Sarah Stone (midwife)

Sarah Stone (fl. 1737-1766) was an 18th-century British midwife and author, notable for her published work, A Complete Practice of Midwifery: Consisting of Upwards of Forty Cases or Observations in that Valuable Art; Selected, from her Extensive Practice (1737). This book is significant for its detailed accounts of obstetric cases and procedures, reflecting the practical knowledge and experience Stone gained during her career.

Stone’s writings provide a valuable insight into the world of midwifery during this period, offering details on the instruments used, birthing practices, and common complications encountered. She advocated for the use of instruments only when absolutely necessary, emphasizing the importance of a natural and careful approach to childbirth. Her observations covered a range of conditions, including difficult labor, breech births, and postpartum complications.

Despite her contributions, little is known about Stone's personal life beyond what can be gleaned from her writings. The publication of her book suggests a level of recognition and authority within her profession, although the extent of her formal training remains unclear. A Complete Practice of Midwifery provides a vital historical record of midwifery practices and the challenges faced by women in childbirth during the 18th century. She is considered an important figure in the history of midwifery, offering a perspective from a woman practitioner within a male-dominated medical landscape.