author
Edward Rigby
1804–1860
A leading 19th-century British obstetrician, he helped shape modern teaching about pregnancy and childbirth while also writing practical medical books. His career linked hospital work, medical education, and the growing professional world of obstetrics in Victorian London.
1 Audiobook
A System of Midwifery
by Edward Rigby
About the author
Born in Norwich on August 1, 1804, he was the son of the physician Edward Rigby and studied medicine at Edinburgh before continuing his training in Dublin and Berlin. He became known for bringing continental medical ideas to British readers and for writing clearly about obstetric practice.
In London he built a respected career as a physician, teacher, and medical writer. He lectured on midwifery, served at major hospitals, and published works on childbirth and diseases of women that were widely used by students and practitioners.
He is especially remembered as the first president of the Obstetrical Society of London, a sign of the standing he had earned in his field. He died in 1860, leaving a reputation as one of the important figures in the professional development of obstetrics in 19th-century Britain.