Agatha Streicher facts for kids

Agatha Streicher (1520–1581) was a German doctor. She lived her whole life in a city called Ulm. Many people believe she was the first female doctor in Germany.

Becoming a Doctor

Agatha Streicher faced a big challenge. She was not allowed to study medicine at a university. This was because she was a woman. But Agatha was determined. She studied medicine on her own. She likely learned from her brother, Hans Augustin. He was also a medical doctor.

People in her hometown of Ulm recognized her skills. They knew she had enough knowledge to practice medicine. On March 15, 1561, Agatha was allowed to take the Hippocratic Oath. This was a special promise doctors made. It had been a rule since 1533. By taking this oath, she became a "non-academic doctor" in Ulm. This meant she could treat patients in her own private practice.

A Famous Doctor

Agatha Streicher's reputation grew far and wide. Many important people came to Ulm to see her. These included the Princess of Hohenzollern. The Bishop of Speyer also sought her help. She was especially known for a special medicine she made. This medicine helped people with bladder stones.

In 1576, she was even called to Regensburg. She went to help Maximilian II, Holy Roman Emperor. The Emperor was very sick with a condition called gout. Agatha could not cure him completely. However, she gave him four different medicines. These helped to make him feel better. She stayed with the Emperor until he passed away.

Her Legacy

Agatha Streicher was a very successful businesswoman. She helped make the city of Ulm well-known. In her will, she made sure to remember the poor. She left money to help those in need.

Today, Agatha Streicher is still remembered. There is a statue of her in Ulm. There is also a special memorial. A street in the city is named after her. A book was also written about her life. It was written by Ursula Niehaus.

See also

In Spanish: Agatha Streicher para niños