepan and let it
come to a boil. Add the juice of three lemons, a
little grated rind, and one cup of sugar. Strain
through a thin cloth, put into moulds, and set on ice
to cool.
SAGO JELLY.
Soak five table-spoons sago in half a pint cold
water thirty minutes, then add one cup sugar and
two table-spoons lemon juice. Pour over three cups
boiling water; boil the whole in a farina b/jiler one
hour; pour into moulds; when cold tun/ out and
serve with fruit juice.
SAGO CURRANT JELLY.
Soak in cold water five table-spoons saao one hour:
strain off the water, add half pint currant juice
(strained); boil slowly fifteen minutes, stirring occa-
sionally, then add half a cup sugar. Pour into
moulds; serve the following day without sauce.
Cranberries or other acid fruits can be used. Makes
a very tempting dish for an invalid.
NUTRINA OR BRAN JELLY.
1st. Go to the mill f02irse//, and watch the miller
while he gives you clean wheat bran.
2d. Have a kettle of boiling soft water on the
stove. Sift with one hand, stirring briskly all the
while with a paddle or wooden spoon, held in the
other, until the mass is about the consistency of a
DIETETICS. 295
thick gruel. Let this boil slowly two hours. Place
a sieve over the top of a pan and pour this gruel in
it to drain. When well drained place the pan on the
stove and allow it to come to a boil. Mix with cold
water a spoonful or so of sifted graham flour, enough
to bring the boiling gruel to about the consistency
of a smooth gravy, or thick gruel.
Dip into moulds — coffee cups are nice for this-—
and allow to become cold, when, if right, it will be a
trembling, delicate jelly. Perhaps it will be neces-
sary to experiment a little, as the first trial may not
be entirely successful, but depend upon it, the out-
come is well worth painstaking.
Nutrina accompanied with various sa ces makes a
welcome dessert. People who use milk or cream
would like nutrina with a cream sauce. Nutrina can
not be too highly recommended, for it suits so wide
a range of conditions. — Dr. M. Augusta Fairchild.
Nutrina contains the phosphates of the grain,
hence it is a valuable nerve nutritive. Is especially
excellent for nursing mothers and children when first
weaned.
CEREALS.
Every table should be abundantly supplied with
well-cooked cereals. Cook in a farina or milk boiler.
No housekeeper should be without this important
utensil. Do not soak cereals in cold water over night.
AH of them, even rice, are far better to be put to
cook in boiling water. This bursts the starch cells
at once, and prevents the raw taste and stringy, dark
look these preparations frequently have. Should not
be stirred while cooking, as it breaks the grains and
makes them pasty.
296 DIETETICS.
CRACKED OR ROLLED WHEAT.
In two quarts boiling water stir one pint cracked
wheat. Half tea-spoon salt. Use a farina boiler or
double kettle, and cook three hours without stirring.
When done, mould in dishes. Eat hot or cold with
fruit sauce or cream and sugar. Excellent in consti'
pation or biliousness. The rolled wheat is preferable.
Not being able to procure it ready prepared, one can
crack wheat in an ordinary coffee mill.
OATMEAL MUSH.
Coarse oatmeal should be cooked like rolled wheat.
If desired warm for breakfast, can be left in a granitt
or porcelain farina boiler over night, and heated in
a few minutes. Do not soak oatmeal over night, nor
try to cook it sufficiently in the morning. It must
never be stirred while cooking. Fine oatmeal can be
made in a mush, like Indian meal, and be ready for
the table in twenty minutes.
INDIAN MEAL MUSH.
Take fine meal of northern corn, a little salt; stir
slowly in boiling water until as thick as can be stirred
easily. Stand it on back of the stove and cook slowly
one hour. Is better cooked in a milk boiler.
GRAHAM MUSH.
Stir graham flour in boiling water slowly, until it
makes a thick batter. Set on the back part of the
stove ten minutes, then beat two minutes and turn
into the dish. To be eaten with fruit juice or cream
and sugar.
FARINA MUSH.
Stir a half cup of farina slowly into a quart of
DIETETICS. 297
boiling water; cook fifteen minutes in a milk boiler
without stirring; add one-half cup of cream justbe»
fore removing from the fire. Served with stewed
fruit or fruit sauce.
HOMINY.
Mix one cup of hominy with three and a half cups
boiling water, a little salt. Cook in farina boiler four
hours. Delicious eaten with milk with or without
sugar. — Hygienic Cookery.
WHEATLET MUSH.
Use water, or equal parts of milk and water. Salt
to taste. Have boiling, foaming, scalding hot, then
sprinkle into it from the hand sufficient wheatlet to
make a thin pudding.
Keep it boiling hard for five minutes. Then set it
back to cook slowly ten minutes longer.
WHEATLET BLANC MANGE.
Pour wheatlet mush into forms and serve cold.
WHEATLET PUDDING.
Break up cooked wheatlet with a fork, add milk
enough to make a thin pudding; two eggs, currants
and raisins to suit. Brown in a moderate oven.
WHEATLET AND APPLE PUDDING.
Make as cracked wheat pudding, (page 311).
GRANULA.
Take equal parts of graham flour, fine oatmeal and
cornmeal, mix to a batter thick enough to cling to
the spoon. Bake in thin cakes in a quick oven.
298 DIETETICS.
When baked, break into pieces and dry out thor-
oughly in a slow oven until crisp. Then roll with
the rolling pin into fine crumbs. Delicious eaten in
milk. Many families prepare it from their cold gems,
bread and corn bread, thus finding an economical use
for "dry bread."
RICE AND APPLE PUDDING.
One quart boiled rice, three pints tart chopped ap-
ples, half cup sugar, put in layers in earthen baking
dish, add half cup water, and bake two hours slowly.
Raisins, plums or prunelles can be used to flavor if
desired. Serve warm or cold, with cream.
RICE AND RAISINS.
Three cups boiling water, one cup sweet milk, one
cup rice, half cup raisins. Mix well together. Cook
in steamer or farina boiler. Mould and eat warm or
cold, with cream or fruit sauce.
RICE SNOW.
One quart sweet milk, five tablespoonfuls rice flour
or corn starch, one-half cup sugar, whites of four
eggs. Boil the milk, stir in the rice flour moistened,
and add the sugar. When cold whip a little at a time
into the eggs, after they are well beaten. Mould and
serve with cream or fruit sauce.
RICE SNOW BALLS.
Two quarts boiling water, one pint boiling milk,
two cups rice; cook two hours in farina boiler with-
out stirring. Mould in small cups, and serve with
boiled custard or fruit sauce.
RICE GRIDDLE CAKES.
Two cups boiled rice, one cup sweet milk, two
eggs, one cup sifted flour. Bake slowly.
RICE OMELET.
Two cups boiled rice, one cup sweet milk, two
eggs. Stir together with egg beater, and put into a
hot buttered skillet. Cook slowly ten minutes, stir-
ring frequently.
RICE AND BERRY PUDDING.
Two cups sweet milk, two cups cold rice, samp oi
barley; two cups blueberries, currants, strawberries,
seeded cherries or chopped apples; one-third cup
sugar, two eggs — yokes and whites separate. Time,
one hour; slow oven. Soften the cold rice (or other
grain) with the milk, working out all the lumps; then
stir in the yolks and sugar beaten together, and also
the well whipped whites. Add the fruit, mixing it in
lightly; pour the batter into a dish, set in a dripping
pan of boiling water, and bake slowly one hour.
Serve cold or lukewarm, with or without a dressing
of cream. — Health in the Household.
BROWNED RICE.
Parch or brown rice slowly; steep in milk for two
hours. The rice or the milk only is excellent in
summer complaint.
RICE CREAM.
Thicken a pint of scalding milk with rice flour to
the consistency of cream; sweeten and flavor to taste.
Beat the whites of two eggs to a stiff froth, put a
half ounce of gelatine to half pint of cold water; wb^r
2)00 DIETETICS.
well soaked, place over the fire until the gelatine is
dissolved; when cool, beat to a froth with an egg-
beater; mix with the egg and milk.
BOILED RICE.
Put two cups of rice to three pints of boiling water,
half teaspoon salt. Cook in a farina boiler four hours.
RICE. -JAPANESE METHOD.
Only enough water is poured on the rice to pre-
vent burning. Cover tightly and set over a moderate
fire until nearly done. Remove cover to allow
moisture to escape. The rice turns out a mass of
snow-white separate kernels, each burst open like a
mealy potato.- -Ify^-iem'c Cookery.
It is far less trouble to cover the dish tightly and
cook it in a steamer.
BREAD.
Bread is the representative of human food, because
wheat, of which it is made, embraces all the elements
of nutrition necessary to build up and sustain every
part of the system, keeping it -in good working con-
dition and preserving it unimpaired to ripe old age.
It is the only single article of food upon which man
can live after he is weaned, without danger of impov-
erishing his system.
Bread to serve the best purposes of nutrition should
contain all the elements of the grain. White bread
that holds a popular place as an article of diet, is
greatly deficient in the nitrates or muscle-feeding ele-
ments. The gluten of the grain, in which these are
found, is removed in the bran. Besides, fermentation
of flour is at the expense of the gluten. Conse-
DIETETICS. 301
quently to obtain bread that contains all the elements
of nutrition in the right proportion, it must be made
from the popular graham or Lockport entire wheat
flour, and not raised with yeast or chemicals. If
raised with yeast, the less number of times it is mixed
the better. The most popular unleavened breads are
gems, muffins and rolls.
GRAHAM GEMS.
Take three cups of entire wheat flour or graham
made from white wheat, two cups of cold water, half
cup of milk. A little more wetting may be needed
for graham. Omit salt. Heat gem pans very hot on
the top of the stove, fill them even full with the
batter, place on the grate of a very hot oven. Let
them remain ten minutes, then bake thirty minutes
on the bottom of the oven. The "acorn" gem pans
are essential. These are small, round, deep iron pans.
Notice, three things are necessary for good gems:
The best white wheat flour, very hot pans and oven,
and the "acorn" gem pans. No beating is required.
These conditions observed, the gems will be as light
as sponge cake. They can be eaten warm or cold,
but are best heated over in a quick oven. They make
excellent toast and pudding. I was many years in
learning to make good gems without yeast or soda.
This receipt never fails, even with a "green" cook.
GRAHAM MUFFINS.
Take one pint of new milk, one pint graham or
entire wheat flour. Stir together and add one beaten
^SS- C^^ t)e baked in any kind of gem pans or mufiin
rings. Salt must not be used with any bread that is
made light with Q%'g,
302 DIETETICS.
UNLEAVENED BREAD.
Mix entire wheat flour with ice cold water, to a
stiff dough; knead for four or five minutes; cut in
small pieces and roll into cakes size of clothes-pins.
Bake on wire pan or toaster in hot oven, leaving
room to rise. Very light and sweet. An addition
of raisins and hickory nut meats is much enjoyed. —
Mrs. Purdy.
OATMEAL AND GRAHAM GEMS.
Mix equal parts of graham and fine Irish oatmeal
into a thick batter, with equal parts of milk and.
water, fill hot gem pans, and bake with a brisk heat.
Very sweet and tender. — Dr. Holbrook.
WHITE FLOUR GEMS.
Stir briskly into new milk, or milk and water, suffi-
cient flour to make a batter not too stiff to drop from
a spoon — much depends on the consistency; experi-
ment only will decide. Add the whites of two eggs
whipped to a stiff froth and beat all together thor-
oughly. A little cream put in at the last makes the
gems more tender. Bake in hot gem pans in a quick
oven.
BROWN GEMS.
Mix with water equal quantities of rye and Indian
meal, beat it to a cream, perhaps ten or fifteen
minutes, bake in thin cakes in flat gem pans
BEST GRAHAM BISCUITS.
Make as thick a graham mush by stirring the flour
into boiling water, as is possible, then take it from
the stove to the moulding board, knead into it more
DIETETICS. 303
graham flour, roll about an inch thick, cut into bis-
cuits, and bake in a hot oven.
LIGHT GRAHAM BISCUITS.
Make the dough of graham yeast bread a trifle
stiffer, roll and cut into biscuits. When light, bake
thirty minutes.
DELICIOUS CORN BREAD.
One quart corn meal, partly scalded with one pint
boiling water. Add to this one pint sweet milk, stir
to a smooth batter, dip a large cooking spoonful at a
time on your hot griddle in separate cakes, let it
stand to get the lower crust well started, then place
the griddle in the hot oven, on the top grate, and
allow the baking to be finished there. The cake
should be a nice brown. About half an hour's time
will be required for bkaing. — Dr. M. A. Fairchild.
OATMEAL CAKE.
Take one pint of fine oatmeal, and warm water
enough to stir up a batter, like griddle cakes. Pour
it into a shallow baking pan or griddle, and bake
twenty minutes in a hot oven. Or bake in small cakes
on the griddle, first putting in a handful of wheat
flour and a little more water.
BOSTON BROWN BREAD.
Three cups graham flour, one cup Indian meal, one
cup molasses, two cups sweet milk, one cup sour
milk, one teaspoon soda. Steam three hours and
bake two hours.
GRAHAM BREADk
Soak half a cake of compressed yeast, stir it into
304 DIETETICS.
one quart warm water and two quarts graham flour.
Put into a deep sheet iron bread pan which has been
well greased. When light bake one hour or more.
If compressed yeast cannot be obtained, use home-
made or baker's yeast. The dough should be as stiff
as can be stirred with a spoon. Make bread from
fine flour of the entire wheat the same way, only a
trifle stiffen
YEAST BREAD FROM WHITE FLOUR.
Make a sponge by boiling one pound of potatoes
in two quarts of water; stir up a pint of sifted flour
as for starch, and pour the boiling water over it,
adding the potatoes when well mashed; when cool,
add a cup of yeast, or two ounces dried yeast soaked,
and a table-spoon of salt. Make this the day pre-
vious to baking; it will save labor to do it at the same
time you boil potatoes for dinner.
To make the bread, take three quarts sifted flour
warmed, and wet with the sponge, adding no more
liquid or salt; knead at least half an hour, keeping
the dough soft and warm; put it in the baking pans,
which are well greased, and when it is light it is
ready for the oven. Bake forty minutes. The dough
must be soft and thoroughly kneaded.
This method preserves the gluten.
OATMEAL SNAPS.
Mix one cup sweet cream and three table-spoonfuls
sugar; add fine oatmeal till stiff; knead slightly; roll
to the thickness of an eighth of an inch; cut in
shapes; bake crisp in moderate oven. — Hygienic
Cookery,
DIETETICS. 305
GRAHAM FRUIT CRACKERS.
Two-thirds cup sweet cream; one cup dried cur-
rants picked and washed, one-fourth tea-spoonful
soda, one-half tea-spoonful cream tartar. Use equal
parts graham and white flour to make a very stiff
dough. Roll out less than an eighth of an inch in
thickness. Cover thickly with the fruit. Lay on
another sheet of the dough, pass the rolling pin over
it. Cut in shapes; prick deeply; bake in a moderate
oven thoroughly. — Hygienic Cookery.
GRAHAM WAFERS.
Take graham flour. Mix with pure cold water.
No salt. Knead thoroughly fifteen minutes; roll very
thin, about half as thick as soda crackers; cut in two
inch squares and bake quickly. These will keep for
months in a dry place. It makes them crisp to place
them in the oven a few minutes before bringing them
to the table. Better if made by a baker, using the
cracker machine. These are the best dyspeptic bread
made, and are soon relished by all who eat them.
GRAHAM CRACKERS.
Take one part cream to four parts milk^ mix with
flour, as soft as can be handled; knead twenty min-
utes; roll very thin; cut square or round, and bake
quickly twenty minutes. Handle carefully while hot;
pack away when cool in a stone jar.
RICE MUFFINS.
One cup of boiled rice, two eggs, two cups of
sweet milk, two cups of flour. Beat well. Bake in
gem pans or muffin rings.
306 DIETETICS.
BUCKWHEAT CAKES.
One quart of warm water, one quart of buckwheat
flour, a cup of bread sponge, one tea-spoon salt.
Make over night, or will rise in three or four hours
in the daytime. Some batter being left will raise
cakes the following day.
Buckwheat contains a large proportion of gluten,
and is very desirable for batter cakes. It has been
brought into disrepute for two reasons: First, suffi-
cient pains has not been taken to cleanse out the
smut of the grain, which is poisonous, producing
eruptions, etc. Second, too much butter and syrup
are consumed with the cakes, supplying to the sys-
tem a superabundance of carbon. Substitute honey
or fruit sauce to make the cakes relish.
WHEATLET CAKES.
Make like buckwheat cakes. These are delicious,
and are destined to become very popular.
GRIDDLE CAKES FROM "SHORTS."
Shorts, or middlings, are obtained in grinding
wheat, between the fine flour and bran. These are
rich in gluten, and, prepared in the same way, make
cakes equal to buckwheat. Not being able to pro-
cure "shorts," use graham, wheatlet, or entire wheat
flour.
RICE GRIDDLE CAKES.
One cup boiled rice, one egg, one cup sweet milk,
one cup water, two cups of white flour, entire wheat
flour or ** shorts."
CORN GRIDDLE CAKES.
Pour boiling water on a pint of corn meal to make
DIETETICS. 307
a stiff batter; let it stand over night. In the morn-
ing add one cup of graham flour and one cup of
sweet milk. If not light, add a tea-spoon of baking
powder; except in cold weather, the corn will fer-
ment sufficiently to make it light. Can be baked in
gem pans if preferred.
BREAKFAST PATTIES.
Make a thick gruel of equal parts of graham ana
corn meal. Let it stand over night. Add sifted
graham flour, or flour of the entire wheat, until the
batter is thicker than for batter cakes. Bake as grid-
dle cakes, giving them plenty of time. If just right,
most delicious breakfast cakes.
MILK TOAST.
Heat six slices of graham or entire wheat bread in
the oven; toast an even brown over coals. Boil one
pint of milk and half a cup of cream. Thicken with
one tea-spoon corn-starch ; half a tea-spoon salt. Pour
over the toast and serve hot.
GEM TOAST.
Split graham gems, toast the same as the bread,
and cover with the same dressing. This is the best
toast made. Is not harmed by standing.
OYSTER TOAST.
Pour stewed oysters over graham gems or bread
toasted. An excellent breakfast dish.
CODFISH TOAST.
Toast graham bread or gems; lay upon a platter
and cover with codfish prepared in milk.
20 -'
306 DIETETICS.
TOMATO TOAST.
Stew one quart tomatoes; seasor. with one table-
spoon su?ar and half a teaspoon salt; pour over
graham bread or gems to"*sted.
EGGS ON TOAST.
Soften brown bread toast with ho. water, put on a
platter and cover with poached or scrambled eggs.
ASPARAGUS ON TOASl.
Cut the green of one pound of asparagus in one
pint hot water. Stew thirty minujes; add half a cup
of cream, a little salt, turn over graham toast.
RHUBARB TOAST.
Take one pint water, half a cup of sugar; when
boiling, put in two pounds rhubarb cut in small
pieces. Stew until done; when cold, pour over a
platter of hot toasted graham bread, having a little
butter upon it. This is an excellent breakfast dish,
and as the toast absorbs the peculiar rhubarb flavor,
can be eaten by those who usually dislike it.
Gooseberries, tart apples, peaches and other acid
fruits can be prepared in the same way.
Note. — Never use white bread for toast when
bread of the unbolted or entire wheat flour can be
had. The latter never becomes doughy, and is much
better flavored, besides being more nutritious.
EGGS AS FOOD.
Eggs, at average prices, are among the cheapest
and most nutritious articles of diet. Like milk, an
egg is a complete food in itself, as is manifested from
the fact that from it a chick draws all the nourish-
DIETETICS. 309
ment needed in its development. This is one of the
mysteries of nature that the yolk and white of an egg
can contain elements capable of producing so many
and such varied parts as constitute a living fowl. An
egg is easily digested if not damaged in cooking. In-
deed, there is no more concentrated and nourishing
food than eggs. The albumen, oil and saline matter
are, as in milk, in the right proportion for sustaining
animal life. Two or three boiled eggs, with the addi-
tion of a slice or two of toast, will make a breakfast
sufficient for x man and good enough for a king.
BOILED EGGS.
An egg should never be boiled. Immersed in boil-
ing water for a few moments the white part coagu-
lates and becomes hard, and more or less indigestible.
If cooked at a temperature of 165° for fifteen or
twenty minutes the white part coagulates into a ten-
der, delicate, jelly-like substance, which is not only
very digestible but delicious, while at the same time
the yolk becomes sufficiently hard. If placed in
boHing water and set back for ten minutes it will
cook to perfection. A little experience will enable
%x\y one to do it successfully.
POACHED EGGS.
In a skillet of salted boiling water, place muffin
rings. Drop the egg in them and let them stand ten
minutes without boiling. Remove the rings, and the
eggs will be nicely moulded and evenly cooked.
EGGS POACHED IN MILK.
Take one cup of milk, half a cup of water, when
boiling break in six eggs. Cook slawlyand serve on
3IO DIETETICS.
toast. A lady told me she cured herself of nervous
headaches by eating an egg every morning cooked
in this way. The milk prevents the poisonous effect
of the sulphur in the egg, and the nerves get decided
nutriment.
SCRAMBLED EGGS.
Beat six eggs and one cup of milk together. Cook
in a buttered skillet, stirring occasionally. Take up
before it is quite thickened.
STEAMED EGGS.
Break into egg cups and steam ten mi nutes.
BAKED EGGS.
Put unbroken eggs in one dripping pan and covei
with another the same size; bake in a quick oven
twenty minutes.
EGG OMELET.
Beat the whites of six eggs separately. Beat the
yolks with three table-spoons of milk and one table^
spoon of flour; stir the whites in lightly. Cook in ?
hot buttered skillet. When the edge is cooked, turn
over carefully. In two minutes more, double to-
gether on a hot platter. Use no salt.
ESCALLOPED EGGS.
Cut light bread in pieces about three inchesi
square and one and a half inches thick; dip in milk,
then scoop out about two-thirds of the center. Fill
with egg prepared as for omelet, and bake in a quick
oven.
RAW OYSTERS.
It is an old theory that a raw oyster digests itself.
This is owing to the diastase or glycogen in the liver.
DIETETICS. 311
A fat ojrster is half liver. Cooking destroys this
diastase. So also much vinegar and condiments make
it slow to assimilate. Alcohol also destroys the
diastase. Valuable in nervous dyspepsia, and conse-
quently useful in the early months of pregnancy.
STEWED OYSTERS.
Take one pint of milk, one cup of water, a tea-spoon
of salt; when boiling, put in one pint of bulk oysters.
Stir occasionally and remove from the stove before it
boils. An oyster should not be shriveled in cooking.
BROILED OYSTERS.
Put large oysters on a wire toaster. Hold over
hot coals until heated through. Serve on toast moist-
ened with cream. Very grateful in convalescence.
GRAHAM GEM PUDDING.
Take six cold gems, baked the day before, break
into small pieces and pour over them a pint of hot
water and half cup of sugar; stir in six large tart ap-
ples, cut in thin slices. Bake two hours. Other fruits
are sometimes used.
CRACKED WHEAT PUDDING.
In a deep two-quart pudding dish put layers of cold,
cooked cracked wheat, and tart apples sliced thin,
with four table-spoons sugar. Raisins can be added
if preferred. Fill the dish, having the wheat last, add
cup of cold water. Bake Vjco hours.
FARINA BLANC-MANGE.
Stir into a quart of boiling milk farina enough to
make a thin pudding, then set away to cool. Before
312 DIETETICS
the farina is quite cold, stir in the yolk of one egg
and a little sugar, then add the whites of two eggs
whipped to a stiff froth and beat thoroughly. It is
more creamy if not made too thick with farina. Serve
cold with fruit or jelly.
RICE PUDDING.
One quart new milk, two table-spoons rice, two
table spoons sugar, pinch of salt, one tea-spoon lemon
extract, or if preferable, half cup of raisins. Bake
three hours in a moderate oven. ,
For summer it is delicious cold. Better made in
a large quantity.
APPLE TAPIOCA PUDDING.
Soak a tea-cup of tapioca in a quart of warm water
three hours. Cut in thin slices six tart apples, stir
them lightly with the tapioca, add half cup sugar.
Bake three hours. To be eaten with whipped cream.
Good either warm or cold.
INDIAN FRUIT PUDDING.
One pint cornmeal mush made with water. Add
one pint stewed dried apples, peaches or prunes, one
half pint water, one cup sugar. Stir ingredients well
together. Bake five hours.
ORANGE PUDDING.
Pare and slice five large oranges, removing seeds.
Lay in a deep dish and sprinkle with half cup sugar;
let them stand two hours. Make a custard of one
pint milk, yolks of three eggs, two table-spoons corn-
starch. When cool, pour over oranges. Beat the
whites with two table-spoons of powdered sugar and
place on the top; brown quickly in the oven.
DIETETICS. 313
CORN MUSH PUDDING.
One quart milk, one pint corn mush (page 296),
two-thirds cup molasses, one tea-spoon cinnamon.
Bake four hours.
BAKED INDIAN PUDDING.
Boil one quar:: of milk, stir in seven table-spoons
meaL T'^ace from the stove, add one quart cold milk,
one cup molasses, one tea-spoon ground mace. Bake
in an earthen pudding dish five hours. Double the
recipe makes a better pudding, and it is good cold.
mother's apple pudding.
One pint rolled bread crux.bs; two pints of tart ap-
ples, chopped; one cup seedless raisins, half a cup
sugar. Place in layers in an earthen pudding dish;
add one cup water; bake slowly two hours. Re-
quires no sauce. Peaches, cherries, plums, etc., can
be used in place of apples, and also stewed dried
fruits.
HUCKLEBERRY BREAD PUDDING.
Heat one c; jart milk and pour it over one pint dry
graham bread crumbs; cool add two beaten yolks,
three table-spoons sugar, two well-whipped whites.
Stir in one pint huckleberries, dredged with flour,
bake in a pudding dish, set in a pan of boiling water
forty or fifty minutes. — Hygienic Cookery.
PLUM PUDDING.
One cup seedless raisins, one cup currants, one
quart chopped apples, one cup sugar, one cup eraham
flour mixed in a pint of water. Mix all together, and
bake five or six hours.
314 DIETETICS.
STRAWBERRY DESSERT.
Place alternate layers of hot cooked cracked wheat
and strawberries in a deep dish; when cold, turnout
on platter; cut in slices and serve with cream and
sugar, or strawberry juice. Wet the moulds with
cold water before using. This, moulded in small
cups, makes a dainty dish for the sick. Wheatlet
can be used in the same way.
PIES.
A very palatable pie crust can be made of sweet
cream and graham or entire wheat flour. Should be
worked soft, made thin, and baked in a hot oven.
Eaten the day it is baked. In a dietetic point of view
there is little objection to this crust. Any acid fruit
can be used for the filling. A crust of fine flour and
lard does not make suitable nutriment for sick or well.
PIE FOR DYSPEPTICS.
Four table-spoons of oatmeal, one pint of water; let
stand for a few hours, or till the meal is swelled.
Then add two large apples, pared and sliced, a little
salt, one cup of sugar, one table-spoon flour. Mix all
well together and bake in a buttered dish; makes a
most delicious pie, which can be eaten with safety
by the sick or well. — Dr, Holbrook.
STRAWBERRY PIE.
Place the under crust upon a deep plate, and the
upper one— cut just the right size — on a flat tin or
sheet iron; prick to prevent blistering, and bake. Fill
the deep crust while hot with strav/berries, and cover
with the flat crust. If the fruit is rather hard, re^
DIETETICS. 315
place in the oven till heated; if quite ripe, the crust
will steam sufficiently.
Raspberry and blackberry pie can be made in the
same way. The flavor of these delicious berries,
when quite ripe, is greatly impaired by cooking; they
are also changed to a mass of little else than seeds
and juice. — Mrs. Cox's Hygiene Cook Book.
APPLE PIE CAKE.
Of flour of the entire wheat and cold water, make
a batter soft enough to level itself. If shortening is
desired, use sweet cream. Fill a deep pie-platter a
third full of the batter, sprinkle over a little sugar.
Wash, quarter and core tart apples and place as many
in the batter (skin side up) as it will hold. Press
down and level with a spoon. Over the top sprinkle
sugar and bake till brown. — Dr. Holbrook.
CAKE.
Cake is hardly considered a dietic food. A few-
recipes, however, are given that experience has
proved good, and may be eaten by convalescents or
invalids at the seaside or in the mountains.
STRAWBERRY SHORT-CAKE.
Bake a short-cake in three thin layers. Then put
strawberries between, having them mashed and
sweetened, and on the top layer and all about the
side of a dish, put your finest large berries. This
needs no sauce.
We also make a simple pudding, which is well
cooked cracked wheat, with the whole berries
stirred in when done, and put in moulds. To be
3r6 DIETETICS.
eaten cold. Rice and corn mushes may be treated
in the same way.
But best of all, is strawberries and plain unleav-
ened bread. This exceeds in wholesomeness, and
really in gustatory delight, all the ways that man has
invented to punish strawberries. — Dr. Fairchild.
The short-cake should be make of cream and
graham or entire wheat flour.
GRAHAM CAKE.
One cup sugar, two eggs, half a cup sweet cream,
one cup of flour, one tea-spoon of baking powder.
Bake in a deep tin. Adding currants and chopped
raisins and baking in small cake tins makes a nice
children's cake.
EUREKA SPONGE CAKE.
Four eggs beaten with one and a half cups of
sugar, two cups of sifted flour, baking powder and
lemon extract, each one tea-spoon. Beat thoroughly
together, and add three-fourths cup of boiling water.
Is very thin, but makes a delicious and wholesome
cake. It is good made from white or graham flour.
Makes a nice layer cake by baking it in jelly tins.
CORALINE CAKE.
Half a cup of sweet milk, half a cup of rich cream,
one cup of sugar, one ^^^, two cups graham or
entire wheat flour, one tea-spoon baking powder.
Bake in two pie tins. When done split open with a
sharp knife, and fill in with raspberry or strawberry
juice that has been thickened with corn starch or
gelatine. By using boiled custard for filling, it will
make what cooks call a French pie.
DIETETICS. 317
GRAHAM FRUIT ROLL.
To two and a half cups sifted graham flour add
three cups sifted white flour. Mix with two cups
sweet cream, one teaspoon soda and two of cream
tartar. Roll the dough into two oblong sheets about
a quarter of an inch thick. Put layers of fruit
between and on them, using one cup each of chopped
raisins and dried currants. Roll closely, pinching
the ends firmly together to secure the fruit. Bake
in a moderate oven one hour. — Hygienic Cookery.
HUCKLEBERRY CAKE.
Beat together one-half cup butter and two of
sugar. Then add one cup of sweet milk, three of flour
and four e^s. One tea-spoon of soda dissolved in
a little hot water. Add last one quart ripe berries.
FRUIT SAUCE.
Boil the juice of any acid fruit, adding an equal
part of water. To one pint put one table-spoon of
sugar and one tea-spoon corn starch. This makes a
clear juice about the consistence of syrup, and is very
desirable to eat with wheat, mush, gems, griddle
cakes and plain puddings. Jellies and jams can be
made into fruit sauce by adding four parts of water,
and thickening. Will not require sugar. These are
valuable sauces for invalids and children. Once
learning how delicious they are, persons in health
will demand them. In many of the small fruits the
seeds are very objectionable. This method of using
the fruits obviates that.
PEACHES A LA STRAWBERRY.
Ripe peaches cut in small pieces, with soft, mild
3l8 DIETETICS.
eating apples in the proportion of three peaches to
one apple, mixed with sugar, and left to stand two
or three hours, makes excellent mock strawberries.
Kansas Home Cook Book.
BAKED APPLES.
Pare tart apples; core with a corer or small knife
Place them in pans and fill cavities with sugar.
Bake in a slow oven until tender. If sweet apples
are used, it is better not to pare; sugar not needed.
APPLE SNOW.
Take apples, not very sweet ones, and bake till soft
and brown. Then remove the skins and cores; when
cool, beat them smooth and fine; add half cup of
granulated sugar and the white of one ^Z^. Beat
till the mixture will hold on your spoon. Serve
with soft custard. — V. Mills.
BAKED PEARS.
Take a stone jar, and fill it with alternate layers of
pears (without paring) and a little sugar, until the
jar is full, then pour in as much water as the jar will
hold. Bake in a moderate oven three hours. — Kansas
Home Cook Book.
BAKED PIE-PLANT.
Cut two pcninds of pie-plant into a pudding dish,
sprinkle over it half a cup of sugar and half a cup of
rolled bread crumbs or granula. Add water until
the pie-plant is two-thirds covered. Bake in a quick
oven, thirty or forty minutes. This method of pre-
paring pie-plant removes the medicinal taste, and
makes an acceptable spring dish.
DIETETICS. 319
FRUIT BLANC-MANGE.
One quart of juice of strawberries, cherries, grapes
or other juicy fruit; one cup water. When boiling, add
two table-spoonfuls sugar, and four table-spoonfuls
corn-starch wet in cold water; let boil five or six
minutes, then mould in small cups. Serve without
sauce, or with cream or boiled custard. Lemon juice
can be used the same, only requiring more water.
This is a very valuable dish for convalescents and
pregnant women,where the stomach rejects solid food.
FRUIT ICE.
Apples, pears, quinces, or any fruit grated fine,
sweetened to taste, and frozen is delicious. May be
taken where there is fever or inflammation.
GRAVY FOR CHILDREN.
Stir a heaping table-spoon of whole wheat flour
smoothly in half cup cold milk. When a pint of milk
boils, stir the above in slowly; add a half tea-spoon
salt. To prevent burning, melt a little butter in the
spider before pouring in the milk. It is more nutri-
tious and wholesome than meat gravy.
MACARONI, STEWED.
Cover half pound of macaroni with plenty of boil-
ing water and stew slowly two hours, without stir-
ring. Before taking up, season with salt and cream.
MACARONI, BAKED.
Break in small pieces half a pound of macaroni;
mix with a half cup shavings of cheese and a half
tea-spoon salt. Put into a baking dish, cover with
boiling milk or water, and bake two hours in a mod-
320 DliSTETICS.
erate oven. If cheese is not relished, use bread-
crumbs and cream instead.
CRACKER OMELET.
Break one quart of oyster crackers in small pieces;
pour over them one pint of hot milk, with half tea-
spoon salt. Stir in three eggs well beaten and put
into a hot buttered skillet. Cook slowly ten minutes,
stirring frequently.
TOMATOES WITH CORN.
Cook the tomatoes half an hour; then add one-third
as much green corn, cut from the ear. Stew slowly
for half an hour, stirring occasionally. — Hygienic
Cookery.
SCALLOPED TOMATOES.
Place in a pudding dish alternate layers of toma-
toes and bread crumbs, or thin slices of toast, letting
the topmost layer be tomatoes. Add a little salt.
Bake slowly, covered an hour or more; uncovc/ and
brown ten minutes.
A FAMILIAR LETTER
TO THE READER FROM THE AUTHOR.
In presenting a revised edition of Tokology, the
author takes the liberty of responding to inquiries
upon different subjects of vital importance,
"Can a law be given for regulating the sex of off-
spring?" This is a subject which has elicited much
study and discussion among physiologists. Various
theories have received the support of investigators.
Dr. Sixt, a German physician, asserts that the right
testicle and the right ovary secrete the male princi-
ple, and the left the female, and that in coition the
sperm is injected from one testicle only He claims
that experiments upon animals prove his theory; that
whenever the left testicle is removed, the animal
begets males only, and when the right one is want-
ing, females.
Mrs. Duffey, in mentioning this theory, very
shrewdly adds: "He does not, however, tell us what
would be the result if tne germ and the sperm should
proceed, the one from the right ovary and the other
from the left testicle."
The fact also remains that a man who has been
deprived of one testicle has become the father of
children of both sexes. Also, that a woman having
lost one ovary has conceived and brought forth both
sons and daughters.
(321)
322 AUTHOR*S BELIEF.
Prof. Thury, of Geneva, gives the following the-
ory: That if impregnation takes place immediately
or very soon after menstruation, the child will be a
female; but if not till some days later, the child will
be a male.
This theory is pretty generally depended upon by
stock breeders, who claim that early union after heat
produces y£';««/(fj, while the /a^^ produces males. Yet
Darwin affirms that the results of experiments have
gone far to disprove Thury's theory.
Girou, a French scientist, as well as some French
and German physiologists, claims that experiments
show that if the male is older and stronger than the
female, the offspring will be more largely males, and
vice versa.
Samuel Hougk Terry gives as a tested and proved
theory that if the wife is in a higher state of sexual
vigor and excitement at the time of conception, boys
will be conceived; but if the reverse is true, girls
will be the result.
A study of these various theories confirms our
doubts as to whether the true law has as yet been
discovered. If, as I believe, sex is in the soul, then
the sex of offspring must be determined by a law of
the soul. So far human knowledge has not arrived
in its investigations at sufficient data for understand-
ing that law.
The probabilities are that it will eventually be
proven that the parent whose mental forces previous
to, and at the time of conception, are most active
and vigorous, controls the sex of the child.
Facts proving any of the above theories are
solicited.
LIMITING OFFSPRING. 323
The desirability and practicability of limiting off-
spring are the subject of frequent inquiry. Fewer
and better children are desired by right minded pa-
rents. Many men and women, wise in other things
of the world, permit generation as a chance result of
copulation, without thought of physical or mental
conditions to be transmitted to the child. Coition,
the one important act of all others, carrying with it
the most vital results, is usual'/ committed for selfish
gratification. Many a drunkard owes his life-long
appetite for alcohol to the fact that the inception of
his life could be traced to a night of dissipation on
the part of his father. Physical degeneracy and
mental derangements are too often caused hy the
parents producing offspring while laboring under
great mental strain or bodily fatigue. Drunkenness
and licentiousness are frequently the heritage of
posterity.
Future generations demand that such results be
averted by better pre-natal influences. The v/orld
is groaning under the curse of chance parerthood.
It is due to posterity that procreation be brought
under the control of reason and conscience.
It has been feared that a knowledge of means to
prevent conception would, if generally diffused, be
abused by women; that they would to so great an
extent escape motherhood, as to bring about social
disaster.
This fear is not well founded. The maternal in-
stinct is inherent and sovereign in woman. Even
the pre-natal influences of a murderous intent on the
part of parents scarcely ever eradicate it.
With this natural desire for children, we believe
21
324 MATERNAL INSTINCT.
few women would abuse the knowledge or privilege
of controlling conception. Although women shrink
from forced maternity, and from the bearing of chil-
dren under the great burden of suffering, as well as
other adverse conditions, it is rare to find a woman
who is not greatly disappointed if she does not, some
time in her life, wear the crown of motherhood.
An eminent lady teacher, in talking to her pupils,
once said: "The greatest calamity that can befall a
woman is never to have a child. The next greatest
calamity is to» have one only." From my profes-
sional experience I am happy to testify that more
women seek to overcome causes of sterility than to
obtain knowledge of limiting the size of the family,
or means to destroy the embyro. Also, if consulta-
tion for the latter purpose is sought, it is usually at
the instigation of the husband.
Believing in the rights of unborn children, and in
the maternal instinct, I am consequently convinced
that no knowledge should be withheld that will se-
cure proper conditions for the best parenthood.
Many of our advanced physiologists and philan-
thropists teach that the law of continence should be
the law to govern married people in the sexual rela-
tion. (See page 157.) However, if a woman is not
convinced of the truth of this theory, or Is practically
unable to accord her life to it, we would suggest to
her the study of the physiological laws of ovulation.
Conception can take place any time after ovulation
until the ovum passes from the uterus. The time of
viability is from two to fourteen days. The balance
of the month conception cannot ordinarily take
place.
THEORY OF OVULATION. 325
Sterile women desiring offspring should seek sex-
ual union soon after the appearance of the menses.
Those not desiring offspring should avoid copulation
until the ovum has passed the generative tract.
Married people, in normal health, temperate in
the sexual relation, desirous of controlling the size
of their family, can usually depend upon this law.
Can conception possibly take place after sufficient
time has elapsed for the ovum to have left the
uterus.? Dr. Cowan says: "Sexual excitement has-
tens the premature ripening and meeting of the
germ-cell with the sperm-cell, and impregnation may
result, although intercourse occurs only in the spec-
ified two weeks' absence of the egg from the uterus."
Possibly this may be the case under some circum-
stances, such as diseased conditions, or after long
separation of husband and wife. It is, however, of
rare occurrence, where one's life is governed by
moderation, and the act is mutual.
Many of the means used to prevent conception are
injurious, and often lay the foundation for a train of
physical ailments. Probably no one means is more
serious in its results than the practice of withdrawal,
or the discharge of the semen externally to the
vagina.
The act is incomplete and unnatural, and is fol-
lowed by results similar to and as disastrous as those
consequent upon masturbation. In the male it may^
result in impotence, in the female in sterility. In both
sexes many nervous symptoms are produced, such
as headache, defective vision, dyspepsia, insomnia,
loss of memory, etc. Very many cases of uterine
diseases can be attributed solely to this practice.
326 WISER PARENTHOOD.
The objection to the use of the syringe is that if
the sperm has passed into the uterus the fluid cannot
reach it. A cold fluid may in some instances produce
contractions to throw it off, but cannot be relied
upon. Drugs that are used to destroy the germ are
usually injurious, and cannot accomplish the purpose
beyond the vagina.
A theory has been advanced that conception is
under the control of the woman's will; that by avoid-
ing the last thrill of passion herself, during coition,
she can prevent the ovules being displaced to meet
the male germs. This is, however, inconsistent with
the teaching that ovulation is coincident with men-
struation.
By some also a theory called sedular absorption is
advanced. In this, intercourse is had without culmi-
nation. No discharge is allowed. People practicing
this method claim the highest possible enjoyment,
no loss of vitality, and perfect control of the fecun-
dating power.
"When men and women learn that the procreative
function is the highest function of their nature, and
consequently that passion instead of dominating their
lives should be under the reign of reason, then may
we hope for a wiser, happier and purer race of
beings. Wiser parenthood and intelligent generation
is the surest regeneration.
In answer to inquiries for knowledge upon pre-
natal culture, we refer to A. E. Newton's estimable
work upon this subject. At first we were jealous
that such a needed work was not written by a woman,
but we have become thankful that that man lives
whose heart is in sympathy with the needs of the
PRE-NATAL CULTURE. 327
race, and was inspired to give us such words of wis-
dom. He teaches us that we may take the crude
metal, fashion and burnish it into a thing of beauty.
He directs the attention especially to the truth
that the father's responsibility to the child is equal
to the mother's. That his life must be pure, his
appetites subservient, and his soul filled with high
aspirations. To attain to such a life he must avoid
stimulating food and drink, as well as tobacco.
Few realize the ill effects 01 the latter, especially
upon the pregnant woman, the fetus and the infant.
In the mother the sick headaches, nausea, and many
nervous ailments of pregnancy are directly attribu-
table to the effect of tobacco smoke which she must
inhale.
The child in utero and in the cradle, is also poi-
soned by it. Chorea, paralysis, heart disease, con-
vulsions, and many other maladies are the result of
the father's tobacco habit.
TESTIMONIALS.
Many testimonials have been received from people
* ho have derived benefit from following the teach-
ings of Tokology. By permission a few extracts are
taken from letters which are only similar to hundreds
'received, giving wonderful proof of the efficacy of its
teachings. In some families the work is used as a
reference book, while others loan it to friends and
neighbors, keeping it on its mission of health and
/lappiness. Frequently the writer says: "I would
not take $10 for my copy if I could not procure an-
»)ther."
One writes: "It has been such a comfort to pre-
328 INTERESTING TESTIMONIALS.
pare dainty and palatable dishes for an invalid
mother from the recipes in dietetics. It- is a great
gratification to her that she can have even pies and
puddings that can do her no possible harm,"
Mrs. W., of Forest City, says: " I have depended
on Tokology for knowledge in bringing up my twin
babies. Have taken them through attacks of croup
and summer complaint, and have never called a
doctor."
Mr. J. C. A., of Henderson, Ky., says: "I have
been afflicted twenty-five years with constipation,
and rejoice to say I am entirely relieved by follow-
ing the diet and exercises recommended in Tokology.
I wish every one knew the value of these simple
measures."
Mrs. E. J. McElwain, of Michigan, says: "A friend
of mine, advanced to the seventh month of preg-
nancy, bought Tokology. She lived entirely by the
instructions contained therein. Last Monday was
confined. The child was born before the doctor or
any one could get there. She is a true woman, and
desires every woman to have the benefit of her
experience." This is only one of many similar
testimonials.
Dr. E. M. Hale, of Chicago, says: "I consider
Tokology the very best book that can be put into the
hands of a girl or young wife."
My Dear Dr. Stockham: — I have had three chil-
dren, and in the delivery of each have suffered com-
paratively no pain. With the two first the physician
was not in the house ten minutes before the birth of
the child, while the last was born half an hour before
his arrival, although he made all possible haste. I
ACCIDENTAL EXPERIENCE. 329
had never heard anything in regard to painless child-
birth. I never was strong, and being over thirty be-
fore my firsc" child was born, it was a mystery to my-
self and friends why I should have such easy labors.
Several months ago I read Tokology ^ and then I un-
derstood it, for accidentally I have lived according
to its teachings. My diet was entirely of fruits and
grains. Meats I had a positive dislike for, and never
ate them. Lemons I craved, and would eat three or
four a day, also all kinds of fruits. Pastries I cared
nothing for, living on rice, oatmeal, etc., and the re-
sult was, as you teach, a painless child-birth. One of
my friends, Mrs. M. H., of Springfield, Ohio, in her
first confinement, which was severe and prolonged,
came near losing her life, with that of her babe. The
cervix and perineum were lacerated, and her confine-
ment was followed by inflammation and prolonged
prostration. Her physician said she probably could
not again become pregnant; if she did she would
surely die. This was five years ago. Last spring
she again conceived, and was very despondent, fear-
ing the worst. When I heard of it I sent her Tokol-
ogy. Hopefully she began following its teachings.
She was amply repaid by being safely delivered, com-
paratively without pain, and having no subsequent
illness, in her own language, "feeling so well, it
seemed an absurdity to remain in bed." I have
known several others who have followed Tokology^
and in each case it has proved equally successful.
How I wish that every pregnant woman could have
this grand work. I know then that the agony so
many women endure would be prevented.
Mrs. S. a. Goff, Lincoln. Kan.
330 A FEW weeks' training.
Dear Doctor: — I am astonished at the benefits
derived from Tokology. I had the book only a few
weeks before confinement; when I procured it my
feet were so bloated I could scarcely walk across the
room. I followed the advice in the book faithfully,
and in a short time got so smart I could do my work
with ease. The night before confinement I walked
two miles and came home, feeling well. I got up in
the morning and gathered up my clothes for wash-
insT, but soon found I had other business on hand.
At lo o'clock A. M. I had a nice little daughter; was
sick only one hour, and no very hard pain. Always
before, my sickness at such times had been long and
severe; have lain unconscious for hours. My re~
covery, too, from previous labors, has been very lin-
gering. This time in five days I was dressed and
stood upon my feet; in two weeks was able to take
care of my child, and do much besides. No money
could buy my book from me. I most cheerfully give
my experience for the benefit of others.
Mrs. Maggie Mead,
Fricjid, Neb.
To Doctor Stockham, wnom I call my best
friend: — When about three months advanced in preg-
nancy I bought Tokology. My health was very poor;
I was a constant sufferer. My children had all been
weak and puny, and died when from three to six
months old. With the last I lost my own health;
many said I would not live to have another child. I
have followed the directions of Tokology to the letter.
From the first my health improved, and I had a com-
fortable confinement. The contrast to the previous
SATISFACTORY RESULTS. 331
Jabors was as day is to night. I can truly say I owe
my life to Tokology. Could I not get another, I
would not take $100 for it. I wish every woman
knew the value of the work as I do.
Mrs. a. R. Stewart,
St. Paul, Minn.
My Dear Miss Stockham: — In presenting me
your mother's book, you add another one to your
many kind and thoughtful deeds, which will aid me
wonderfully in my mission as wife and mother. To-
kology contains a wealth of enlightenment calculated
to promote all that is pure and noble. You and your
mother are truly great philanthropists.
Marie F. Bornefeld,
Galveston, Tex.
Dear Dr. Stockham: — My delivery was the
shortest and easiest I ever had. The Lord was good
to me in giving me what I needed. Tokology proved
a great blessing, as my health improved all the time.
I have a fine little girl, who is perfectly healthy. I
can, with good conscience, recommend Tokology. My
sister ofificiated as midwife by the instructions in the
book, though previously entirely inexperienced, and
did well. How can any one help understanding your
plain directions.^ I feel very grateful that Tokology
ever came into my hands. Some of the suggestions
are invaluable. Bathing the babe in sweet oil worked
like a charm. "Not tying the cord," of which some
were fearful, worked nicely. I thank the Lord for
giving you the power to write such a valuable book.
Mrs. L. a. Sherman,
Litchfield, III.
332 CURSE OF SUFFERING REMOVED.
My Dear Mrs. Talbot: — Your invaluable gift,
Tokology, reached me Christmas morning. I was in
bed, suffering intensely from uterine disease. I eag-
erly grasped the book and read as I never did be-
fore. Many times I have said that God had shown
no consideration iov frail, delicate vfomQn\ that bear-
ing children was a blight to womanhood and a curse
to the marriage vow. Why was this? My heart has
been in one life-long rebellion. I could not be re-
signed to the agony endured by wives and mothers.
I knew there was something terribly wrong. Tokol-
ogy has solved the problem for me. You cannot im-
agine how happy it has made me. Already I begin
to feel the joy of returning health. I want all my
friends and neighbors to have the book. My parents
and sisters must read it. I can never tell what a
blessing your gift has bestowed on me and us. I
thank you a thousand times.
S. L. PiGGOTT,
Shreveporty La.
The following is a P. S. to a business letter from a
lawyer: — Mrs. K. wishes me to add that she faith-
fully followed your instructions in regard to fruit
diet and sitz-baths, and owes you very much for good
results obtained. The doctor did not reach the house
until half an hour after the child was born. She
really experie.icedbut one severe pain, while our first
child caused her much suffering. We are both grate-
ful for the science you teach. W. F. K.,
Huron, Dak.
My Dear Doctor: — In all previous confinements
I had very severe after-pains; when I asked the doc-
AFTER-PAINS REMOVED. 333
tor for something to give relief, he replied unfeelingly
that this is nature's method of restoring the womb to
its natural condition, and that our first mother had
no medicine for after-pains. Thanks to Tokologyy I
had no after-pains this time. I followed the fruit and
grain diet, often using three lemons a day. I always
took a glass of hot lemonade before breakfast. How
good of a woman to write these things as you have
done for women. Yours truly,
Mrs. K. J.,
Louisville ^ Ky.
The following is from an experienced physician:
Dear Doctor: — I am glad to add my testimony
to the truths of Tokology. I was past thirty-five when
I first became pregnant, but by hygienic training
before and during pregnancy, I bore three children
without suffering. I ate food containing little or no
bone-forming material. Every day took plenty of
exercise; gardening, walking, gathering fruit, etc. I
was careful that my dress caused no restriction about
my waist, abdomen or hips, not wearing even one band
to an under-garment. I took sitz-baths before retir-
ing, and during the entire pregnancy enjoyed perfect
health. Still, on account of my age, I fully expected
some suffering in child-birth.
On the morning of the 3d of December I noticed
painless contraction of the uterus, recurring regularly
every hour, the intervals gradually shortening to
twenty minutes, by night. I spent the evening very
pleasantly entertaining company, no one suspecting
I was in labor. I went to bed and slept until 1 1
o'clock, when I was awakened by a positive expulsive
eHort; still no pain. I aroused my husband, asking
334 DR. LARKINS' TESTIMONY.
bim to prepare a hot sitz-bath, which was very grate-
llil. He was anxious to call the doctor and nurse,
and also to arouse my mother, who was in the house,
but I assured him it was too soon. Although I had
lived carefully, I fully believed I must suffer, and I
begged him to disturb no one until I became sick.
In a few minutes I felt I must arise from the sitz-
bath, and quickly knelt beside a chair. The next
expulsive effort brought a welcome little stranger. I
poured my heart out in gratitude for the knowledge
that had brought about such wonderful results. With
my own hands I tied the cord and removed the
placenta. I fixed myself nicely in bed and enjoyed
the washing and dressing of my own darling with true
motherly delight. My own mother in an adjoining
room knew nothing of the event until all was over.
The second day I was out doors, and the third I took
a short ride to visit a patient who needed a minor
surgical operation.
When my second child was born we had just made
the trip by steamer from New York to San Fran-
cisco. We had been out to an evening lecture, and
were guests at a Water Cure, separated from our
bcicgage. I had slept quietly about an hour, when I
became aware that I must arouse my husband to go
for one trunk with all possible speed. Although he
had to go only a short distance, which he accom-
plished in haste, the child was born without pain
while T was entirely alone. I really felt no need of
assistance. With the dear oy who has blessed every
hour since his advent, we continued the journey to
Santa Cruz the third day of his life, with no bad
results.
ABSOLUTE FREEDOM IN DRESS. 33$
My third child was born with only half an hour's
painless expulsive effort, and, as usual, I was up and
out doors the second day after.
If women could be made to understand what is
gained by absolutely dressing the waist free from any
pressure or constriction, we could hopefully predict
a near millennium of safety and freedom of pain in
child-birth. It seems almost hopeless to convince
any lady that the bands of her skirts and drawers are
any detriment to her in the performance of natural
functions. I have known of hundreds of cases where
natural conditions have brought about results similar
to my own experience. * '"" *
I must take from my diary one case, a strong proof
of the truths taught in Tokology. Mrs. H., of Phila-
delphia, in the fifth month of pregnancy placed her-
self under my care. She was married at thirty-five,
and soon became pregnant. At her full term, sur-
geons discovered deformity of the pelvis, and were
forced to perform craniotomy and instrumental deliv-
ery. She was told she never could give birth to a
living child. Twice subsequently, by eminent sur-
geons, abortion was produced, in order to save her
life. In this last pregnancy she was told that her
constitution was so undermined it would be certain
death to destroy the fetus, and she had better take
her chances by going full term. She came under my
care with the expectation of only four months of life,
very feeble, and a great sufferer. I was never more
determined that any one should have the advantage
of the truths of Tokology. I kept her out doors lying
on a cot, and had her practice deep breathing and
gymnastics. Three times daily she had thorough
336 A GRATEFUL WOMAN.
massage, taking cool sitz-baths frequently. She soon
began to take short walks, although when she came
she was unable to cross the room alone. Previous to
the birth of the child, she could walk with ease a mile
before partaking of her breakfast of fresh fruit.
Although deformed and apparently a physical wreck,
by reliance upon these simple methods only, discard-
ing all drugs, she brought forth a living child with
only a few hours of suffering. She has ever since
been a proud, healthy, happy mother. May God
bless you, dear doctor, in your mission of good health
to women. Ever faithfully,
Harriet H. Larkins, M. D.,
Wright, Dickey Co., Dak.
A grateful woman writes: — My reason for wishing
to sell Tokology is this: Twice I went down to death,
suffering all the agony a woman can suffer and live.
For what? Only to receive into my aching arms a
piece of lifeless clay.
The last time I was pregnant I stumbled upon
Tokology, and followed its teachings. The result is a
beautiful living daughter. These are glad tidings of
great joy. MRS. GEO. N. Jarvis,
ArapaJioe, Neb.
The following letter is from a lady well known in
philanthropic work. She says, — I wish to give you
the praise and credit of assisting me in obtaining
such an easy confinement, and such rest and good
health the last three months of pregnancy. I think
it was remarkable, in view of my age (forty years),
and the length of time (fourteen years) since I had
borne a child. I was very poorly the first three
A TEMPERANCE WORKERS WORDS. 33/
months. During my absence at Detroit, where I had
been attending the W. C. T. U. Convention, one of
your circulars was sent to me. At the urgent solici-
tation of my family I obtained the book. I am very
thankful for it. It has been of untold help to me.
From the first it gave me great encouragement.
I took a bath every other night. My food con-
sisted of graham gems, lean meats, cooked fruits and
a little hot water and cream. I ate nothing from my
noon dinner until morning, and slept much betterat
night. >Women eat too much. If they would only
try, they would soon get over that feeling of hunger
of which they complain. One thing they should in-
sist upon, and that is to sleep alone for at least the
last three months. The last night I slept well, arose
in the morning and assisted in preparing the break-
fast. After the meal was over, I sent for the nurse
and physician, who arrived about nine o'clock. Be-
fore eleven o'clock I had a beautiful nine-pound baby.
I had passed through my confinement with such
comfort that I could but wish that all mothers might
do likewise, and that I could have read your book
twenty-five years earlier. It would have saved me
great suffering and trouble.
Mrs. M. a. Luley,
Sf. Paul, Minn.
Mrs. Prof. Kinzie, of Emporia, Kansas, writes:
Mrs. a. B. Stockham, M. D.:
Dear Madam, — By direction of my physician, I
followed the laws of health as given in your valua-
ble book, and feel amply repaid.
Ten years ago, in my first confinement, I suffered
forty-eight hours, twenty-four of hard labor, and in
338 THE MILLENNIUM FOR WOMEN.
this second confinement not even one hour. This
was no comparison to the first. My baby (now four
months old) is the picture of good health, and I am
myself more than ordinarily well.
My diet was of fruit and vegetables, with graham
mush for breakfast. I was very regular the last three
months with my sitz-baths, taking them just before
retiring, and finding them very quieting.
I took a walk every day for the first seven months.
After that my only exercise was my housework. I
wish that this valuable book could reach all. If any-
thing I have said will help some poor mortal, I shall
be very glad to have you use my words.
Occasionally it has been reported to me that wo-
men following the teachings of Tokology in pregnancy
have failed in securing desired results. Almost inva-
riably in such cases investigation has proven that
some of the directions have not been followed.
Nearly always XSxq fruit diet has been adopted quite
faithfully, and sitz-baths taken as directed. Often no
special change has been made in dress, the exercises
and the hot bath at confinement have been omitted,
and the teachings in Chap. XI. entirely ignored.
These are all equally important with diet and bath-
ing The millennium for women, so far as health is
concerned, would be at hand if they could be con-
vinced of the injurious results of corsets, bands and
heavy skirts. These must be discarded. There is no
compromise if one desires the physical development
so essential to healthy child-bearing.
The stock-raiser would not allow one single girth
around a mare in foal that in any way restricted res-
REASONS FOR FAILURES. 339
piration, digestion and circulation, lest the mare or
her offspring be injured. In the physical life of
woman she is just as amenable to the laws of nature
as is the animal.
If a man were to exchange and wear his wife's
clothing, for one month, only he would show more in-
terest that the mother of his child should avoid the
deleterious influence of the fashionable dress. The
natural and artistic lines of the body must be pre-
served to insure the noble attributes and capacities
of motherhood.
Exerdseis especially essential in pregnancy. Those
recommended in Tokology increase the capacity of
the pelvis and abdomen, develop the muscles to be
used in parturition, aid digestion, and equalize cir-
culation.
Many ladies, following faithfully the directions for
exercise, have been very lax in regard to diet and
baths, and yet brought about remarkable results in
having an easy delivery. Several instances have
come to my knowledge of ladies who, having taken
elocution lessons during pregnancy, and with these
lessons a thorough course of gymnastics, have brought
about a natural delivery, where labor previously had
been prolonged and severe. These were persons who
had no knowledge of special baths ot fruit diet.
The following interesting letter is from an intelli-
gent lady who is selling Tokology as missionary
w ">rk:
Dear Dr. Stockham: — Be sure to tell the ladies
the importance of exercise during pregnancy. Many
a.'e blinded to any measure save t\vQ fruit diet. I had
Tokology only the leist six weeks of pregrcar4cy. Pre-
22
340 RESULTS FROM EXERCISE.
vious to that I had exercised very little. As soon as
I read the work I began gymnastics and walking;
took sitz-baths to remove any lameness caused. I
also went up and down stairs a great deal, following
directions in Tokology. To the very last week I con-
tinued canvassing for your valuable work. I had paiti^
less contractions of the uterus every few moments
during the entire day.
After eating my supper and refusing to play cro-
quet, as I had an engagement^ I hastened to my room
to prepare for the arrival of the little stranger. The
contractions began to cause some pain. I made use
cl the hot sitz-bath, and it gave wonderful relief. I
remained in the bath a long time, until I became so
sleepy it was necessary to go to bed. I had no hard
pain. The expulsive efforts were not as painful as
the first contractions, and those I had were in the
abdomen. After three bearing-down pains I laid
down, and the fourth pain brought the child from the
uterus into the world, and without any of that tear-
ing pain usually experienced. Ail was over at 10:30
o'clock.
This was my third boy. With both of the others
I was in labor all night and half of the next day, and
took chloroform for hours, the agony was so unbear-
able. Each time I was so sore and weak afterward
I could not move myself in bed. This time I could
move right away to any part of the bed; and the
next day sat up to eat food three times. I had my
nurse only four days, while each time before I could
not do without her under three weeks. I was out
selling Tokology in less than two weeks, and can as-
sure you, dear iJoctor, I never did any v/ork with
EFFECTS OF INDURATION. 34I
such a good will as this. It is taking a blessed truth
to women. Sincerely your friend,
Mrs. G. E. Brown,
Las Animas y Col.
It is probable, if a woman has had inflammation and
ulceration of the womb a long time, that she will be
unable to bring about conditions to insure a painless
labor. This is true, especially, if caustic treatment
has been resorted to, resulting in induration. In such
a case, a course of hygienic treatment during preg-
nancy will be valuable, but to restore the parts to
their normal conditions may require years of right
living.
I must again emphasize the need of continence be-
tween husband and wife during pregnancy. A lady
physician in Iowa relates many interesting cases
where labor was rendered almost painless, simply by
the continent life. Her theory is, that the repeated
contractions of the vaginal walls and vulva render
them unyielding, and consequently there is absolute
mechanical obstruction to the passage of the head.
The theory is certainly worthy of consideration.
I have long been thoroughly convinced that sexual
intercourse during pregnancy is entirely inimical to
the best conditions for maternity. The natural re-
pugnance that most women have for the act during
fetal growth, ought to cause right-minded people
serious thought.
Col. A. B. Meacham, who has spent much time
among the Modocs, says: "There is a tradition
among them that the Great Spirit blew his breath
upon a maiden, and said to her that she should be-
342 INDIAN TRADITION.
come the mother of the son of the Great Spirit. He
forbade her to look upon the face of man until the
child was born. To this day no Indian woman of
the tribe who is to become a mother, ever looks upon
the face of man."
Is it not possible that here is one potent reason
that Indian women have so little suffering in child-
birth? May not the intelligent white man learn a
lesson of purity, of self-abnegation, as well as of
honor to his wife and offspring, from the untutored
savage.'
We are counseled by eminent physicians, like Ac-
ton, Gerrish, Cowan and Winslow, that the continent
life gives to the individual the best physical develop-
ment, the greatest intellectual strength and the high-
est moral excellence, as well as promotes conditions
for the improvement of the race.
Prof. Huxley says: "That man has had a liberal
education who has been so trained in youth that his
body is the ready servant of his will * * * *
and who, no stunted ascetic, is full of life and fire, but
whose passions are trained to come to heel by a vig-
orous will, the servant of a tender conscience."
Dr. F. H. Gerrish says: "Man's procreative energy
should be to him a sacred trust, to be kept inviolate,
and to be ysed only with the distinct and definite
purpose of perpetuating his kind. His children would
never be accidents, but begotten intentionally, at a
time when both parents are in good physical and
mental condition."
Further, in opposing the prevalent opinion that
continence is a cause of disease, he says: "I very
much doubt if a member of this association ever had
THE BETTER WAY. 343
to treat a disease resulting from chaste continence. I
would emphasize the adjective, for nothing but harm
can come from the excitement dependent on the con-
stant or frequent entertainment of lewd imaginings,
even if one abstain altogether from sexual indul-
gence.
Rev. N. E. Boyd says: "Men need all their vital
force not required in fatherhood, for the performance
of the labors, material, mental and moral, whereunto
they are called."
A well-known author testifies: "Beyond doubt, as
men now live, continence is almost impossible. They
drug themselves with tobacco and excite themselves
with wine. They enervate their powers in heated
rooms, and read books which arouse lascivious desires.
Naturally, sexual passion attacks them, and if it be
refused gratification they become fevered and rest-
less, and declare that health demands frequent inter-
course, and suffers without. But it is Xiot 2l physical
necessity. Under certain conditions absolute conti-
nence is consistent with the highest health during
the whole lifetime. To attain this, however, one must
live in perfect accordance with hygienic laws; he can-
not expect to suppress one vice and yield to another."
The following wise counsels to fathers is in a
pamphlet entitled "The Better Way," by A. E. New-
ton: " The matron, when once her organism has en-
tered upon the work of developing a new life, should
be left unmolested by intrusion in that department of
her being. The work cannot be well performed — it
may be woefully defaced or ruined — if the energies of
her system are drawn upon by additional demands
upon the sexual organism. At all events, the intui-
344 TESTIMONY OF EMINENT MEN.
tion of the mother, when against the practice referred
to, should never be violated. To abstain from all
intrusive acts is a duty which no father can disregard
with impunity,
"The strength of the sexual appetite in men is
unquestionably the grand obstacle to the improve-
ment of the race in the manner proposed. But is
this strength in all cases purely natural and healthy.^
Otherwise, no one can rationally urge that its de-
mands should be indulged to their full extent — much
less that the personal rights, the health and happiness
of the opposite sex, and the welfare of unborn gener-
ations, should be sacrificed to its indulgence. * * *
Experience has proven that mastery can be attained.
A determined will— an earnest, constant aspiration
for power from above to overcome, with a careful
abstinence from exciting foods, drinks, acts and
thoughts, and the use of appropriate means to allay
excitement — these, persisted in, will bring the victory
in due time.**
William Acton, M. R. C. S., an English physician,
eminent in his profession, says: "True continence is
complete control over the passions, exercised by one
who has felt their power, and who, were it not for
his steady will, not only could but would indulge
them. * * * Granted, that continence is a trialy
a sore trial, a bitter trial, if you will, what, I would
ask, is the use or object of a trial but to try, to test,
to elicit, strengthen and brace whatever of sterling,
whatever of valuable, there is in the thing tried.^ To
yield at once, is this the right way to meet a trial.?
To lay down one's arms at the first threatening of
conflict, is this a creditable escape from trial, to say
BEST INTERESTS OF OFFSPRING. 345
no more? Nay, is it safe^ when the trial is imposed
by the highest possible authority? Our object ought
to be to preserve a pure and healthy mind in a pure
and healthy body. Judiciously directed, training and
exercise of both toward this definite object would, I
am sure, in most cases, reduce the difficulty of living
a chaste life to the minimum, and indeed render the
conflict rather a proud and thankful sense of self-
command than an arduous struggle. * * * The
man who can command even his thoughts will have
an easier task in keeping himself continent than he
who cannot. He has great power who, when physi-
cal temptations assail him can determinedly apply
his mind to other subjects, and employ the whole
force of his will in turning away from the danger.'
Carpenter, in a late edition of his work, says to
those who urge the wants of nature as an excuse for
the illicit gratification of the sexual passion: "Try
the effects of close mental application to some enno-
bling pursuit, in combination with vigorous bodily
exercise, before you assert that the appetite is unre-
strainable, and act upon that assertion.**
To parents desiring the best interests of offspring,
these quotations from men of known scientific and
professional reputation are worthy of careful thought.
Lives based upon these truths will make motherhood
desired, and offspring a blessing.
To secure the best possible conditions for mater-
nity, a lady should never lose sight of the value of
congenial, absorbing occupation. There should be
no leisure to foster morbid symptoms. Having
neither financial need nor desire for following a spe-
cial vocation, the systematic pursuit of some study
34^ VALUE OF A VOCATION.
as geology, natural history or botany, will make con-
ditions for satisfactory pre-natal culture.
Who knows but by throwing her whole soul into
the search, and thus being carried out of herself by
these ennobling pursuits, she may become the mother
of a Humboldt, an Agassiz or an Audubon.
A letter lies before me from a lady who had long
been a sufferer from chronic diseases. By following
the instructions of Tokology since her marriage, and
for some months previous to pregnancy, she has
overcome most of her troubles. She writes: " I
have good news for you. Two months from now I
expect to become a mother. The past six months*
life has been a constant joy. I never have had such
good health, consequently such good spirits and en-
joyment in my work. I am now spending four or
five hours a day in study — German and music, and at
his earnest request, Latin, with my husband.
"I do my own housework, and with my sewing,
social demands and daily walks, am busy every mo-
ment, yet, strange to say, I never seemed to have as
much leisure as now. We live simply, and, I believe,
sensibly, and I try to ^o the things that are best
physically and mentally for me as a mother, and for
the little one who is now part of my life.'* This lady
finds absorbing interest in training classes of young
girls for a noble womanhood and motherhood.
So many objects of philanthropic interest now ap-
peal to every woman that there is abundant opportu-
nity to reach out beyond self. In every c^' <;ction
the needs of humanity demand of all who have
hitherto been idlers, that they try the blesjedness of
unselfish endeavor. By responding bravely to these
SELF-HEALING. ' ^347
appeals in the days of prospective maternity, the
mother will find both present and future reward.
In pregnancy, as in chronic diseases, symptoms are
often attributed to imagination. It has been proven
that the imagination or belief can create, not only
symptoms, but actual disease. Physicians recognize
this fact, but are slow to acknowledge the correlative
one, that this same imagination or belief is of untold
therapeutic value in medical practice.
Dr. Evans says: "As thought and existence are
identical, a change of thought must necessarily mod-
ify our existence. To think a change in our bodily
condition, and not merely to think about it, will de-
termine all the living forces toward that result, as
certainly as a stream issuing from a fountain will
flow in another direction when we change the direc-
tion of its channel."
For self-healing, one can learn to abstract his
thoughts from suffering or from the organ aifected,
so as not to sense the pain. This is somewhat dif-
ferent from opposing the w///power, as is usually un-
derstood; indeed, it is rather the opposite. By an
introversion of thought, a/«^^?W condition is secured
and maintained. Evans styles this an ^impressible
conscious state"
Understanding the conditions, this state can be
attained by any one, and while in it pain and disease,
real only in thought^ can be removed. In this way
one thinks himself out of morbid conditions. One
then, really is only to think the opposite of his seem-
ing condition steadily, persistently and honestly, to
effect a change.
When a student at Olivet College, Michigan, I
348 OLIVET STUDENTS.
heard Professor Hosford lecture upon " Health and
Disease." He asserted that sickness could be in-
duced by working upon the imagination or belief.
In support of this statement he related a case of a
dose of flour, supposed to be ipecac, producing the
ordinary results of that drug. Four of the fun-loving
students determined to test this assertion. In one of
their rambles they saw a teamster on his way to pro-
cure lumber at a place some miles distant. They
resolved to experiment upon him. Awaiting his re-
turn, they stationed themselves at considerable dis-
tances and accosted him in a friendly manner. Each
of them, however, added to his cordial greetin|
words of dismay at seeing him look so ill.
To the first he stoutly denied any indisposition,
but to the second admitted slight indigestion; the
third found him looking miserable and suffering from
colic. He was persuaded to stop walking beside his
team and ride on the lumber. The fourth easily
induced him to resign the reins, while the teamster,
really ill at last, rode home reclining upon his load,
unable for the rest of the day to leave his home.
A curious experiment was tried by noted surgeons
upon a condemned criminal. He was made to be-
lieve that he was to be bled to death. Stretched
upon a table, bound and blindfolded, he awaited the
operation. The surgeon, with a sharp instrument,
pricked his flesh to simulate the opening of an ar-
tery. At once a small fountain, from which water
at blood-heat flowed, was opened over the supposed
incision; the water flowing freely at first, gradually
became less and less copious.
The surgeons and attendants spoke among them-
MIND-CURE A REALITY. 349
selves of his failing powers, of his pallor, of his loss
of heat and pulse-beats. They questioned him mean-
while as to these symptoms, which questioning he
answered in full faith that his life-blood was indeed
passing from him. He grew fainter and more faint,
gasped for breath, and finally expired.
If a well person can be made to believe he is ill,
yes, and really to die of his affection, as in the case
above noted, and also as is often noticed in an epi-
demic, may not a sick person be led to believe he is
well? Sometimes a silent suggestion of friend or
physician to this end is more potent than the spoken
word. In the former case the thought of the pa-
tient unconsciously seconds the thought of the
friend, while in the latter, argument and discussion
rouse an opposing force.
A pregnant woman, by ignoring her ailments, by
abstracting from them her thoughts, by occupying
her mind entirely, can bring about wonderful results
in overcoming undesired conditions. In following
the teachings of Tokology, care must be taken that
the mind is not directed to watching for and fos-
tering morbid symptoms.
The mindy the real self^ controls all the functions
pertaining to life, and its supremacy can be directed
toward removing morbid tendencies. One can train
the mind to this end. It is merely what is usually
termed ** getting above one's self," or "putting sor-
row, grief and pain under one's feet." It is simply
the conquest of self and sin, as taught in different
ways in religion and philosophy. Cheerfully, hope-,
fully bring the soul into harmony with the good in the
universe. Where there is light there can be no
350 HEALTH FOR ALL POSSIBLE.
darkness, where health reigns, disease disappears.
Learn to subordinate the body. Encourage all in-
dications of health. By a calm trust and a restful
faith in the Divine, sins of the body (disease) as well
as sins of the soul may be dethroned, and health and
happiness reign supreme.
For the sake of human progress, may every parent
lose sight of selfish interest, and strive to the utmost
for all conditions that shall favor the highest good
of offspring, " for to be well-born is the right of every
child."
AUTHOR'S SPECIAL REQUEST.
The author earnestly solicits every lady who has
followed the teachings of Tokology during pregnancy
to communicate the result. Her name will be sup-
pressed if desired. For the sake of all suffering
women she asks a faithful report upon these points:
What has been your experience in previous labors.-*
How long before your confinement did you have
Tokology?
What hindrances existed to your following the
directions strictly.?
Did you take all the exercises recommended.'
Did you climb stairs and walk daily.?
Did you follow any occupation or do housework.?
How ..ear did you dress according to instructions.?
Did you take the baths prescribed, and which gave
the most relief for existing symptoms?
Were hot sitz-baths taken during confinement.'
How faithfully was fruit diet followed.?
Did you eat meat, pastry or butter.?
Did you omit the products of the wheat.?
How many meals z. day were taken.?
Did you live a continent life during the entire nine
months.?
Give the length and severity of labor, also condi-
tion of child at birth, and its subsequent health.?
Did you have trouble with the breasts or any post-
partum disease.?
State length of time and particulars of recovery.
Add other items of interest, also experiences of
other persons coming to your knowledge.
(350
GLOSSARY.
Abdominal. — Belonging to the abdomen or belly.
Abnormal. — Unhealthy, unnatural.
Aconite. — Aconitum Napellus. Monk's-hood.
Accoucheur. — Surgeon in childbirth.
Adipose. — Fatty.
Adjuvant. — Aid.
Alterative. — A mild cathartic.
Amaurosis. — Paralysis of optic nerve.
Amenorrhea. — Suppression of the menses.
Ammonia. — Hartshorn.
Amnion. — The internal membrane containing the waters and fetiis>
Amniotic. — Pertaining to amnion.
Anemia. — An impoverished state of blood. Bloodless.
Anodyne. — Soothing pain.
Anteversion. — Bending forward.
Antiperiodic. — A remedy for intermittent affections.
Antiphlogistic. — Counteracting inflammation.
Antiseptic. — Preventing or retarding putrefaction.
Anus. — Circular opening or outlet of the bowels.
Aorta. — The great artery of the heart.
Aperient. — Laxative, mild cathartic.
Aphrodisiac. — To excite sexual desire, or to increase Ae generative
power.
.^/AMa. —Thrush. Infants' sore mouth.
Apis Mellijica. — Honey bee.
Arnica Montana. — Leopard's bane.
Arsenicum Album. — White arsenic.
Astringent. — Binding, contracting.
Auricle — Upper chambers of the heart.
Auscultation. — Act of listening to sounds in any part of the body
Axilla. — Arm pit.
Bacteria. — Infusoria. Microscopical insects.
BeUculonHa, — Deadly nightshade.
(352)
GLOSSARY. 353
Benzoin. — Balsamic resin from styrax benzoin.
Bronehorrkea. — Increased discharge of mucus from the bronchia.
Bryonia Alba. — White bryony.
Calcarea Carbonica. — Carbonate of lime.
Calenduline. — Mixture of calendula and cosmoline.
Cantharis. — Spanish fly.
Capillaries. — Hair-like vessels for conveying the blood from the
arteries to the veins.
Capsules. — Small membranous sacs.
Cardiac. — Belonging to the heart.
Catarrh. — A dischai^e from mucus surfaces of the body.
Cathartic. — A drug that increases the action of the bowels.
Caul. — The membranes which, not being ruptured, cover the child's
head and face at birth.
Cellular. — Composed of cells.
Cellulitis. — Inflammation of the cellular tissues.
Cervix. — Neck.
Cervix Uteri. — Neck of the womb.
Chamomilla Matricaria. — Wild matricary. Chamomile.
Chorion — The most external membrane enveloping the fetus.
Cimicifuga Racemosa. — Macrotis. Black cohosh. Black snake root
Clavicle. — Collar bone.
Clitnacteric. — A critical period.
Coccyx. — Terminal bone of the spine.
Cohosh. — Black snake root. Squaw root.
Colocynthis. — Bitter cucumber.
Congestion. — Over-fullness of blood-vessels.
Contusion. — A bruise.
Crural. — Belonging to the leg.
nys litis. — Inflammation of the bladder.
Defecation. — ^The act of voiding excrement or feces.
Depurition. — Removal of impurities.
Diagnosis. — Scientific determination of diseases.
Diaphragm. — Breathing muscle between chest and abdomen.
Diaphoretic, — A remedy that produces perspiration.
Diluent. — A substance that dilutes or thins liquid.
Diphtheria. — A malignant membranous disease of the throat.
Diphtheritic. — Pertaining to diphtheria.
Diuretic. — Causing increased discharge of urine.
Duodenum. — The first part of the small intestines.
Dystocia.— 'Vn&sxiX and surgical delivery.
354 GLOSSARY.
Eclat. — Brilliant reputation, distinction, prestige.
Emmenagoguc. — Remedy that promotes the menstrual dis-
charge.
Emulsify. — Soften, make milky.
Encicnte. — Pregnant.
Enema. — Injection.
Enteritis. — Inflammation of the intestines.
Epidermis. — Outer Skin.
Ergot. — Smut of rye. A poisonous fungus growth.
Etiology. — The science of the causes of disease.
Eustachian valve. — A valve of the heart.
Excoriation. — A chafing or abrasion of the skin.
Excretion. — Anything thrown off from the system.
Excretory. — Throwing off matter.
Exosmosis. — Passage of liquids through membranes outward.
Fallopian Tubes. — Tubes from ovaries to uterus. Oviducts.
Fauces. — The upper part of the throat.
Feces. — Discharge from the bowels. Excrement.
Fecundation. — The act of impregnation. Fertilization.
Fetal. — Pertaining to fetus or child in the womb.
Fetus. — Child in the womb after the fifth month.
Fimbriated. — Fringed, finger-like.
Flatulence. — Gases in the stomach or bowels.
Flex. — Bend.
Fomentation. — Warm or hot application to the body.
Foramen Ovale. — Opening between the auricles of fetal heart.
Friable. — Easily crumbled or broken.
Function. — The office or duty of any organ.
Fundus. — Body.
Ganglia. — Nerve centers.
Ganglionic. — Pertaining to ganglia.
Gangrene. — The first stage of mortification.
Gastritis. — Inflammation of the stomach.
Gclsemium Scmpcrvirens. — Yellow Jessamine.
Gestation. — Period of growth of child in the womb.
Glairy. — Like the white of an egg.
Gravid. — From gravis, heavy. A term applied to the uterus
during gestation.
Gustatory. — Pertaining to taste.
Gynecologist. — One who makes a specialty of gynecology.
Gynecology. — The science which treats of female organs.
Hamamclis Virginica. — Witch Hazel.
GLOSSARY. 3S5
Hemorrhoids. — Piles. Tumors in and about the anus.
Hydrastis. — Golden seal, yellow root.
Hygiene. — The art of preserving health.
Hyperemia, — Excess of blood in any part.
Ignatia ATnara. — St. Ignatius' bean.
Impaction. — Hardened and packed closely.
Impotence. — Incapable of procreating.
Induration — Hardening.
Infusoria. — Microscopic insects.
Insomnia. — Sleeplessness.
Integument. — Skin.
Intrauterine. — Within the uterus.
Introversion. — ^Tumed within.
Ipecacuanha. — Ipecac.
Labia. — The lips of the vagina.
Laxative. — Remedy increasing action of the bowels.
Liquor /miAi. — Secretion in which the fetus floats.
Lobelia l.iflata. — Indian tobacco.
Malaise. — Discomfort. Indisposition.
Mammary. — Pertaining to the breast.
Massage. — Manipulation of surface and muscles for remedial
purposes.
Maturation. — ^The formation of pus. The act of maturing.
Meconium. — First feces of infant.
Menopause. — Change of life.
Menorrhagia. — Profuse menstruation.
Menstruation. — Monthly discharge of blood from the uterus.
Mercurius Corrosivus.. — Corrosive sublimate.
Mercurius Solubilis. — Black oxide of mercury.
Metritis. — Inflammation of the womb.
Metrorrhagia. — Hemorrhage of the womb.
Miscible. — Capable of being mixed.
Morbific. — Causing disease.
Muco-sangtdneous. — ^Composed of blood and mucus.
Multipara. — Having had several children.
Nux Vomica. — Strychnos. Vomit nut.
Obstetrics. — Tokology. Midwifery.
Os. — Mouth. Used as mouth of womb.
Osmosis. — ^Transudation of fluids through membrane.
Osseous, — ^Bony .
Ova. — Floral of egg.
.9S0 GLOMA&Y.
Ovary. — Almond-shaped body in which the ova are developed.
Oviducts. — Tubes which convey the ova from ovaries to oteros.
Ovum. — An egg.
Oxygenation. — The process of combining with oxygen.
Parietes. — Walls of a cavity.
Parturition. — Childbirth.
Pathological. — Morbid, diseased.
Peritoneal. — Pertaining to the peritoneum.
Perineum. — The floor of the pelvis, or space between and including
the anus and vulva.
Peristaltic. — The peculiar worm-like movement of the intestines.
Peritoneum. — A membrane lining the walls and organs of the
abdomen.
Peritomtis. — Inflammation of lining membrane of bowels.
Pelvic. — Pertaining to the lower part of the abdomen or pelvis.
Phytolacca. — Pokeroot.
Placebo. — A remedy to gratify the patient.
Placenta. — The after-birth.
Placenta Previa. — Placenta presenting before child-birth.
Plethoric— YviXS. habit. Fleshy.
Podofhylhitn. — Mandrake. May apple.
Portal circulation. — Venous circulation of blood from the digestive
organs to the liver.
Post partum. — Subsequent to childbirth.
Primapara. — Woman who has brought forth her first child.
Prognosis. — Prediction of the termination of a disease.
Prolapsus. — Falling. Protrusion.
Prolapsus ani. — Protrusion of the rectum.
Prolapsus uteri. — Falling of the womb.
ProKJication. — Generation of offspring.
Pubes. — External part of the organs of generation covered with hair,.
Pubic. — Pertaining to the pubes.
Puerperal. — Belonging to or consequent upon childbirth.
Pulmonary. — Pertaining to the lungs.
Pulsatilla Nigricans. — Wind flower.
Purulent. — Consisting of pus.
Pruritus. — A skin trouble characterized by intense itching.
Pyemia. — Poisoned by absorption of pus.
Radial. — Belonging to the radius, one of the bones (A. the fore-arm.
Rectum. — Lower portion of intestines.
Renal, — Pertaining to the kidneys.
GLOSSARY. 357
ketroversiott. — Falling backward.
Retroverted. — Bent backward.
Rigor. — Chilliness. Convulsive shuddering.
Sacral. — Pertaining to the sacrum, the large, triangular bone near
the end of the spinal column.
Saline. — Salty.
Salivation. — Unnatural flow of saliva.
Sanative. — Health producing.
Sanguineous. — Bloody.
Sanguinaria. — Blood root.
Sanious. — Secretion tinged with blood.
Sciatic. — Pertaining to the hip.
Sebaceous. — Secreting fatty matter.
Sedative. — Quieting. Soothing.
Sedular. — Pertaining to seed.
Sedular absorption. — Absorption of the seed or semen.
Semen. — Secretion of the testes.
Septic. — A substance that promotes putrefaction. Putrid.
Septum. — Partition.
Septicemia. — Poisoning by putrid substances.
Serous membrane. — The lining of cavities which have no external
opening.
Seton. — An opening in the flesh made and continued by drawing
through a skein of silk or linen thread or horsehair.
Siesta. — A midday nap.
Silicea. — Pure flint.
Sitz-bath. — A bath in a sitting position.
Sphincter muscle. — Circular, contracting muscle.
Sperm. — Seed. Fecundating principle.
Sputa. — Matter coughed up from throat and lungs. Phlegm.
Sterility. — Barrenness.
Stertorious. — Stertorous. Deep. Labored. Snoring.
Stroma.. — Connective tissue.
Strumous. — Scrofulous.
Styptic. — An astringent. A substance that arrests hemorrhage.
Synchronous. — Happening at the same time.
Tampon.^h. plug to arrest hemorrhage.
Term. — Full time of gestation.
Testes. — Glands which secrete the semen.
Testicle. — Gland that secretes the semen.
fherapia, — ^TberapetUtcs. Remedies.
358 GLOSSARY.
Therapeutic. — The treatment of disease. Curative.
Tissue. — The peculiar structure of a part.
Tokology.— "^jCisxiCQ of midwifery. From Greek Tokot, childbirth
and Logos, discourse,
Toxocological. — Pertaining to poisons.
Trachea. — Windpipe.
Transudation. — The oozing of blood through a membrane.
Tympanitic. — Distension of abdomen. Drum-like.
Umbilical. — Pertaining to the navel.
Umbilicus. — The navel. The place in the abdomen from which the
cord is removed.
Urachus. —A ligament that sustains the bladder.
Urinary. — Pertaining to the urine.
Uterus. — Womb. — The organ in which the fetus is developed.
Vagina. — Passage leading from the womb.
Varicose Veins. — Veins permanently dilated, with accumulation of
dark-colored blood.
Fflj^/ar.— Relating to the bloodvessels.
Vena Cava. — The large vein communicating with the heart.
Venous. — Pertaining to the veins.
Ventricle. — One of the lower chambers of the heart.
Veratrum Album. — White hellebore.
Vernix Caseosa. — Unctious material found on a new-bom babe.
Vesicles. — A small cavity or sac in the human body.
Viable. — Capable of life.
Viability. — Capacity of living.
Villi. — Minute papillary elevations for absorption.
Viscera. — Organs within the cavity of the body.
Vulva. — Outer lips of the vagina.
Zymotic. — Caused by fermentation. A zymotic disease is one
caused by bacteria, or some morbific principle, acting like a ferment.
INDEX.
PACB.
Abortion... ,,,« 243
Absolute freedom of dress 335
Accidental experience. . , 329
After pains 197
" removed 333
Agent's testimony. 336
Alcoholic stimalaat 258
Amenorrhea 253
Analysis of food ».,. 137
Analysis of milk, .. „ 213
Aphtha 217
Appetite, greedy. 80
" lossdP 81
Artificial human milk. 212
Author's special request 351
Bandage 181
Bates Waist 103
Bathing in pregnancy ., .- iii
Bath, sitz ,. 113
« "hot 184
" sponge 112
" thermal 118
" Turkish 118
Better way , 343
Biliousness 46
Bill of f are in pr^nancy o.... 135
Blue baby „ 31
Breathing, waist 141
" instructioos for 142, 143
Bumingfeet. 85
Cathartic drugs 57
Caustic treatment 269
(359)
360 INDEX.
Change of life 276
Chastity in marriage 150
ChemilooD 102
Child bed fever 199
Childbirth, painless. ... 17
Children's rights 151
Climbing hills I48
" stairs I47
Cohosh 187
Colic of infants 219
Common sense shoes 99
Control of sex 321
Compress, cold Il6
" " in croup 117
Conception 28
Constipation 51
" causes of 52
« effects of 51
" exercise in 68
** exercises for 69
" of infants 222
" treatment of 58
Contagious diseases 238
" health „ 242
Continence, theory of « 157
" in pregnancy 159
Convulsions 240
Corsets 105
Cramps , 85
Croup, spasmodic ., 234
" membranous 334
Curse of suffering removed 33^
Dentition 229
Diarrhea in pregnancy 82
" of infants 224
Diet in pregnancy 124
Dietetics 286
" index 365
Difficult labor 183
Diphtheria ...236
INDEX. 361
PAGB.
Diseases of women 263
Displacement of the uterus 273
Divided skirt 103
Dress and freedom 104
" errors in 255,265
" physiological 98
" in pregnancy „..,. 98
Duration of pregnancy 33
Dysentery of infants 224
Dysmenorrhea 254
Dyspepsia = 42
Education of respiratory muscles , 139
Eight months child 36
Embryo, development of „ 29
«« growth of 33
Enema, warm or hot 48
" for sick headache 7^
Eminent testimony 271, 234
Entire wheat floor 61
Equestrian tighte 103
Ergot 187
" cause of child-bed fever 201
Errors in dress 255,265
Excess of milk 196
Exercise in constipation 68
" "pregnancy 13^
" results from. 34°
Exercises in constipation 69
*' " pregnancy..... ... I44
" for uterine diseases 267
Excoriation , , 218
Excoriated nipples 194
Experience extraordinary 133
" Mrs. Rowbotham 125
" touching 156
Fallopian tubes 26
Fashion in deformity 108
Fetal circulation 30
" heart-beat , 38
** nutrition. ,,..,, 29,32
363 INDEX.
PACE.
Feticide 245
Fetus, development of 35
Fetus, position 36
Flatulence 79
Flour of entire wheat ... 61
Fomentation, hot 115
Food, analysis of . . . , 137
" constipating 67
" laxative 67
Fowler's clarion note , 109
Fruit diet for pregnancy 126
" feast on 65
Gardening, light 139
Glossary 354
Greed/ appetite 80
Habits of cleanliness 209
Headache 74
" enema for 78
" sick 74
** and tea-drinking 74
«« remedies for. 78
Health contagious 242
" for all possible 350
Heart-bum 78
Hemorrhage 198
" hot applications for 198
" uterine 279
Hemorrhoids 79
Hot bread 54
" flashes 278
*« fomentations 114
" water bottle 115
" sitz-bath 184
Hygiene in pregnancy , 90
Hysteria 274
Impregnation o , . 28
Indian tradition , 342
Induration ,. 265
•• effects of 341
Infants ^.« 204
INDEX 363
PAGE.
Infants, artificial food 210
" bathing 205, 209
Infant clothing 206
" diseases 217
" nursing 210
Inflammation of the bowels 229
Injections 48
Insomnia 87
Insufficient milk 194
Instruments 188
Labor i74
" cohosh in 187
" difficult 183
" ergot in 187
" instrumental 189
" natural 174
Law of continence I57. 324
Law of Ovulation 324
Lesson for husbands 155
Leucorrhea 272
" in pregnancy 88
Lime and Charcoal 168
Limiting offspring 323
Liquor amnii 31
Lochia I97
Longevity and lung power 142
Longings 82
Loss of appetite 81
Lucrative work 96
Lung power 142
Magnetism 84
Mammary abcess I93
glands 28
Measles 239
Meat-fed children 215
Meddlesome midwifery 178
Membranes, fetal 31
Menopause 276
Menorrhagia 260
Menstruation • 252
364. INDEX.
MenstruAHon, cessation of 37
Metrorrhagia 198
Milk, analysis of , 213
«• artificial hnman 212
" excessof 196
'* insofficient 194
'• for nursing mothers 195
Military position 144
Mind cure 275, 347
Morning sickness 44
Mothers overtaxed 92
Natural remedies 282
Nausea 44
Navel, dressing of 205
•* poaching of » 206
Neuralgia 83
«' treatment for 84
Nutrition of the fetus 29
Obstetric harness 177
Offspring, best interests of 345
Olivet students 348
Opiates 220
Ovaries 25
Oviducts 26
Ovulation, law of 324
Pack, wet sheet 225
" infant ,.... 225
Pains in the side 86
Painless childbirth 17
FathoI<^cal symptoms 39
Parturition.... 174
" without pain o 17
Peritoneum 27
Perspiration, profuse 279
Physicians' opinions 19, 271
Piles 79
Placenta 30
" adhered 180
Post partum diseases 190
«* " treatment 190
INDEX. 365
VAOM.
Pouching navel. 206
Pre-natal cnltore 3^7
Pregnancy, diseases of 4^
" dresa in. 98
" duration of 33
" hygiene
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