“Lady Doctor”: Struggle of British Women for Higher Medical Education and Profession in Late Nineteenth Century

This article explores the struggle of British women to gain access to medical education and practice during the second half of the nineteenth century. It presents an analysis of documentary and narrative sources as well as contemporary scholarly literature. Central focus is given to the activities of Britain’s first female physicians. The reasons behind the development of women’s medicine are examined, along with its connection to the broader fight for women’s rights. Prejudices within Victorian society against female doctors are discussed. Florence Nightingale’s contribution to professionalizing nursing and validating women’s contributions to healthcare is highlighted. The role of the Women’s Medical Society and College established by J. Edmunds is analyzed, including the causes leading to their closure. Challenges faced by British women attempting to obtain a degree from Edinburgh University between 1869 and 1874 are addressed. Attention is also paid to the establishment of the London School of Medicine for Women, which became foundational for women’s medicine throughout the Empire. Key events include the Medical Act of 1876 that allowed women to legally practice medicine and the lifting of restrictions on female membership in the British Medical Association. Ultimately, it is concluded that through overcoming societal stereotypes and drawing support from progressive segments of society, this small group of pioneering British women demonstrated the necessity and importance of professional female medical care beyond traditional roles such as nurses or midwives.

history of medical education, feminism, London School of Medicine for Women, Victorian era