Girding the Loins

Join scientist Dr Sarah Fiddyment, medievalist Kierri Price and research development specialist Elma Brenner in conversation to hear about their research on a medieval English birthing girdle, Ms.632.

Kierri Price introduces you to medieval birthing girdles and their cultural and religious significance. Hear how these manuscripts provide physical and emotional support to women in pregnancy and labour.

Sarah Fiddyment explains how recent biomolecular research has revealed that Ms.632 was actually used during childbirth at the end of the 15th century.

Wellcome Library catalogue:
Birth scroll with prayers and invocations to Saints Quiricus and Julitta
Saints Quiricus & Julitta ( -304)
Date: c. 1500
Reference: MS.632
https://wellcomecollection.org/works/...

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