John Braxton Hicks facts for kids
John Braxton Hicks (born February 23, 1823 – died August 28, 1897) was an English doctor from the 1800s. He was a specialist in obstetrics, which is the branch of medicine dealing with childbirth and caring for pregnant women. He is most famous for describing the special contractions that happen during pregnancy, which are now named after him: Braxton Hicks contractions.
Early Life and Education
John Braxton Hicks was born in Rye, Sussex, England. He was taught at home before going to medical school. In 1841, he started studying at Guy's Hospital Medical School in London. He earned his first medical degree from the University of London in 1845. Later, he received a higher medical degree in 1851. He became a respected member of the Royal College of Physicians in 1866.
Medical Career and Discoveries
Dr. Braxton Hicks started working at Guy's Hospital in 1856, helping women during pregnancy and childbirth. He became a full physician there in 1868. Later, in 1888, he also worked at St Mary's Hospital, London.
He was a pioneer in his field. He was the first doctor to describe special ways to change the position of a fetus (an unborn baby) inside the uterus (womb). This was important for safer deliveries.
His most well-known discovery happened in 1872. He described contractions of the uterus that happen during pregnancy but do not lead to childbirth. These contractions are often called "practice contractions" and are now known worldwide as Braxton Hicks contractions. They help prepare the body for labor but are not real labor contractions.
Other Interests
Besides his work in medicine, John Braxton Hicks was also very interested in Natural History. This means he studied plants, animals, and nature. Because of his work in this area, he was chosen to be a Fellow of the Royal Society in 1862. He also wrote many papers about his observations in natural history. He was a respected speaker and leader in medical societies, serving as president of the Hunterian Society in 1879.
Legacy
John Braxton Hicks is buried at St Thomas Church in Lymington, Hampshire. For some time, a special ward (a section of a hospital) at St Thomas' Hospital was named after him to honor his contributions.
He was also the father of Athelstan Braxton Hicks, who became a coroner (an official who investigates deaths).
