Roman midwives had some understanding of medical practices, albeit limited. They were familiar with herbal remedies, which they often used to ease the pain of labor or manage complications during childbirth. Various plants were known for their medicinal properties, such as fennel, which was believed to help with labor pains, and rue, which was used for its supposed healing properties. These remedies were typically passed down orally, and many were based on local traditions and knowledge.

In addition to these herbal treatments, midwives also performed basic anatomical assessments and understood some of the essential aspects of labor. They were familiar with techniques to reposition babies during difficult births, helping to turn breech babies or assisting in cases of obstructed labor.

However, midwives were not without limitations. While some were quite skilled, many Roman midwives lacked a deep understanding of anatomy and medical science. They were not trained in the more sophisticated surgical practices that were known to some of the male doctors (medici) of the time. Complicated pregnancies, such as those involving breech births or severe hemorrhaging, often required the intervention of a physician, and midwives worked closely with these doctors when the need arose.

The Social and Religious Aspects of Midwifery

Midwifery in Ancient Rome was not just a medical profession but also had strong social and religious connotations. Roman society was highly superstitious, and childbirth was often seen as a momentous and potentially dangerous event. The presence of a midwife during labor was viewed not only as a necessity for medical reasons but also as a form of protection against evil spirits or bad omens. Midwives were believed to have the ability to protect the mother and child from harm, invoking deities and spiritual rites to ensure the birth proceeded safely.

The role of the midwife also intertwined with the religious practices of the time. Roman women would often invoke the goddess Lucina, the Roman goddess of childbirth, for assistance during labor. Lucina was believed to aid in the safe delivery of babies, and her divine assistance was called upon by midwives who prayed for a successful birth. The belief in divine intervention during childbirth was a significant aspect of Roman culture, reflecting the broader intertwining of daily life with the gods and spiritual forces shutdown123