This article will address ancient Egyptians’ knowledge of the childbirth cycle from preconception to
postpartum and the similarities of these practices to modern knowledge and practice. From developing
the first recorded pregnancy test to using the favorable position of squatting in labor, the ancient
Egyptians
exhibited a base of knowledge that more recent use of the scientific method has confirmed.
Other practices, such as methods of contraception, can be seen as steps in the evolution of methods
used today. Ancient Egyptians emphasized maternal nutrition during pregnancy and care of the newborn
and mother immediately postpartum. Newborn assessment in ancient Egypt consisted of two
parameters—cry and muscle tone—that exhibits a historical technique analogous to the modern Apgar
score. Evidence also indicates that the ancient Egyptians devised strategies to suture perineal tears and
manage other postpartum complications. In addition to practices related to pregnancy and childbirth,
other contributions of these ancient people to medical practice and vocabulary were associated with
general women’s health.