Gone Medieval15 Juli 2025

Childbirth in Medieval Times with Kate Lister

This episode contains explicit language and graphic descriptions of birth

Today we're delving into historical childbirth's stark realities, facing the medieval attitudes toward childbirth, its dangers, and grizzly details. Dr. Eleanor Janega pays a visit to our sister podcast Betwixt the Sheets to be the guest of its presenter Dr. Kate Lister, and they explore the life of midwives, including their crucial role, training, and societal perceptions. They also touch on unique aspects such as the medical practices of nuns, the evolving understanding of childbirth, and the heartbreaking prevalence of maternal and infant mortality.

Dr Kate Lister is a sex historian and host of our sister podcast Betwixt the Sheets: History of Sex, Scandal & Society. Over on her pod, there are new episodes twice a week every week, and Kate explores everything from witch trials, to the sex lives of kings and queens, to scandals which change the course of history. Check it out if you haven’t already.

The Real Joan of Arc with Dr. Kate Lister

https://open.spotify.com/episode/2wgZwZ7RZt5d6AZOeLih2b

Medieval Sex Work

https://open.spotify.com/episode/0GDgtPZjN02v5Sf9fyv4jK

Gone Medieval is presented by Dr. Eleanor Janega. It was edited by Tom Delargy and Amy Haddow, the producer is Stuart Beckwith. The senior producer is Anne-Marie Luff.

All music used is courtesy of Epidemic Sounds.

Gone Medieval is a History Hit podcast.

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