Women Who Paved the Way
Illustration of Dr. J. Marion Sims with Anarcha by Robert Thom. Courtesy of Southern Illinois University School of Medicine, Pearson Museum.
Pearson Museum, Southern Illinois University School of Medicine
Honoring Anarcha, Lucy, and Betsey
Anarcha, Lucy, and Betsey were enslaved women who were subjected to medical experimentation by Dr. James Marion Sims, a white male surgeon often referred to as the "Father of Gynecology." These women, along with others, endured multiple surgical procedures without anesthesia, causing them immense pain and suffering. Through these unethical experiments, Dr. Sims eventually developed a technique to repair fistulas—abnormal openings between the vagina, bladder, and rectum.
The First FEMALE Physicians
Take a look at these phenomenal women who made history by breaking barriers in a male-dominated field. Their resilience, innovation, and groundbreaking contributions have paved the way for future generations of women in medicine and science.
Dr. Dorthy Lavinia Brown
Dr. Brown was the first African-American woman to become a surgeon in the South.
Dr. Alexis Canady
Dr. Canday was the first Afrian-American woman to become a neurosurgeon.
Dr. Elizabeth Blackwell
Dr. Blackwell was the first female physician in the United States.