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WOMAN'5 5LCRLT5 
 
 A BOOK FOR A WOMAN'S PRIVATE STUDY 
 INTE.NDED FOR THE 
 
 WIFL, DAUGHTLR, MOTHLR 
 AND NUR5L 
 
 BY 
 ROYAL ALFRED McCLURL, M. D. 
 
 ILLU5TRATLD 
 
 RAINILR PRINTING COMPANY. Inc. 
 
 Printers and Publishers 
 
 1 1 6 Third Avenue 5outh 
 
 5LATTLL, WA5H. 
 
^ 
 
 k 
 
 'V 
 
 ^ 
 
 Copyrighted 1909 
 
 BY 
 
 Royal Alfred McClure, M. D. 
 
 <\S 
 
 ^ 
 
 © 
 
 
 
 C: 4 ^ 
 
 'J8240 1 
 
 SEP 
 
 20 
 
 1909 
 
DEDICATION 
 
 This book is dedicated to my daughter 
 
 Grace Hannah McCIure 
 
 The Author 
 
AUTHORS RLFLRLD TO 
 
 Gilliam 
 
 Taylor 
 
 Practical Gynecology 
 
 Venereal Diseases 
 
 Williams 
 
 De Lee 
 
 Obstetrics 
 
 Obstetrics 
 
 ASHTON 
 
 Davis 
 
 Practice of Gynecology 
 
 Obstetrics and (iyiicco 
 
 Kelly 
 
 logic Nursing 
 
 Operative Gynecology 
 Garrigues 
 
 Benedict 
 
 Golden Rules of Dietetics 
 
 Diseases of Women and 
 
 Dudley 
 
 Obstetrics 
 
 Gynecology 
 
 Raymond 
 
 Sandzen 
 
 Human Physiology 
 
 Natural Laws of Sex- 
 
 MacMillan 
 
 ology 
 
 Chronic Constipation 
 
 Prvor 
 
 Walling 
 
 Pelvic Litlammations 
 
 Sexology 
 
 Nystrom 
 
 Friedenwald 
 
 Diet in Health and 
 
 The Natural Laws of 
 Sexual Life 
 
 Disease 
 
 1^)UTLER 
 
 Massey 
 
 Love and Its Affinities 
 
 Conservative Gynecology 
 
 Hart 
 
 and Electro-Therapeutics 
 
 Woman and the Race 
 
 Gray 
 
 Anatomy 
 Talmey 
 
 Woman 
 
 Norton 
 
 Genito-l^rinary Diseases 
 and Syphilis 
 
PRLFACL 
 
 I have eiKleavored to make this book plain and prac- 
 tical for the daughter, wife, mother anil nurse. As often 
 as possible I have dispensed with medical terms: as. in my 
 judgment, a plain unilied discourse written in simple lan- 
 guage will make the varied themes more clearly under- 
 stood by the laity. ^^ly aim has been to Avrite a 
 book that will act strictly as a teacher, and instruct 
 the reader in that science which is devoted to the regener- 
 ative organs. I have tried to express myself on every 
 subject so that each one will be of practical benelit. I 
 have given sufficient technicpie to meet the recpiirements 
 and no more. The limits and nature of the book do not 
 allow any lengthy details. All late literature has been 
 consulted. 
 
 The book has been divided into thirty chapters, and 
 my chief object has been to select topics that will lead to 
 a better comprehension of those subjects upon which every 
 woman should be thoroughly informed. 
 
 I am indebted to my many friends and colleagues 
 who have criticised and made many valuable suggestions, 
 thereby assisting me greatly in the preparation of this 
 volume. 
 
 The illustrations have been carefully selected from 
 our best medical literature in order to inake clear the 
 
VIII PREFACE 
 
 subjects under consideration, and I wish here to express 
 my hearty thanks to the authors and publishers of the 
 works so used. 
 
 To the artist, Charles S. Russell, I am under obliga- 
 tions for faithful and efficient work in the preparation of 
 some of the illustrations. 
 
 ROYAL ALFRED McCLURE, ]\L D. 
 
 813 Second Avenue, 
 Seattle, Wash. 
 
CONTLNT5 
 
 CHAPTER I. 
 ANATOMY AND PHYSIOLOGY OF THE FEMALE PELVIC 
 
 ORGANS. 
 
 The External Genitals : First Group — The Moiis Veneris — The 
 Vulva — The Large . Lips — The Small Lips — The Clitoris — The 
 Hymen — The Vagina. 
 
 The Internal Genitals : Second Group — The Uterus — The Body — 
 The Broad Ligament — The Round Ligaments — The Vesico- 
 uterine and Sacro — Uterine Ligaments — The Cervix — The Fal- 
 lopian Tubes — The Ovaries. 
 
 CHAPTER II. 
 PUBERTY. 
 
 Definition — Change in Appearance-^— General Consideration — Men- 
 tal Change — Dangers of Early Maternity — Management — Food — 
 Rest — Exercise. 
 
 CHAPTER HI. 
 
 MENSTRUATION. 
 
 Definition — Time — Symptoms — General Symptoms — Local Symp- 
 toms — Regularity — Changes — The Uterus — The Tubes and Ova- 
 ries — Character of the Flow — Duration — Quantity — Cause — Men- 
 strual Life — Care During Menstruation — Kind of Napkins to 
 Use — General Remarks. 
 
 CHAPTER IV. 
 CONCEPTION. 
 
 Definition — The Ovum — The Spermatozoa — When Conception Oc- 
 curs — The Place Where the Ovum and Spermatozoon Meet- 
 How the Ovum Gains Access to the Tube — Life of the Ova. 
 
X TABLE OF CONTENTS 
 
 CHAPTER V. 
 
 TUBAL PREGNAXXY. 
 
 Definition — Cause — Location — Symptoms — Changes that Take Place 
 in the Uterus During Tubal Pregnane}' — How Tubal Pregnancy 
 Ends — Rupture of the Tube — Death of Child — Tubal Abortion — 
 Development of Child to Full Term. 
 
 CHAPTER VT. 
 
 HOW THE CHILD DEVELOPS IX THE UTERUS. 
 
 The Membranes — The Decidua — The Placenta — The Cord — Nutri- 
 tion — First Month — Second Month — Third Month — Fourth 
 Month — Fifth Month — Sixth :\lonth — Seventh Month — Eighth 
 Month— Ninth Month— 1>nth Month— The Duration of Preg- 
 nancy — Sex of the Unborn Child. 
 
 CHAPTER VII. 
 
 STERILITY. 
 
 Definition — Normal Sterility — Cause of Sterility in Woman — Cases 
 of Congenital Sterility — Acquired Causes of Sterility — General 
 Causes — Cause of Sterility in Man — Remarks — Treatment — Op- 
 eration for Cure. 
 
 CHAPTER VIIJ. 
 
 ABORTION, MISCARRIAGE, AND PREMATURE BIRTH. 
 
 Definition — Causes — How Abortion Occurs — Symptoms — Threat- 
 ened Abortion — Imminent Abortion — Inevitable Abortion — Com- 
 plete Abortion — Incomplete Abortion — Dangers of Abortion — 
 The Consequence of Abortion. 
 
 CHAPTER IX. 
 
 THE MENOPAUSE OR CHANGE OF LIFE. 
 
 Definition — Time — Early in Life — Late in Life — Changes and Con- 
 ditions That Occur — Effect on X^ervous System — Health — Insan- 
 ity — General Remarks — Treatment — Diet — Stopping of the Flow. 
 
 CHAPTER X. 
 WOMAN AXD HER AILMEXTS. 
 
 The Mother — The Wife — Hereditary and Congenital Influences — Ef- 
 fect of Disease — Education — Painful Menstruation — Undeveloped 
 
TABLE OP CONTENTS XI 
 
 Pelvic Organs — How Infection is Transmitted — Physical De- 
 velopment — Womanhood — Motherhood — Social Conditions — 
 ^Manner of Living — General Vitality — Perfect Physique — Occu- 
 pation — Working Class — The Factory and Shop Girl — Displace- 
 ment of the Uterus — Civilization — Savage Tribes — The Scale of 
 Intelligence — The Reproductive Organs — Care During Menstrua- 
 tion — Physical and Mental Rest — The Young Girl — Nature's De- 
 mands — Constipation — Poor Circulation — Pelvic Congestion — 
 Exercise — Outdoor Life — Gymnasium Work — Exercise and Men- 
 struation — Food — Errors in Diet — Wine-drinking and Over- 
 feeding — Indigestion — Dress — Improper Clothing — Tight Lacing 
 —The Evening Gown^High Heels — Childbirth — Neglected Tears 
 — Improper Treatment After Confinement — The Invalid — The 
 Knee-chest Position — Surgical Operations. 
 
 CHAPTER XL 
 SYPHILIS. 
 
 Definition — How a Woman Becomes Infected — Location and Char- 
 acter of the Chancre — Course of the Disease — First Stage — Sec- 
 ond Stage — Third Stage — Special Consideration — Syphilis and 
 Marriage. 
 
 CHAPTER XIL 
 
 GONORRHOEA. 
 
 Definition — Cause — The Infection — Parts Affected — The Gonococcus 
 of Neisser — Acute Form — Danger — Symptoms — Chronic Gonor- 
 rhoea — The General Health — Spreading of the Infection — Re- 
 marks — Marriage — Blindness in Babies — Epidemic Among Chil- 
 dren. 
 
 CHAPTER XIIL 
 
 VENEREAL WARTS. 
 
 Associated With Gonorrhoea and Syphilis — Location — Cause — The 
 Discharge — Remarks — Symptoms — Odor — Care of Infected Parts 
 — ]\.Iedical and Surgical Treatment. 
 
 CHAPTER XIV. 
 
 LEUCORRHOEA. 
 
 Definition — Character of Discharge — Not a Disease — Cause — Low- 
 ers the Vitality — Symptoms — Treatment— Prescription for Sim- 
 ple Cases. 
 
XII TABLE OF CONTENTS 
 
 CHAPTER XV. 
 
 THE VAGINAL DOUCHE. 
 
 Value — Articles Required — Kind of Douches — Hot — Warm — ]\Iedi- 
 cated — Cleansing — Uses — Duration — Time — Position of the Pa- 
 tient — Distended Vaginal Walls — Collapsed Vaginal Walls — 
 Proper Way to Take a Douche — Excessive Discharge — The Cold 
 Douche — Inflammation — Infected Douche Tip. 
 
 CHAPTER XVI. 
 
 HOW SURGICAL OPERATIONS AEEECT A WO^IAN WHEN 
 
 THE TUBES AND OVARIES ARE REMOVED. 
 
 Change in the General Appearance — Health — Acute Cases — Remov- 
 ing Only One Tube and Ovary — Insanity — N'crvous System — 
 Pregnane}' — Arrest of Sexual Development — Sexual Life — Men- 
 opause. 
 
 CHAPTER XVII. 
 
 MASTURBATION. 
 
 How the Habit is Acquired — Most Conunon Vnvu} — Imperfect Mas- 
 turbation — In Childliood — Symptoms — Resuhs — Management in 
 Children — Local Conditions — Nervous System — Advice to ^'onnii 
 Girls— A Mother's Duty— Save Our G"irls. 
 
 CHAPTER XVIII. 
 
 CONSTIPATION. 
 
 Definition — Causes — The Habits of Women Who Mingle Largely 
 in Social Circles — Neglect of Evacuation of the Bowels at the 
 Proper Time — Improper Diet — Insufficient Amount of Water — 
 Bodily Inactivity — Ill-advised Use of Cathartics — Effects — 
 
 Treatment. 
 
 CHAPTER XIX. 
 THE ENEMA. 
 
 Definition — Low and High Enema — Articles Required — Uses — Kind 
 of Enemata — Plain — ]\Iedicated — Formula — Hot Enema — Cold — 
 Warm — N^utritive — Formula — Fow an Enema Should be Given 
 — Position of the Patient — Colonic Flushing — Drop Method. 
 
TABLE OF CONTENTS XIII 
 
 CHAPTER XX. 
 
 DIET. 
 
 The Method of Cooking and Preparing Food — Vegetables — Cereals — 
 Meats — Fruits — General Rules for Preparing Soups — Liquid Diet — 
 Soft Diet— Regular Diet. 
 
 CHAPTER XXI. 
 
 INDOOR EXERCISE. 
 
 Muscular Development — Vitality — Pelvic Troubles — Complicated La- 
 bors — Too Much Indoor Life — Substitute for Out-of-door 
 Sports — Value — Time — Perfect Abdominal Muscles — Breathing 
 Capacity — Perfect Form — The Protruding Abdomen — Rules — 
 Special Directions — Exercises. 
 
 CHAPTER XXII. 
 
 HOT APPLICATIONS. 
 
 Effect of Heat — The Hot Water Bottle — General Consideration — 
 Use — Method of Application — Articles Required — Technique — 
 The Plot Blanket Pack — Moist Heat — Turpentine Stoops — The 
 Electrotherm — Dry Heat — Burns — In Diseases of Women. 
 
 CHAPTER XXIII. 
 
 COLD APPLICATIONS. 
 
 The Effect of Ice — The Ice Cap — Use in Fevers — The Cold Sponge — 
 Cold Shower — How iVpplied to Obtain the Best Results — Cold 
 Foot Bath — Cold Compress — Cold Pack. 
 
 CHAPTER XXIV. 
 
 BATHS. 
 
 Value — The Time to Bathe — Method — Position of Patient — Dura- 
 tion — Temperature of Water — Proper Exercise — The Bathroom 
 — Technique — How to Obtain the Best Results — Rest — Kind of 
 Baths— Full Bath— Half Bath— Sponge Bath— Spray Bath— Sitz 
 Bath— Turkish Bath— Sheet Bath. 
 
 CHAPTER XXV. 
 WATER DRINKING. 
 
 The Importance of Water in the Treatment of Disease — Tempera- 
 ture — Time — Effects of Heat and Cold on the Internal Organs — 
 
XIV TABLE OF CONTENTS 
 
 Flushes the System — Quality — Mineral Salts — The Filter — Dis- 
 tilled Water — Quantity. 
 
 CHAPTER XXVL 
 
 THE WOULD-BE DOCTOR. 
 
 The Real Physician — Kind of Doctors — The Illiterate Practitioner — 
 Frankness and Honesty — Advancement of Medical Science — 
 Shaken Confidence — Midwives — Friend of the Family. 
 
 CHAPTER XXVH. 
 
 WHEN TO CONSULT AND PAY A PHYSICIAN. 
 
 Sickness — Neglect — Results — A Valuable Lesson — The Hospital Case 
 — Cash and Credit — Discuss Money Matters — The Doctor a Poor 
 Business Man — Confinement Cases — Choice of a Physician — The 
 Cheap Doctor — Changing Doctors. 
 
 CHAPTER XXVIII. 
 PATENT MEDICINE. 
 
 Woman's Worst Enemy — Action Upon the Pelvic Organs — Effect 
 Upon General Health — Effect Upon the Mind — 1>mporary In- 
 sanity — Action of the Government — Methods of Manufacture — 
 Money Spent. 
 
 CHAPTER XXIX. 
 MARRIAGE. 
 
 Community of Interests — Ruling Impulse — Establishment of a Home 
 — The Normal State — Awakening to Dominant Instinct — Pur- 
 suit of Self-support — The Ideal Life — True Love — God's Best 
 Gift to Man — A False and Hasty Marriage — The Home Circle 
 in Place of Society — A Perfect Union — Advice to Parents — Fit- 
 ness for Marriage — Occupation and Labor — Perfect Physique — 
 Marriage and Disease. 
 
 Sexual Life of Both Sexes : Natural Passion — Noble Ideas — 
 Moral Sentiment — The Narrow Minded — Nature's Laws — Truth 
 and Humanity — Disease, Unhappiness and Suffering — Ignorance 
 — Knowledge — Physiological Gratification — Suppression in Wo- 
 men — Human Needs — Life and Love — A Beautiful Picture — 
 
TABLE OF CONTENTS XV 
 
 Greatness and Truth — Moral Character — False Teachings of the 
 Church — Christianity and Society — Education for Husband and 
 Wife— The Real Sexual Life. 
 
 Physiology and Effect : Development of the vSexual Organs — Se- 
 cretion of the Spermatozoa — Will Power — Character — Intellec- 
 tual Powers — Vitality — Cause of Sexual Desire — Self Control — 
 Xerve Vibration — Involuntary Emissions of Semen — Cold Na- 
 tures — Indifferent Mothers — Lack of Sexual Desire — Age — Fre- 
 quency of Intercourse — Impotency — Abnormal Sexual Appetite — 
 Lack of Gratification After Marriage — Incomplete Intercourse — 
 Pelvic Congestion — Tender and Sympathetic Attitude — Perfect 
 Sexual Life — Abstinence — Results — Law of Kindness, Devotion 
 and Love. 
 
 Morality : A Criticism — Heart-to-Heart Talk — In ]\Iarried Life — 
 Educate the Young — Moral Life a Pleasure — The Standard by 
 Which to Judge Morals— The Human Brain — A ]\Ioral Obliga- 
 tion — Sexual Morality — floral Progress — The Jewel of Chas- 
 tity — Purity of the Woman — Adultery on the Part of the Hus- 
 band — The Individual Law — W^oman's Aid — Feminine Modesty 
 — Inheritance — The Ruined Young Life — How to Prevent Pros- 
 titution — Causes of the Present Immorality — Chastity Will- Soon 
 be the Ideal for Men and Women. 
 
 CHAPTER XXX. 
 THE IDEAL WIFE. 
 
 Fitness for Marriage — A Mother's Dut}' — The Ideal — The Hand- 
 some Wife — Housekeeping — A Cheerful Disposition — Tact — A 
 Study of the Husband's Business — Economy — Jealousy — Per- 
 sonal Appearance — Dress — The Accomplished Wife — The Hus- 
 band's Sweetheart and Lover. 
 
 CHAPTER XXXI. 
 CHOOSIXG A COMPANION. 
 
 Responsibility — A Man's Financial Condition — Social Positions — 
 Wild Oats — "Wine, Cards and Women" — Reforming a Man — 
 Think Today, Not Tomorrow — True Love — Flattery — The P.eal 
 Man. 
 
 CHAPTER XXXH. 
 
 HUSBAND AND WIFE. 
 
 A Husband's Duty — Home Life — A Wife's Work — The Happy Union 
 — Love and Religion — A Home Without Children — A Pal and 
 Comrade — Whv Men Prefer the Club to Home — Contentment. 
 
XVI TABLE OF CONTENTS 
 
 CHAPTER XXXIII. 
 
 LOVER AND SWEETHEART. 
 
 A Gentleman's Attention — Relation Toward Each Other — Courtship 
 — Love at First Sight — A Friend, Sweetheart and Wife — The 
 Engagement. 
 
 CHAPTER XXXIV. 
 
 HOW TO BE BEAUTIFUL. 
 
 Beauty and Health — Worry — Discontent — Exercise — Fresh Air — 
 Care of the Face — Improper Diet — Internal Disorders — Unclean- 
 liness — Lack of Sleep — Exposure to Heat or Cold — Care of the 
 Hair — Constant Brushing — Lotions — Baldness — Massage — The 
 Shampoo — Hair Dye — Care of the Hands — A Thing of Beauty 
 — The Cuticle — The Nails. 
 
 CHAPTER XXXV. 
 
 GOLDEN RULES. 
 
 A Few Gems of Thought Copied from Various Authors. 
 'The highest culture is to speak no evil." 
 
INTRODUCTION 
 
 ^'As upon the stainless skies 
 
 Peaceful hangs the neiv horn snn; 
 So upon thy bosom lies. 
 
 Mother pure thy holy one. 
 Ah^ hoiv lovely that repose 
 
 Mother ivith the infant fair — 
 Twined, as with the tender rose. 
 
 Modesty, grace and siveetness are.'' 
 
 To the Mother : 
 
 This volume has a definite purpose — to instruct you 
 upon matters of vital importance that you may in turn 
 instruct your daughter. If, perchance, you are timid about 
 such things, as so many are, then let her study well its 
 contents. You sacrifice much to educate her in music, art, 
 and science. You give little thought to that knowledge 
 which is of far greater moment to her. You keep her 
 ignorant of self — that she may learn, oft-times, by sad 
 experience. It is in your hands to save her remorse and 
 suffering. Teach her, I beg you, how to protect her virtue 
 and her health. 
 
 My dear mother, when your child comes to you for 
 the first time asking you for a sacred truth concerning 
 the mysteries of life, do not evade her questions. What 
 do you say to your daughter? What do you hope for 
 
XVIII INTRODUCTION 
 
 her future? What can you hope if you give her answers 
 like these^ "Never mind, you will learn it all some day." 
 "Foolish child, you must not talk about such things until 
 after you are married," "Why do you ask such questions? 
 How disgraceful! Never niention it again," "That's 
 nothing; you will learn it soon enough." Are you one 
 of those mothers who says to her medical adviser, "Oh, 
 there are certain things I cannot tell my daughter. I 
 prefer to let her find out such things the best way she 
 can"f What a pity! How I shudder at such a I'emai'k, 
 for I know too well what it means to that child. 
 
 Mother, do not let your young daughtei* obtain in- 
 formation upon this topic from older associates or strang- 
 ers. Your duty as a ('hristian demands that you put 
 forth your best efforts to train your cliiklren wis(4y and 
 well. It is necessary that they have a knowledge of 
 self and sex, and I want you to impart that knowledge 
 with entire frankness. Will you allow your daughter 
 to go into the world, her mind dazed with a wondering 
 curiosity which must in some way be satisfied? She 
 may make a mistake which nuiy bring unhappiness, per- 
 haps disgrace, upon you. Would you turn your child 
 out and censure her severely because you have not been 
 a real mother? I beg of you not to wait until she has 
 reached the age of twenty before you talk to her. It 
 is her right to know herself and it is your duty to inform 
 
INTRODUCTION XIX 
 
 her while she is yonng, tender and easy to teach and 
 guide. Take time to enjoy your daughter's girlhood. 
 Be her chum. Have her confidence and do not let her 
 tell her secrets to her sympathetic friends instead of 
 coming to you. 
 
 You may think I am wrong when I insist that 
 mothers should be explicit with their daughters upon 
 the mysteries of life. You are not called upon to wit- 
 ness, as are men of the medical profession, the untold 
 suffering which is the frequent and appalling result of 
 false modesty and ignorance. It is true that a feeling of 
 responsibility comes over me when I endeavor to place 
 before you in simple language these chapters which deal 
 with the relations that exist between human beings and 
 the laws that govern all mankind. The importance of 
 and demand for a work of this character cannot be 
 questioned. It has been my aim to select subjects which, 
 studied coUectivelv, will give the product of knowledge 
 gleaned from the fields of our best medical authorities. 
 I trust nothing has been omitted which will give a clear 
 understanding of ''Woman's Secrets" to the mother, 
 daughter, wife, and nurse. 
 
 In the name of true womanhood I beseech you to 
 study this matter earnestly. Regard this volume as a 
 reproach, not upon you, but rather upon the false system 
 of educating girls as to self, life, and sex. I cannot find 
 
XX INTRODUCTION 
 
 words to express the great necessity for the enlighten- 
 ment of our young women. Years of experience as a 
 physician tell me how much needed is a change from 
 silence and ignorance to plain-speaking and. knowledge. 
 Find the faith and courage to impart, as only a mother 
 can, that knowledge to your child. When she goes from 
 you to her husband let her take with her a gift of im- 
 measurable value, a book w^hose chapter on ''Marriage'' 
 may save the happiness of her and hers. ]\Iake of your 
 child a woman who knows her rights and duties as a wife 
 and mother. If you succeed you will have laid the founda- 
 tion of a happy home, and future generations will call 
 you blessed. 
 
CHAPTER I. 
 
 ANATOMY AND PHYSIOLOGY OF THE FEMALE 
 PELVIC ORGANS. 
 
 A knowledge of the location and physiology of the 
 female pelvic organs is an essential foundation to a 
 further knowledge of life and sex. We haA^e striven to 
 eliminate, in this discussion, many tiresome details re- 
 lating to the anatomy of thje parts, and have used cuts 
 to give a clearer comprehension of the reading matter. 
 A careful study of each illustration will be of immense 
 value to the woman who desires an easy method of obtain- 
 ing necessary information. 
 
 We have for consideration the external and internal 
 genitals. 
 
 The external genitals are the organs of copulation, 
 while the internal are the reproductive organs. The 
 Mons Veneris, Yulva, and Vagina form the first group; 
 the Uterus (womb), Fallopian tubes and Ovaries form 
 the second. 
 
 THE EXTERNAL GENITALS. 
 First Group. 
 
 MONS VENERIS. 
 
 The Mons Veneris is the only part of the genitals 
 which can be seen when a woman stands erect. It is 
 
2 WOMAN'S SECRETS 
 
 located at the lowest part of the abdomen, and is covered 
 
 with coarse hair. On men the hair extends np on the 
 
 P'ig-. 1 — 1, Mons veneris. 2, Large Hps. 3, Sman Hps. 4, Opening in^o 
 the vag-ina. 5. Prepuce (covering- of cHtoris). 6. CHtoris. 7. 
 Meatus (opening into bladder). 8, The hymen. 9, The point 
 of union of the large lips. This is where the tear occurs dur- 
 ing childbirth. 
 
 abdomen; on women it is confined to a straight or curved 
 line at the npper border of mons veneris. See Fig. 1-1. 
 
 The growth of hair begins at puberty, and it is usually 
 curly and darker than that of the head. 
 
 VULVA. 
 
 The Vulva forms and surrounds the entrance to the 
 
THE VULVA 3 
 
 genilal canal. It is composed of several parts (See Fig. 1). 
 Those for special consideration are the large and small 
 lips, the clitoris, and the hymen. 
 
 The Large Lips (labia majora). Fig. 1-2, are promi- 
 nent ridges located on each side of the opening, 
 practically a continuation of the mons veneris. The 
 outer surface is darker than the rest of the skin and 
 is covered with hair which is a continuation of that on 
 the mons veneris. The inner surface is of a rose color 
 and has a sparse down scattered over it. The lips unite 
 in the center just above the clitoris. Fig. 1-6, where 
 they are thick, but as they pass along the sides of the 
 opening towards the back they become ver}^ thin and are 
 frequently torn at childbirth. Fig. 1-9. 
 
 The Small Lips (labia minora), Fig. 1-3, are two 
 small folds of skin which lie just inside the large 
 lips. In front they divide into two layers, an upper and 
 lower: the upper forms the prepuce. Fig. 1-5, a covering 
 for the clitoris, but is not attached to it. The lower 
 layer passes under the clitoris and is fastened to its 
 under surface. In some women the small lips extend 
 as far back as the large lips, and in this way form a 
 ring inside the large lips: in other cases they extend 
 back only half way. The small lips have no hair on their 
 surface, nor are they composed of fat like the large lips. 
 
 The Clitoris, Fig. 1-6, corresponds to the penis in 
 
4 WOMAN'S SECRETS 
 
 the man, but differs very much in structure. It is about 
 an inch long and extends backwards, is divided into two 
 parts near its center, and each part is attached to the 
 bone which is located just under the mons veneris. Only 
 a very small part can be seen as it is covered by the 
 small lips, and in many women this covering must be 
 pulled back before it is at all visible. It is very rich in 
 nerve supply of a peculiar sensitive kind, and, therefore, 
 the clitoris is the chief seat of sexual excitement in 
 women, and is often the object of masturbation. 
 
 The Hjnuen, Pig. 1-8, is a fold of tissue that more 
 or less completely closes the opening into the vagina. 
 
 i 
 
 ii'jt 
 
 m 
 
 I 
 
 i 
 
 (Gar- 
 
 Fig-. 2 — Showing- the common form of hymen, a simple linear, 
 rigues Diseases of Women.) 
 
 Fig. 3 — Showing the hymen in the form of a ring. (Garrigues Dis- 
 eases of Women.) 
 
 It presents marked differences in shape and consistence. 
 The most common forms are shown in Pigs. 2 and 3. 
 
THE HYMEN 
 
 As a rule it ruptures very easily at the first successful 
 connection, into two or three flaps, as illustrated in Fig\ 6. 
 Considerable resistance is felt and pain is produced by 
 the examining finger in a case where the hymen is not 
 ruptured. In some cases it may be so dense that copula- 
 tion cannot take place until after a surgical operation: 
 especially is this true in the imperforated form, Fig. 5. 
 The jnembrane may be destroyed in early childhood by 
 masturbation, for the sake of cleanliness, or by a care- 
 less examination. Connection mav occur several times 
 
 Fig-. 4 — Showing hymen with the edges of the ring indented. (Ashton 
 
 Practice of Gynecology.) 
 Fig. 5 — Showing imperforated form of hymen. (Ashton Practice of 
 
 Gj^necology.) 
 
 without injuring the hymen. Occasionaly it remains 
 intact during childbirth. Fig. 4. 
 
6 
 
 WOMAN ^S SECRETS 
 
 VAGINA. 
 
 The Vagina, Pigs. 7 and 15, is a tube-like canal which 
 extends from the vulva to the uterus. It is located he- 
 
 Fig-. 6 — Normal injury during sexual intercourse. (WiHiams' Ob- 
 stetrics.) 
 
 tween the bladder and rectum. The upper part near 
 tlie uterus is easily dilated by air or water into the shape 
 of a funnel, as illustrated in Chapter XV. Its normal 
 form is that of the letter H. The front and back walls 
 come together in the center, and the side wall is folded 
 against itself, as illustrated in Pig. 8. 
 
 The size and length of the vagina vary in different 
 women and under different conditions. In the virgin 
 the front wall is about two inches long, while the back 
 wall is about two and one-half inches. Sexual inter- 
 
THE VAGINA 
 
 course and childbirth greatly increase these dimensions. 
 
 The upper part of the vagina is completely closed; 
 
 the walls are attached to the uterus, and the cervix (the 
 
 neck of the uterus), projects into the pocket thus formed. 
 
 Fig- .7 — Scheme to show the vagina and other pelvic org-ans. a, 
 pelvic bone just under the mons veneris, b, Bladder, c, Small 
 intestines, d, Large intestines, e, Rectum, f, The muscles be- 
 tween vagina and rectiim. g, Vulva. h, Vagina. i. Uterus. 
 (Garrigues Diseases of Women.) 
 
 The vagina has three important functions: 
 
 1. It serves as an outlet for the menstrual flow 
 and other discharges from the uterus. 
 
 2. It is the female organ of copulation. 
 
 3. It forms part of the birth-canal and helps move 
 the child forward during labor. 
 
8 WOMAN'S SECRETS 
 
 The normal secretions of the vagina prevent infec- 
 tion by destroying some forms of bacteria that in various 
 ways find entrance into the vagina. The walls of the 
 vagina are kept moist by a small amount of secretion 
 from the uterus. On each side of the opening of the 
 
 Fig. 8 — Showing- cross section of the vagina. va, Vagina. ur, 
 Urethra, r, Rectum, f, Muscle around the vagina and rectum. 
 (Garrigues Diseases of Women.) 
 
 vagina near its juncture with the hymen, is located the 
 so-called Vulvo-vaginal Gland, Pig. 9. A duct leading 
 from the gland opens into the vagina just in front of 
 the hymen. It secretes a fluid that keeps the vulva moist 
 and acts as a lubricant during sexual excitement. If 
 the opening to the gland becomes closed on account of 
 
THE VAGINA 9 
 
 any inflammation, or if any infection like gonorrhoea 
 gets into the gland, an abscess is formed, Fig. 10. A 
 bruise will cause the same condition. These labia ab- 
 
 Fig". 9 — The vulvo- vaginal gland. A. A. A., The large and small 
 lips cut through and separated. G. Muscle retracted to show 
 gland. B. D., Gland. C, Duct leading- from gland to vagina. 
 C, Opening. E, Muscle that is under the gland and around the 
 vag-ina. (Garrigues Diseases of ^^omen.) 
 
 scesses are very common and cause severe pain during 
 their formation. After the gland is once infected it 
 should be removed by surgical operation, as simply 
 lancing the abscess after once formed rarely results in 
 a permanent cure. 
 
 THE INTERNAL GENITALS. 
 Second Group. 
 
 THE UTERUS. 
 
 The Uterus, Fig. 11. is a muscular structure located 
 in the lower part of the pelvis between the bladder and 
 
10 
 
 WOMAN ^S SECRETS 
 
 the rectum; it is beloAv the abdominal cavity and above 
 the vagina. It resembles a flattened pear in shape: the. 
 small end points downward into the vagina; the larger 
 
 ' ^. ' ■Mhm'ihf If^iiii^iii^^ 
 
 4 
 
 ^^HmMP^^^^^H^^t ' ** ^^m 
 
 1 
 
 ^R^B^%, i 
 
 1 
 
 
 1 
 
 
 t 
 
 i^I^^^^^Hk' "^ 
 
 I 
 
 V ^^^^^^^^Kv^ 
 
 J 
 
 
 
 .. f 
 
 
 ^^mt> 
 
 
 Fig- .10 — A vulvo- vaginal abscess of the giand ready for operation. 
 (GiUiam Text Book of Practical Gj^necology, F. A. Davis Co., 
 Copyright.) 
 
THE UTERUS 
 
 11 
 
 flat portion extends upwards into the pelvis. It consists 
 of a body and cervix. 
 
 The Body of the uterus contains a cavity, Fig. 11-3, 
 which serves as a receptacle for the product of conception. 
 The muscles of the uterus contract during labor and expel 
 the child through the vagina. At the upper aud outer 
 angle of the body the Fallopian tubes form a communica- 
 tion between the uterine and abdominal cavities. Fig. 11-7. 
 
 Fij^. 11 — 1, Body of the uterus, sometimes caUed fundus. 2, Cervix, 
 3, Cavity of uterus. 4. Caual in cervix. 5, External opening. 
 6, Internal opening-. 7, Opening into tlie tube. 8, Fallopian 
 tube. 9, Ovary. 10, Showing the part of the cervix that ex- 
 tends into the vagina (front view), 
 
 The uterus is also the organ of menstruation. It is much 
 larger in some women than in others, especially if a 
 woman has had children. In a virgin the average depth 
 of the cavity, including the canal in the cervix, is about 
 
12 
 
 WOMAN'S SECRETS 
 
 two inches. Sexual intercourse and childbirth increase 
 its depth until it measures from tAvo and three-fourths 
 to three inches. It is broadest on a level with the Fal- 
 lopian tubes and varies in measurement from one and 
 one-fourth to two inches. The average thickness is one 
 
 ■^Mjj 
 
 ^; -X . 
 
 ■ \ ' >i^^^P«.^^]^ 
 
 
 V^^ 
 
 ly 
 
 i^ 
 
 fc" 
 
 Fig-. 12 — Normal position of the uterus, 
 cology — Copyright F. A. Davis Co.) 
 
 (Gilliam Practical Gyne- 
 
 inch. "When the uterus is in its normal position the body 
 is bent forAvard resting on the bladder and the cervix 
 points toward the spine. Fig. 12. The uterus is not 
 fixed in its position : a full bladder Avill push it back ; a 
 full rectum will crowd it forward, but when these are 
 empty it goes back to its normal place. When a patient 
 
THE UTERUS 
 
 13 
 
 lies down ou the hack the uterus falls back more or less 
 tOAvarcl the rectum. There are four sub-dividecl ligaments, 
 
 Fig. 13 — Showing the ligaments of the uterus and how they are 
 attached to the bones of the pelvis. (Garrigues Diseases of 
 Women.) 
 
 the broad, round, utero- vesical, utero-sacral, that extend 
 from the uterus to the pelvic bones. Figs. 13 and 14. 
 
 The Broad Ligaments, Figs. 13 and 11, are two wide 
 folds of tissue, fan-like in appearance, situated between 
 the sides of the uterus and the pelvic wall. The inner 
 edge is attached to the sides of the uterus ; the outer and 
 
 2— 
 
14 
 
 WOMAN'S SECRETS 
 
 lower border, to the bones on the inside of the pelvis. 
 The Fallopian tube is attached to the upper border near 
 the uterus ; the outer part of the upper border being free, 
 Fig. 19-6. The broad ligaments divide the pelvic cavity 
 into a front and back part, the bladder being in the an- 
 
 Fig. 14 — Sliowing- the pelvic organs and their relation to each other 
 (front). This illustrates the round and broad ligaments. The 
 bladder is distended, and the ovaries are drawn up into view. 
 
 terior part. Fig. 14, and the rectum in the posterior part, 
 Fig. 13. 
 
 The Round Ligaments are fastened to the uterus just 
 below the Fallopian tube. They lie between the folds of 
 the broad ligament and pass upward and outward to a 
 ring called the inguinal canal (this is the point where 
 rupture often occurs). They pass through the opening 
 
THE UTERUS 
 
 15 
 
 and are finally lost in the large lip of the vulva, as shown 
 in Figs. 13 and 14. 
 
 The Utero-Vesical Ligaments are two small folds of 
 tissue that pass from the bladder to the uterus. They 
 are attached to the uterus on a level with the internal 
 opening, Fig. 13. 
 
 Fig. 15 — A, C, Shows hovv* the vaginal wall is attached to the cervix. 
 B, Is that part of the cervix that extends into the vagina, (side 
 
 view). 
 
 The Utero-Sacral ligaments are large folds of tissue 
 attached to the back part of the uterus on a level with the 
 internal opening, and from there they extend to the back 
 
16 WOMAN'S SECRETS 
 
 part of the pelvis, where they are attached to the bones. 
 They form with the upper vaginal wall an elastic band on 
 which the uterus is suspended. These ligaments keep the 
 uterus from coming down to and beyond the vaginal 
 outlet, Pig. 13. 
 
 The Cervix (often called the neck of the womb, Pig. 
 11-2), is the small part of the uterus Avhich extends from 
 the external to the internal opening, Pig. 11-5-6. It has 
 
 Fig-. 16 — Showing normal cervix. (Williams' Obstetrics.) 
 
 a canal in its center, Pig. 11-4. The vagina is attached 
 to the cervix on all sides at about its center, that is half 
 way between the external and internal openings. The 
 lower half extends into the vagina. Pig. 11-10 and Pig.^, 
 15-B, and feels like the small end of a pear with the stem' 
 removed. The normal cervix is hard, round and smooth, 
 Pig. 16. The frequent tearing of the cervix at childbirth, 
 Pig. 17, causes a great deal of reflex nervous trouble 
 and should be repaired by a surgical operation, Pig. 18. 
 The tears may occur in any direction, but are generally 
 
THE UTERUS 
 
 17 
 
 on the left side. Both sides may be torn and in that 
 case the tear is more severe on the left side. "Women 
 are very careless abont a laceration of the cervix, as no 
 symptoms are apparent at the time it takes place. All 
 
 Fig. 17 — Showing- cervix torn at childbirth. The uterus is puHed 
 down to Vciginal outlet to show cervix. (Ashton's Practice of 
 Gynecology.) 
 
 Fig. 18 — Showing how the cervix looks after operation. (Ashton's 
 practice of Gynecology.) 
 
 the evil effects come on very gradually; the health of the 
 patient becomes impaired. A full explanation of this 
 condition is given in Chapter X, ^^AVoman and Her Ail- 
 ments.'' 
 
 THE FALLOPIAN TUBES. 
 
 The Fallopian Tubes are long, round tubes extending 
 
18 
 
 WOMAN'S SECRETS 
 
 from the corner of the uterus, along the upper border 
 of the- broad ligament to the ovaries, Fig. 19. They are 
 hard next to the uterus, and about the size of an ordinary 
 slate pencil: the outer half of the tube is larger, about 
 the size of a lead pencil. The opening near the ovary 
 is of a funnel shape and is very uneven, has numerous 
 little frills extending in every direction, Fig. 19-3 and 
 Fig. 20. The tubes are from three to four inches long, 
 and are more or less curved. The canal in the center is 
 
 ^ ^7 
 
 Fig". 19 — Showing- back view of the left tube and ovary. 1, Uterus. 
 2, Fallopian tube. 3, Outer opening- of tube near ovary. 5, 
 Ovary. 6, Broad ligament. 7, Ovarian ligament. (Garrigues 
 Diseases of Women.) 
 
 very small and uneven, as the lining membrane is ar- 
 ranged in folds. Fig. 21. The tubes, at the monthly 
 period, have a movement similar to that of the intestines 
 
FALLOPIAN TUBES 
 
 19 
 
 and this assists in carrying the ova to the nterns. During 
 this activity the lining membrane of the tubes secretes a 
 fluid from the blood and as the fluid is forced to flow 
 into the uterus by the motion of the tubes, it carries with 
 it the impregnated ovum. If the fertilized ovum should 
 become lodged in the tubes by a diseased or abnormal 
 condition of the tube, as is often the case, pregnancy then 
 
 Fig-. 20 — Showing- the outer opening of the tube on the stretcli. No- 
 tice how tlie frills extend to the ovary. 
 
 takes place in the tube instead of the uterus. This is 
 more fully considered in Chapters TV and Y, Conception 
 and Tubal Pregnancy. 
 
 THE OVARIES. 
 
 The Ovaries are two oval shaped bodies that lie at 
 the sides of the uterus. You will notice they are below 
 
20 WOMAN'S SECRETS 
 
 the Fallopian tubes, Fig. 22. They are attached to the 
 back of the broad ligament in about its center. Generally 
 speaking, the ovaries hang free in the abdominal cavity, 
 fastened at each end and on one side. They are about 
 one and one-half inches long, one inch wide, and one-half 
 of an inch thick. The inner end is thinner than the outer 
 
 Fig". 21 — Showing' the right fallopian tube laid open, ab, Uterine 
 portion of tube, cd, Folds of the lining membrane, g, Round 
 ligament, h, Ovary. (Garrigues Diseases of Women.) 
 
 and is attached to the corner of the uterus by a cord-like 
 band, called the ovarian ligament. Fig. 22 LO. This 
 ligament is fastened to the side of the uterus just under 
 the tube, the outer end being broad is fastened to that 
 part of the broad ligament near the outer end of the 
 tube. The front surface of the ovary is almost flat and 
 quite dense in structure, being closely united with and 
 attached to the broad ligament. 
 
 The part that extends out backwards is even, smooth, 
 
THE OVARIES 
 
 21 
 
 velvety and of a pearl-grey color. This is the condition 
 in a young girl, late in life it becomes hard and irregular ; 
 depressions form on the surface, Fig. 23, and after the 
 menopause it shrinks until it is very small, and finally is 
 no larger than a pea. The ovaries are near the rectum 
 and are surrounded by coils of the small in- 
 testines. The ovaries have a very rich blood and 
 
 Fig. 22 — Right ovary and tube of 3'oung girl, age 16, seen from be- 
 hind. U T, Tube. O, Ovary. L O, Ovarian ligament. Note 
 how smooth surface of the ovary. (Garrigues Diseases of 
 Women.) 
 
 nerve supply. Their function is to develop and expel 
 the ova by the formation and rupture of Graafian follicles. 
 The body of the ovary is composed of two parts, the 
 inner and the outer. The outer part varies in thickness 
 according to the age of the woman. It becomes thinner 
 with advancing years. Fig. 24 illustrates the inner and 
 outer part ; the ovary in this case is cut lengthwise. Fig. 
 2a— . 
 
22 
 
 WOMAN'S SECRETS 
 
 25 gives another illustration of an ovary, shoAving the 
 outer part with a recent rupture of the follicles, and many 
 little cavities filled with a fluid ; in this fluid is a little 
 cell called the ovum. Fig. 27. These little cavities are 
 called Graafian follicles, Fig. 26 ; there is a little center in 
 the ovum that has been named the germinal vesicle. It 
 
 V'-'^ 
 
 LO 
 
 rr-y^ 
 
 Pig-. 23 — Tube and ovary of a girl 24 years old, seen from behind. 
 Showing tlie depressions (scar tissue) on the ovary caused by 
 rupture of the Graafian follicles. U T, Tube. L O, Ovarian 
 ligament, b, Where the follicles have ruptured. 
 
 contains a still smaller cell called the germinal spot, 
 Fig. 27. Sometimes two or three germinal vesicles are 
 in an ovum ; when this is the case twins or triplets are 
 often born. The germinal vesicle and germinal spot is 
 the part from the ovum which unites with the spermata- 
 zoon and causes conception to take place. The Graafian fol- 
 
THE OVARIES 
 
 23 
 
 licles are separated from each other by thin layers of 
 tissue. The follicles begin to develop from birth, but 
 do not reach the surface of the ovary until after puberty. 
 Nature has ordained that these Graafian follicles en- 
 large and undergo marked changes. They approach the 
 surface of the ovary while at the same time the ovum 
 goes through certain changes. This stage of develop- 
 ment goes on until the walls of the follicles on the sur- 
 
 Fig-. 24 — Showing- inner and outer part of ovary, c, e, d, Graafian 
 foHicles situated in outer part, d, Outer part, f, Inner part, 
 a. External covering. (Garrigues Diseases of Women.) 
 
 Fig. 25 — Showing ovary of a woman with a collapsed graafian fol- 
 licle fifteen days after menstruation. Also other small follicles 
 filled with fluid that contain ova. (Garrigues Diseases of 
 Women.) 
 
 face of the ovary become very thin; and then, as ovulation 
 causes the ovary to become congested, the increased blood 
 pressure causes the Graafian follicle to rupture, Fig. 28, 
 and the ovum escapes into the abdominal cavity, or it 
 passes into the tube so that conception may take place. 
 The number of ova produced in both ovaries is enormous, 
 —about 72,000 during the average menstrual life. 
 
 When the Graafian follicles rupture, the ovum and 
 the fluid which is in the follicle escape and the empty 
 
24 
 
 WOMAN'S SECRETS 
 
 follicle collapses, Fig. 25, and in a short time the cavity 
 is filled with blood. 
 
 The walls of the cavity begin to grow and fill up 
 the space, crowding the blood clot to the center. In 
 healthy young girls this is all absorbed and new tissue 
 similar in structure to that of the ovary is formed. 
 
 In older Avomen where the circulation in tlie ovary is 
 
 Fig. 26 — Cross section of outer part of ovary to show the graafian 
 foUicles. 5, IlUistrates follicles in their early stages. 6, 7, 8, 
 More advanced. 9, Almost matured follicle. 9', A follicle in 
 which no ova has developed. (Garrigues Diseases of Women.) 
 
 not good, this absorption does not take place until a 
 change occurs in the tissues which fill up the cavity. 
 When this change takes place absorption occurs the same 
 as in a young girl. 
 
 There is no Graafian follicle formed while the woman 
 is pregnant or after the menopause. The maturing and 
 rupturing of a Graafian follicle and the escape of the ova 
 
THE OVARIES 
 
 25 
 
 is called ovulation, and just what relation exists be- 
 tween menstruation and ovulation is not fuUv known. 
 Is ovulation a continuous process or does it occur at reg- 
 
 Fig-. 27 — Showing- three separate graafian follicles with ova in cen- 
 ter, with germinal vesicle and germinal spot. The circular lines 
 c in 2 represents the fluid. The clear spot in each the ova. The 
 small dark spot the germinal vesicle, and the little white speck 
 in the germinal vesicle in No. 1 the germinal spot. (Garrigues 
 Diseases of Women.) 
 
 ular periods, and if so, does it occur at the same time 
 that menstruation takes place? We can best answer 
 these questions, not by giving various theories that have 
 
 Fig. 28 — A, Showing a graafian follicle ready to rupture. B, 
 Graafian follicle developing. 
 
26 WOMAN'S SECRETS 
 
 been advanced by the medical profession, but by record- 
 ing the following facts: 
 
 1. Conception has occurred while child is nursing 
 — also after the change of life. 
 
 2. Young girls have become pregnant before they 
 menstruated. 
 
 3. Women have been known to menstruate only 
 when they are pregnant. 
 
 4. Conception may take place at any time during 
 the month, but it is most likely to occur just before or 
 after menstruation. 
 
CHAPTER TT. 
 
 PUBERTY. 
 
 Definition: — Puberty is the change from girlhood to 
 womanliood. A development of the sexual organs is 
 caused by the influence of the nerves connecting the 
 brain with the genital organs and the result is a won- 
 derful maturing of the system. The physical change is 
 gradual. The breasts become larger; the hips, broader; 
 the whole body takes on a rounded and shapely form 
 and is gracefully molded; hair grows on the external 
 genitals : the uterus enlarges ; menstruation begins ; the 
 attraction between the sexes becomes for the first time 
 apparent. 
 
 General Consideration. 
 Marked changes take place at puberty. The feeling 
 of sentimental life is present. New, beautiful pictures are 
 revealed to the mind, and have, under favorable cir- 
 cumstances, become a source of rich mental development. 
 In the words of Parvin, ''The girl passing into woman- 
 hood puts away childish things, turns from frivolous 
 amusements, from the toys and plays, or from the rude 
 sports in which she has found pleasure. She enters a 
 new life, has new thoughts, desires, and emotions ; hither- 
 to she has been living solely in and for the present, but 
 
28 WOMAN'S SECRETS 
 
 now the future with its lights and shadows, its hopes 
 and fears, makes a large part of her life. She is more 
 sensitive and reserved, manifests a modest dignity, giving 
 and expecting respect, her individuality becomes more 
 apparent, her sense of duty stronger and her ambition 
 greater. ' ' 
 
 A woman is not fully developed until she is twenty. 
 True, she can become pregnant as soon as she menstru- 
 ates, but that is no reason why she should marry and 
 become a mother. Garrigues says, ^^ Statistics show that 
 the women who marry under twenty years of age die 
 very young. It is acting against nature's laws that 
 women should become mothers before they are full- 
 grown. The uterus should attain its full size, the breasts 
 should be fit for nursing, the pelvis should be of sufficient 
 size to allow the passage of a full-grown child, the muscles 
 of the uterus should have the strength to propel it, and 
 the whole system should have full power of resistance 
 and endurance. It may, therefore, be stated that most 
 women should not marry before they are twenty years 
 old." 
 
 Early maternity makes pregnancy dangerous and 
 complicates labor. It also has injurious effects upon the 
 child which may be poorly developed and often dies 
 soon after birth. Mothers should teach their daughters 
 that puberty does not mean fitness for reproduction or 
 for married life. 
 
PUBERTY 29 
 
 Management. 
 
 Puberty is the most critical period in a girl's life. 
 She may ruin her health by not living properly at this 
 time. Mothers, do not be indifferent about your daugh- 
 ters. Ton know "what it means to become a mother. It 
 requires a vigorous and sound constitution, which cannot 
 be obtained without strict attention to the care of the 
 body. You should give your best efforts to your daughters 
 — 'Hhe beauty of the world." Give each one time to 
 develop, see that she has good wholesome food, plenty of 
 rest, and carefully regulate her exercise. Do not allo^^ 
 overstudy. AYlien the breasts begin to develop at puberty 
 one part of the gland may grow faster than the other 
 causing a tender and painful swelling which need not 
 be the soinx-e of any alarm. Hot applications will relieve 
 the pain and the swelling will disappear. Care for her 
 during the menstrual period as directed in the following 
 chapter. 
 
CHAPTER III. 
 
 MENSTRUATION. 
 
 Definition: — Menstruation, which comes at regular 
 intervals is characterized by a bloody discharge from 
 the uterus. It first takes place at puberty — which varies 
 with the individual. Menstruation is often referred to 
 by using the terms unwell, menses, menstrual flow, 
 monthly sickness, periods, etc. 
 
 Time. 
 
 The menstrual flow begins at pul)erty. In wai*m 
 climates it occurs earlier in life than in cold. The aver- 
 age age in the United States is fourt(MMi years. 
 
 Symptoms. 
 
 The symptoms are both geiuM-al and local. The 
 healthiest of women are more or less affected, although 
 the general and local symptoms may be so slight that men- 
 struation occurs without causing any inconvenience 
 whatever. In others again the symptoms are too severe 
 to be considered normal. 
 
 General Symptoms: — There is a general nervous con- 
 dition manifested by neuralgic pains, headaches, irri- 
 tability of the bladder, hot and cold flushes, and some- 
 times diarrhoea. In some women the breasts are swollen 
 
MENSTRUATION 
 
 31 
 
 and painful. Digestion and appetite are affected. There 
 is a desire to be languid and active exercise causes great 
 effort. The skin under the eyes may be dark in color 
 and in occasional cases pimples occur on the face, chest, 
 and back. 
 
 Fig-. 29 — Showing the uterus during menstruation. Notice the 
 swelling of the entire organ, especially the lining membrane. 
 A, Vagina. E, C, Mucous membrane lining the cavity of the 
 uterus. D, Muscular layer. E, Opening into tube. P, Internal 
 opening into uterus. B, Cavity of uterus. (Courty.) (Garrigues 
 Diseases of Women.) 
 
 Local Symptoms: — The beginning of the flow is pre- 
 ceded by a general aching through the pelvic organs, a 
 
32 WOMAN'S SECRETS 
 
 bearing down feeling, a sensation of weight in the region 
 of the ovaries, and a bloating of the abdomen. 
 
 Regularity. 
 
 In nearly all normal cases menstruation occurs 
 every twenty-eight days. Yet every woman is a law unto 
 herself and many vary from the normal and at the same 
 time have perfect health. When a woman is well her 
 case is considered normal whether she menstruates every 
 two, three, or six weeks. 
 
 Changes. 
 
 In the Uterus: — The uterus becomes enlarged i\ui\ the 
 lining membrane congested and filled with blood. Fig. 29. 
 This thin lining is destroyed, allowing the small blood 
 vessels to rupture. A flow which comes from the inside 
 of the uterus appears, — the lining membranes and blood 
 passing off together. The destructive process places the 
 womb in a condition for pregnancy. If pregnancy does 
 not occur, the repair process begins and a new lining is 
 formed in about four or five days, and in about fourteen 
 days the womb is again its normal size. 
 
 In the Tubes and Ovaries: — The tubes and ovaries 
 as well as the uterus become congested, and this conges- 
 tion helps to rupture the Graafian follicle, Fig. 30, and 
 Fig. 30 A. 
 
MENSTRUATION 
 
 33 
 
 Character of the Flow. 
 
 When the menstrual flow first begins it is mucous, 
 containing a little blood. When it is well established, it is 
 is pure venous blood, dark in color, alkaline in action, 
 
 Fig. 30 — Showing- the congested condition of the tube and ovary 
 during menstruation, f, FaUopian tube. 1, Broad ligament, o. 
 Ovary, i, End of tube covering ovary, r, r, Shows where old 
 follicles have ruptured. (Garrigues Diseases of Women.) 
 
 and does not coagulate. As the flow lessens it again be- 
 comes mucous in character. 
 
 Duration. 
 
 The menstrual flow lasts from three to five days. In 
 some cases, it may be less and in others more, and the 
 woman will not suft'er any inconvenience. The duration 
 is less in robust women. 
 
34 WOMAN'S SECRETS 
 
 Quantity. 
 
 The amount of blood lost at each period varies, but 
 the average is about six ounces. 
 
 Cause. 
 
 The cause of nienstrua1?ion is not thoroughly under- 
 stood. Authorities differ, but it i^ safe to surmise that 
 it is due to, and regulated by some nerve center located 
 in the central nervous system and stimulated into the 
 action by the growth and rupture of the Graafian follicle 
 in the ovaries. 
 
 Fig". 30 A — Longitudinal section of ovary of a woman on the first 
 day of menstruation, with one burst 'follicle opening on the 
 surface and other follicles in diffeerent stages of development. 
 (Leopold.) (Garrigues Diseases of Women.) 
 
 Menstrual Life. 
 
 The average menstrual life of a woman is thirty to 
 thirty-five years. The earlier in life puberty comes the 
 later will the change appear. Thus, a girl who begins 
 to menstruate at ten years of age will not have the change 
 until fifty years, while the one who does not menstruate 
 
MENSTRUATION 35 
 
 until sixteen years old will change between thirty-five 
 and forty. As a rule when a woman is pregnant or nurs- 
 ing a child, the menses are not discharged. The monthly 
 flow should reappear one month after the baby is weaned. 
 
 Care During Menstruation. 
 
 1. During the first day of menstruation keep quiet, 
 ■ — remain in bed or occupy a sofa. 
 
 2. Make your duties as light as possible during the 
 flow and avoid active exercise, as walking, dancing, or 
 the excitement of theatres or parties of any kind. School 
 girls should not overstudy during this time, — in fact 
 they should do a \^ery small amount of school work. 
 
 3. Keep out of all draughts and avoid exposure to 
 the inclemency of the weather. 
 
 4. Do not take cold baths or sponges, but keep the 
 body clean and the skin active by taking a daily sponge 
 bath of warm water and soap followed by a brisk rub- 
 bing with a bath towel. 
 
 5. Clean the external organs twice daily with warm 
 water and soap. 
 
 6. Change the napkins often enough so that they 
 will not become over saturated or foul. 
 
 7. Do not take a vaginal douche unless ordered 
 by your physician. 
 
 8. Avoid sexual intercourse. It will do serious mis- 
 chief. 
 
36 WOMAN'S SECRETS 
 
 9. Keep to a light and easily digested diet. Avoid 
 all highly seasoned foods; alcoholic stimulants are in- 
 jurious and should be avoided. 
 
 Kind of Napkins to Use. 
 
 Every woman should supply herself with sterilized 
 napkins. It is best to buy them from some good firm 
 like Seabury & Johnson, manufacturers of surgical dress- 
 ings. Your druggist can get them for you, or they can 
 be made at home out of plain sterile gauze and absorbent 
 cotton. The ordinary habit women have of using any 
 old piece of cloth should be discarded. None but sterile 
 napkins should be used. If cloths or towels are used 
 they should be sterilized. This can be done by wrapping 
 them in a piece of muslin and heating them in the oven 
 until the outer wrapper is quite brown. 
 
 General Remarks. 
 
 There are some peculiar conditions in regard to 
 menstruation to be considered in a general way. Cases 
 are reported where women menstruate when pregnant 
 and while nursing their children. Infants are also known 
 to menstruate. The writer had a case that menstruated 
 at one month of age and w^as regular for two years while 
 under observation. This is a rare occurrence, yet it is 
 not uncommon to hear of cases where menstruation has 
 occurred very early in childhood. This condition is 
 usually attended with development of the breasts, gen- 
 
MENSTRUATION 37 
 
 itals, and the sexual appetite often becomes manifest. 
 Cases are known Avliere pregnancy lias taken place. This 
 proves that the organs of generation are developed in 
 harmony with normal puberty. Any prematurely devel- 
 oped coiidition should be reported to your family phy- 
 sician and great care should be taken of such cases. The 
 moral character of the child should be kept at a high 
 standard and shielded from evil influences and she should 
 be carefully watched to prevent self-abuse. The diet, ex- 
 ercise, and hours devoted to study and sleep should be 
 carefully regulated. The use of cold sponge baths is often 
 beneficial in these cases between periods. When men- 
 struation occurs after fifteen years of age, it is said to be 
 delayed. Cases are reported in which the first menstru- 
 ation occurred at the age of thirty. Medical attention is 
 necessary to ascertain the cause of delayed menstruation 
 and restore the parts to a normal condition, thus pre- 
 venting constitutional diseases. 
 
 Women who are regular, but flow too much at the 
 time of menstruation, have some displacement or inflam- 
 matory condition of the pelvic organs. This excessive 
 flowing demands treatment. Neglect may make surgical 
 interference necessary. Various diseases cause this con- 
 dition, and the habits of the individual, as high living, 
 alcoholic stimulants, rich food, or a change of climate 
 mav result in excessive menstruation. In some cases the 
 
38 WOMAN'S SECRETS 
 
 cause is easily ascertained, in others, uncertainty may 
 prevent fit treatment and the case may have a fatal 
 termination. Continued loss of blood destroys the pa- 
 tient's health and renders her liable to death from a 
 trifling intercurrent disease. 
 
 There is another condition in which no menstruation 
 occurs. It may be suppressed by taking cold, or from 
 exposure, as in cases of young girls who take cold l)aths 
 and cold vaginal douches while menstruating. It may 
 be temporarily suppressed l)y gi'ief, nng(M*, feai*, sudden 
 joy or other emotions. 
 
 Another condition is known as vicarious menstrua- 
 tion. It is a bleeding occurring from any part of the 
 body at the regular menstrual period, but it does not 
 come from the uterus. It is very scanty, and is often 
 accompanied by a profuse leucorrhoea or diarrhoea. This 
 is a rare condition and is most frequently encount(n*ed 
 when the genital organs are iu)t properly developed. It 
 generally occurs from the nose, ear, lungs, and gums, 
 but it may occur from any part of the body, the stomach, 
 intestines, kidneys, bladder, etc. Often the local and 
 general symptoms of menstruation are present. Gener- 
 ally the parts subject to the hemorrhage are congested 
 and painful. The danger of vicarious menstruation is 
 dependent upon the location of the bleeding. Hem- 
 orrhages from the lungs and bowels are very serious, 
 
MENSTRUATION 39 
 
 but a graver condition arises when the bleeding takes 
 place in the brain. A physician should immediately be 
 consulted. 
 
 Menstruation may be accompanied by pains so se- 
 vere that it is considered abnormal. Prompt treatment 
 should be given as this symptom is due to a disease lo- 
 cated in the pelvic organs or. perhaps, of constitutional 
 origin, — a disease, whatever it may be, which will in time 
 undermine the health. 
 
 The location and character of the pain and its rela- 
 tion to the appearance and duration of the flow differ 
 in many instances and depend largely upon the cause 
 of the affection. The patient may suffer from sharp, 
 shooting sensations, or from the heavy, dragging feeling 
 commonly called ^'bearing-down pains.'' Rest, suitable 
 exercise, diet, care of the bowels, vaginal douche, and the 
 use of massage and electricity are a necessity. It is of 
 great importance to the patient that the treatment should 
 be conducted under the personal supervision of a com- 
 petent physician. 
 
CHAPTER IV. 
 CONCEPTION. 
 
 Definition: — Conception or impregnation is the union 
 of the ovum and spermatozoon. They are known as the 
 two generative elements, and wlien they unite the forma- 
 tion and growth of the child l)egins. 
 
 The Ovum is fully explained in Chapter 1, the 
 ovaries. 
 
 Fig-. 31 — Human spermatozoa, h, Head, c, Body, t, Tail. 
 
 The Spermatozoa, Fig. 31, are formed in the testicles 
 and ejaculated in the semen, a fluid which passes from 
 the man indulging in sexual intercourse. They consist 
 
CONCEPTION 41 
 
 of three portions, head, body and tail, and are shaped 
 somewhat like a tadpole. The head is somewhat flat 
 and pointed; the body, short; the tail, long and thin. By 
 the rapid vibration of their tails they can move about 
 one-twelfth of an inch per minute. They are only one 
 six-thousandth of an inch in diameter. As a rule spermat- 
 ozoa make their first appearance in boys of the age of 
 sixteen years. They are constantly reproduced in man 
 — in most cases until the end of life. In the adult one 
 drop of semen contains hundreds of spermatozoa, and 
 from sixty to one hundred drops are expelled from a 
 man at each normal intercourse. 
 
 When Conception Occurs. 
 
 Conception may occur at any time, but a woman is 
 more liable to become pregnant just before or after 
 menstruation. Experience teaches that the best chance 
 for impregnation to take place is offered just before the 
 flow. Both the ovum and spermatozoon may remain in 
 a normal and active state in the tubes for several days, 
 or even weeks. 
 
 How the Union of the Ovum and Spermatozoon Takes 
 
 Place. 
 
 Generally one spermatozoon will impregnate the ovum. 
 The germinal vesicle undergoes some changes, enlarges 
 in size, and moves to the edge of the ovum. The spermato- 
 
42 
 
 WOMAN'S SECRETS 
 
 zoon nearest the germinal vesicle penetrates the ovum, 
 Fig. 32. After entering the germinal vesicle and uniting 
 with the germinal spot the spermatozoon throws off its 
 tail, the head flattens and enlarges, the two elements fuse 
 together and form a new body. The manner in which 
 this union takes place is more fully ilhistrated in Fig. 
 33. A, B, and C represent an enlarged germinal vesicle; 
 the large white spot in the center of A and B, the germ- 
 inal spot, the Avhite s[)()t in the center of (\ th(^ union 
 
 W^^§i0^ 
 
 • y-'o\\xy-^.'' vj ; } '•:': \ y * '• ! • 
 
 '•:!*oV^"-fi*.>j|^'f i* ?;:'^^^^^ 
 
 Fig. 32 — Showing tlie approacli and fusion of tlie spermatozoon and 
 ovum. a. Spermatozoon. 1). Ovum with germinal vesicle near 
 the edge, b' b", Different stages of the ovum and spermatozoon. 
 (Garrigues Diseases of Women.) 
 
 of the spermatozoon and germinal spot. This union must 
 take place before conception can occur. 
 
 The further development of the ovum will be con- 
 sidered in Chapter VT. 
 
 The Place Where the Ovum and Spermatozoon Meet. 
 
 During copulation the semen is deposited in the vag- 
 
CONCEPTION 
 
 43 
 
 ina, but the question is, how does the spermatozoon get 
 into the uterus, and where does it meet the ovum? 
 
 The weight of authority teaches that the spermatozoa 
 enter the uterus by their own movements, as it has been 
 shown that they can move at a rapid rate. This theory 
 is proven by the fact that women have become pregnant 
 when connection was imperfect. 
 
 One authority claims that at the height of orgasm, 
 the uterus contracts, then expands quickly, draAving the 
 semen \xp into itself. 
 
 Another belief is, that the thick mucous found in 
 
 A B 
 
 AB 
 
 Fig. 33 — Showing- the uaiion of the germinal vesicle and spermato- 
 zoon, a, First stage of approach of the spermatozoon to the 
 germinal spot, b, Second stage, c. After union has occurred. 
 A, Germinal spot. B, Spermatozoon. 
 
 the cervix protrudes from the uterus during connection 
 and after being covered with spermatozoa is drawn back 
 into the uterus. The first theory mentioned is the ac- 
 cepted one, that is, the spermatozoa reach their destina- 
 tion by their own movements. 
 
44 WOMAN'S SECRETS 
 
 Since the ovum and spermatozoon move by their 
 own or external forces from place to place, impregna- 
 tion may take place in the tube, uterus or ovaries. The 
 ovum and spermatozoon generally meet in the tube, from 
 whence they are carried to the uterus where pregnancy 
 develops. Pregnancy, however, may develop in the tube 
 or in the ovary if spermatozoa are present when the fol- 
 licle ruptures. The ovum may be impregnated before it 
 escapes from the follicle. When pregnancy develops out- 
 side of the uterus, it is called extra uterine or tubal 
 pregnancy. See Tubal Pregnancy, Chapter V. 
 
 How the Ovum Gains Access to the Tube. 
 
 After the Graafian follicle ruptures and the ovum 
 is free, it is interesting to note the manner in which it 
 enters the tube. Many authors have advanced as many 
 theories, but the one considered as best, with the most 
 satisfactory proof, is the one we mention. Between 
 the pelvic organs is a certain amount of fluid, only enough 
 to keep the surface well moistened. This fluid is kept in 
 motion to a greater or less extent by the free end of the 
 tube (the fimbriated part). When the ovum escapes it 
 is caught by the wave-like movement of the fluid and 
 carried into one of the tubes, whence it goes to the uterus. 
 An ovum from one side may enter the tube on the other 
 side. Many ova which escape from the follicles do not 
 enter either tube but perish in the abdominal cavity. 
 
CHAPTER V. 
 
 TUBAL PREGNANCY. 
 
 Definition: — By tubal pregnancy we mean that preg- 
 nancy develops in the tube and not in the uterus; it is 
 often called Extra-Uterine, or Ectopic pregnancy. The 
 ovum becomes permanently arrested in the tube and 
 tubal pregnancy occurs. 
 
 CAUSE. 
 
 Tubal pregnancy occurs in about one out of five 
 hundred cases, more frequently after a long period of 
 
 Fig-. 34 — Showing location of tubal pregnancy. 3 and 4 most com- 
 mon location. 2 next in frequency. 1 and 5 rarely occur. (Gil- 
 liam's Practical Gynecology', copyright F. A. Davis Company.) 
 3- 
 
46 WOMAN'S SECRETS 
 
 sterility, or immediately after confinement. It may occur 
 at the same time that normal pregnancy occurs. No 
 period in child-bearing life is exempt. Any obstruction 
 in the canal would be a cause for tubal pregnancy. It 
 may be the resnlt of inner inflammation or of a pres- 
 sure of tumors on the outside. 
 
 LOCATION. 
 
 When tubal pregnancy occurs in the tube it may be 
 located anywhere in the canal, but most frequently as 
 illustrated in Fig. 34. 
 
 SYMPTOMS. 
 
 When the foetus begins to develop in the tube it 
 generally gives rise to early symptoms of pregnancy. 
 The shock of a free internal hemmorhage caused by rup- 
 ture of the tube is at limes the first symptom noticed. 
 Usually the lining membrane of the uterus is cast off in 
 the form of shreds. The great loss of blood may cause a 
 woman to believe that she has had a miscarriage. At 
 times only a slight amount of blood of a dirty brown color 
 is passed irregularly. A woman who has a tubal 
 pregnancy complains of pains in the abdomen and low 
 down in one side; the pains come and go. These patients 
 generally give a history of sterility. If the pregnancy 
 goes on past the third month, milk will appear in the 
 breast. 
 
TUBAL PREGNANCY 
 
 47 
 
 CHANGES THAT TAKE PLACE IN THE UTERUS 
 DURING TUBAL PREGNANCY. 
 
 During the development of the foetus in the tube the 
 uterus becomes enlarged and the cervix is very soft. If 
 the developing child dies, the uterus does not enlarge 
 any more, but Avhen tubal pregnancy continues to full 
 term or near that time, the uterus will enlarge to the 
 size of a normal four months pregnancy. 
 
 HOW TUBAL PREGNANCY ENDS. 
 
 Tubal pregnancy will terminate in one of four ways : 
 1. Tubal abortion. 
 
 Fig-. 35 — Showing- tubal abortion of the product of conception into 
 the abdominal cavity through the end of the tube. (Ashton's 
 Practice of Gynecology.) 
 
 2. Rupture of the tube. 
 
 3. Death of the child. 
 
48 
 
 WOMAN'S SECRETS 
 
 4. Development of child to full term. 
 
 1. Tubal Abortion, see Pig. 35. If tubal abortion 
 occurs it will do so before the second month. It is gen- 
 erally accompanied by severe hemorrhage. If only a 
 partial expulsion takes place the bleeding is profuse and 
 the patient quickly dies as a result of internal hem- 
 orrhage. 
 
 2. Rupture of the Tube. Tubal pregnancy usually 
 ends in the rupture of the tube in one of three direc- 
 tions, Fig. 36. It may be toward the abdominal cavity, 
 into the folds of the broad ligament or into the uterus. 
 The abdominal rupture is the most common form and 
 
 Fig. 36 — Showing the three directions in whicli a rupture of a tubal 
 pregnancy may take place. (Ashton's Practice of Gynecology.) 
 
 the patient usually dies within a few hours unless the 
 bleeding is immediately controlled by a surgical opera- 
 
TUBAL PREGNANCY 49 
 
 tion. If the blood is confined in the folds of the broad 
 ligaments the child will probably die. In time the blood 
 and product of conception may be absorbed; if not, the 
 mass becomes infected and forms an abscess. If the walls 
 of the broad ligament are not strong enough to hold 
 the blood it ruptures into the abdominal cavity with the 
 same results as if the tube ruptured directly. 
 
 If the tube ruptures into the uterus it occurs very 
 slowly. If the placenta remains attached, the child may 
 be developed and be delivered at full term. If the rup- 
 ture of the tube into uterus occurs rapidly, as it some- 
 times does, then the product of conception is often ex- 
 pelled through the uterus and a surgical operation is re- 
 quired. 
 
 3. If the foetus dies during the first or second week 
 it may remain in the tube and not cause any trouble for 
 some time. In time the mass will cause irritation so severe 
 that an operation will be necessary. 
 
 4. Very rare cases are recorded where the child 
 developed in the tube to full term, then died. Other cases 
 are known where the child lived to the end of normal 
 pregnancy and the mother and child were saved by 
 operation. 
 
CHAPTER VI. 
 
 HOW THE CHILD DEVELOPS IN THE UTERUS. 
 
 It is best not to enter into the details of embryology 
 to any great extent, as it is quite complicated and diffi- 
 cult to understand, but there are a few essential points of 
 interest with which a woman should be familiar if she 
 wishes to comprehend the subjects of pregnancy and 
 abortions. 
 
 A B C 
 
 Figs. 37, 38, 39 — Showing- tlie first tliree stages of development of 
 the foetus. a — Fig. 37, first stage; b — Fig. 3S, second stage; 
 c — Fig. 39, third stage. 
 
 THE MEMBRANES. 
 
 Soon after the germinal vesicle of the ovum and the 
 spermatzoon meet, there begins a process of cell division, 
 each cell dividing and forming two cells. The process 
 continues until the original ovum becomes converted into 
 a mass of cells. Fig. 37. After the cells are formed in the 
 ovum a fluid gathers among them forcing them to the 
 
HOW THE CHILD DEVELOPS 51 
 
 side, thus, we have a smgie layer of cells surrounding a 
 cavity filled with fluid, Fig. 38. The next change is a 
 collection of cells at one point on the inner surface of the 
 single layer of cells forming the walls, of the vesicle just 
 mentioned. These changes go on during the first few 
 hours of pregnancy while the fertilized ovum is coming 
 down the tube. Several new membranes are formed in- 
 side the vesicle by the group of cells as illustrated in Fig. 
 
 Fig. 40 — Human ovum of eight daj's showing- how the villi com- 
 pletely cover the outer surface of the ovum. (Williams' Ob- 
 stetrics.) 
 
 39. The outside membrane unites with the single layer of 
 cells, Fig. 38-B, and forms the outside membrane of the 
 ovum. It is called the chorion. It is smooth at first, but 
 it becomes sliaggy by growth of processes called villi. The 
 villi at first cover the whole outside surface of the ovum, 
 
52 WOMAN'S SECRETS 
 
 Fig. 40, Later they are found only at the place where 
 the ovum is attached to the uterus, this being the point 
 where the placenta (afterbirth) is formed. Another 
 membrane begins to grow from these cells and its edges 
 unite, forming a sac. The outer surface is in contact with 
 and slightly joined to the inner surface of the chorion. 
 This membrane is called amnion. The sac or cavity be- 
 comes filled with liquid (liquor amnii) known as the bag 
 of water. The fluid increases in amount as pregnancy ad- 
 vances. The average amount is from one to four pints. 
 It takes up the urine which is occasionally voided by the 
 child and protects it against injury. It affords some 
 nourishment and by allowing free movement of the child 
 in the uterus, favors the development of the limbs. It 
 acts as a bag to dilate the cervix during labor nnd inoisteiis 
 the walls of the vagina to make labor easy. 
 
 Other membranes with their many subdivisions, fold- 
 ings, and peculiar growths are formed from this same 
 group of cells and are used directly in the formation of 
 the child. It will suffice to say that one membrane forms 
 the spinal cord, brain, organs of special sense and the 
 skin ; another forms the blood vessels, bone, and muscles ; 
 another, the lungs and the alimentary canal, and another 
 is used to line the serous cavities of the body. 
 
 While all these changes which result in the rapid 
 growth of the child are going on, the part of the ovum 
 
HOW THE CHILD DEVELOPS 53 
 
 next the uterine wall where the group of cells are at- 
 tached has been developing with equal rapidity and unites 
 with the decidua and the cord to form the afterbirth. 
 
 We have been considering the membrane which forms 
 the child, but before we take up the study of the placenta, 
 
 Fetal surface of the placenta. 
 
 Fig. 41 — Showing the side of the placenta next to the child. This 
 is the side that is covered with the amnion and chorion. (Gar- 
 rigues' Text-book of Obstetrics.) 
 
 let US describe more fully the changes which take place in 
 the lining membrane of the uterus to prepare it for the 
 reception of the ovum. 
 3a— 
 
54 WOMAN'S SECRETS 
 
 The Decidua is the lining membrane of the uterus 
 after it has undergone certain changes caused by preg- 
 nancy to fit it for the attachment and nutrition of the 
 ovum. It is called decidua because it is cast off after 
 labor. It is a new growth composed of several layers and 
 
 Maternal surface of the placenta. 
 
 Fig. 42 — Showing- the side of the placenta next to the viterus. This 
 is the decidual part. (Garrigues' Text-book of Obstetrics.) 
 
 is fastened to, in fact is, a part of the uterus for the time 
 being. Its surface has deep furrows and depressions to 
 which the villi find access. 
 
 At the termination of labor all of the decidua, except 
 that part assisting in the formation of the placenta, has 
 
HOW THE CHILD DEVELOPS 55 
 
 become very thiu because of the immense size of the 
 uterus. 
 
 The placenta is formed at the spot where the ovum 
 is attached to the inside of the- uterus. The membranes 
 and the decidua that form the placenta at full term are 
 about one inch in thickness in the center and somewhat 
 thinner around the edges. It is circular in shape, and 
 
 Fig. 43 — Showing- the formation of the cord. a-a — is the liquor 
 amnion, tlie dark ojbect is the foetus, tlie membrane extending 
 from V to foetus is the cord, tlie leaf-like objects are the villi. 
 (Garrigues' Text-book of Obstetrics.) 
 
 from six to eight inches in diameter. The side next to the 
 child is smooth and covered with amnion. Fig. 41. Under 
 the thin and loosely attached amnion are seen the blood 
 vessels. The cord is attached to this side in the center. 
 The side next to the uterus. Fig. 42, is the decidua. and 
 under it are the villi of the chorion. It is very rough 
 
56 
 
 WOMAN'S SECRETS 
 
 and has many deep furrows leaving small round islands 
 between the depressions. The placenta is generally lo- 
 cated high up on the back part of the inside of the uterus. 
 The lower edge extends about four inches above the inter- 
 nal opening into the uterus. 
 
 THE CORD. 
 
 The umbilical cord, Fig. 43, extends from the abdo- 
 men of the child to the center of the afterbirth (Figs. 
 
 ^.0 
 
 Fig. 44 — Showing a cross section of the umbilical cord, c — outer 
 covering, v.u. — umbilical veins, a.u. — umbilical artery. (Gar- 
 rigues' Text-book of Obstetrics.) 
 
 41 and 42 show cord attached to the afterbirth.) It is 
 about twenty inches long and the average size is about 
 that of the index finger, larger or smaller as the case may 
 be. The cord is composed of tAvo arteries and one vein 
 
HOW THE CHILD DEVELOPS 
 
 57 
 
 Fig. 44, a gelatine substance and an outside covering 
 formed by the amnion. It has no nerves. 
 
 NUTRITION. 
 
 The ovum is nourished before and after conception 
 by absorbing its nutrition from any tissue with which it 
 
 Fig. 45 — Human ovum with child of four weeks, natural size. (Gar- 
 rigues' Text-book of Obstetrics.) 
 
 comes in contact. Then the villi which absorb fluid like 
 the roots of a plant are formed on the outside of the 
 ovum, Fig. 49. As pregnancy advances the villi and the 
 chorion with the blood vessels grow into the decidua and 
 
58 
 
 WOMAN'S SECRETS 
 
 nourishment is derived through them from the mother's 
 blood. Finally when the placenta and cord are formed, 
 all nutrition passes through them, yet there is no change 
 in the way in which it passes, that is, there is no direct 
 connection between the blood of the mother and child. All 
 the nutrition which the child receives must be taken by 
 absorption. It will be interesting to note that gases such 
 as chloroform and ether, fluids, and various drugs, can be 
 transferred to the child through the placenta by the villi 
 of the chorion, and the motlKM- may att'ect her unbornv 
 
 Fig. 46 — Human ovum and child at the end of the second month; 
 actual size. Wood's Museum, Bellevue Hospital. (Garrigues' 
 Text-book of Obstetrics.) 
 
 child by taking medicine. Only medicines prescribed by 
 a physician should be taken by a pregnant woman. 
 
 The child also receives some nourishment from the 
 liquor amnii — that it swallows large quantities of this 
 
HOW THE CHILD DEVELOPS 59 
 
 fluid is proved by the fact that scales of baby skin and 
 hair from the head is found in the first movement of the 
 bowels. The element of nutrition in the liquor amnii is in 
 the form of albumen water. 
 
 FIRST MONTH. 
 
 The membranes grow and the child develops very 
 rapidly during the first month. Fig. 45. The parts which 
 
 Fig. 47 — Human foetus, 3 months old, natural size. (Williams' Ob- 
 stetrics.) 
 
 later form the eyes, ears, and nose make their appear- 
 ance. At the end of the first month the embryo measures 
 from three to four-tenths of an inch in length. 
 
60 WOMAN'S SECRETS 
 
 SECOND MONTH. 
 
 In this month the head enlarges and develops out of 
 proportion to the rest of the child ; the part which forms 
 the nose, mouth, and ears is not so prominent. The arms 
 and legs are more developed and at the end of this month 
 the embyro begins to look like a human being. The 
 membranes which form the external genitals make their 
 appearance when the child has attained the length of an 
 inch. Fig. 49 represents a six weeks pregnant uterus 
 with elongation of the cervix showing the extent to which 
 the uterine cavity is occupied by the ovum. 
 
 Fig-. 48 — Child of eight weeks, natural size. 
 
 THIRD MONTH. 
 
 The product of conception is about as large as a 
 goose egg at the end of the third month, and from three 
 to four inches long. The bones are becoming well formed, 
 the fingers and toes are supplied with nails and the ex- 
 ternal genitals are becoming well defined. Fig. 48. 
 
HOW THE CHILD DEVELOPS 
 FOURTH MONTH. 
 
 61 
 
 By the end of the fourth month the child is from 
 five to six inches long and weighs about one-fourth of a 
 pound, and the external genitals reveal the sex. 
 
 Fig. 49 — O.E. — external opening; O.I. — internal opening; D.V., D.S. 
 and D.R. — decidua; Emb. — foetus; P.I. — afterbirth. Note the 
 length of the cervix and the extent to which the cavity of the 
 uterus is occupied by the ovum. (Williams' Obstetrics.) 
 
 FIFTH MONTH. 
 
 The length of the child at the end of this month 
 
62 WOMAN'S SECRETS 
 
 varies from eight to twelve inches and it weighs from 
 one-half to three-quarters of a ponnd. The skin is not so 
 transparent, down covers the Ixxly, jind a smnll nmoimt of 
 hair l)egins to a])penr on tlu^ head. 
 
 SIXTH MONTH. 
 
 The child weighs al)out one and a half pounds at the 
 end of the sixth month and is from fourteen to (Mgliteen 
 inches long. Tlic sl<in hccomcs wriid<lc<l and fat is d(^- 
 posited under it, and the liead is still eompai'atively (juite 
 large. A cliild ])orn duiiiiu lliis month will atl(Miipt to 
 breathe and move its limbs, but always dies wilhin a short 
 time. 
 
 SEVENTH MONTH. 
 
 The child does not grow vrry much in h*n^lii duiinu 
 the seventh month, Init almost doubles in wcMght. The 
 skin is thin and red. If it is l)orn at this tinu^ it will cry 
 in a weak voice, move its lind)s (piit(* freely, but as a 
 rule it cannot live. It is generally l)elieved that a child 
 born at the end of the seventh month has a better chance 
 of living than if it is born at the end of the eighth month. 
 This is not true, as the more developed the child tlie 
 greater are its chances for life. 
 
 EIGHTH MONTH. 
 
 During this month the child gains both in length and 
 weight. Its weight is about four pounds and it attains the 
 
HOW THE CHILD DEVELOPS 63 
 
 length of twenty inches. The surface of the skin is still 
 red and wrinkled and the child looks like an old person. 
 If it is born at the end of this month it has only a fair 
 chance to live, with the most expert care. 
 
 NINTH MONTH. 
 
 At the end of this month the child is on an average 
 twenty-one inches long and weighs five pounds. The 
 body becomes full and round and the face has lost its 
 wrinkles. Children born at this age generally live if they 
 have the proper care. 
 
 TENTH MONTH. 
 
 Full term is reached at the end of this month. The 
 child has fully developed and presents the appearance 
 which is considered in detail in ^^ HELPFUL HINTS FOR 
 MOTHERS/' Chapter XXII. 
 
 THE DURATION OF PREGNANCY. 
 
 The average duration of pregnancy from the begin- 
 ning of the last menstrual flow to the onset of labor is two 
 hundred and eighty days, or ten lunar months, yet many 
 children are born shortly before or after the expiration 
 of that period. 
 
 SEX OF THE UNBORN CHILD. 
 
 Prospective mothers are deeply anxious to know of 
 any means by which the sex of the unborn child can be 
 
64 WOMAN'S SECRETS 
 
 determined. It is amusing to hear the various theories 
 advanced about the signs of sex. Many of these are too 
 absurd to be repeated. Even the most learned medical 
 scientists contradict each other in their ideas upon the 
 subject. 
 
 Some claim that the age of parents has its influence, 
 that is, a young wife whose husband is several years older 
 than she is apt to give birth to boys. Again, some think 
 that sex is determined by the stronger parent; others be- 
 lieve that when conception occurs just before menstrua- 
 tion it favors the birth of girls, if after menstruation, the 
 birth of boys. 
 
 It is a fact that more boys tlian girls ai*e born. The 
 ratio is about one hundred and six to one hundred, and 
 the proportion is increased in women who have had sev- 
 eral children. If a woman gives birth to her first child 
 after she is thirty years old the proportion increases to 
 one hundred and twenty to one hundred. At the fiftieth 
 year it is one hundred and forty to one hundred. 
 
 At one time it wns generally believed that sex was not 
 established until some time after conception occurs, but 
 recent investigation shows that sex is determined in the 
 germ cells, the moment cell division begins in the ovum. 
 It is a well known fact that when tw^ins are derived from 
 the same ovum they are the same sex, but when each is 
 
HOW THE CHILD DEVELOPS 65 
 
 derived from a different ovum the sex may or may not 
 be the same. However, we cannot make any positive 
 statements. No woman when she is pregnant can tell 
 whether her child will be a boy or a girl. One thing only 
 we can say positively, — the weight of authority tells us 
 that the determination of sex is a function of the ovum. 
 
CHAPTER VII. 
 
 STERILITY. 
 
 Definition: — A woman who never l)econies a mother 
 is said to be sterile. She may becoiiie pregnant but be 
 unable to carry the child to full term. Until recent years 
 it was believed that the woman was the sole cause of ster- 
 ility, but investigation proves that the man may be at 
 fault as well. Therefore, the sterility of the man nuist be 
 considered in all cases of marriage in which there are 
 no children born. 
 
 Certain nornuil conditions nuist exist in a woman 
 before she can become pregnant and bear children. The 
 uterus and its lining membrane (endometrium) must be 
 in a healthy condition. There must be normal secretions 
 in the vagina and a capacity for copulation. An ovum 
 must be present. 
 
 Sterility is considered normal in women before pub- 
 erty, while nursing a child, and after the menopause. 
 Sometimes a woman ceases child-bearing nuuiy years be- 
 fore she has the change of life. 
 
 CAUSE OF STERILITY IN WOMAN. 
 
 Sterility in woman may be produced by congenital 
 
STERILITY 67 
 
 or acquired causes. In the first case the female organs 
 are not properly developed from birth. In the second, the 
 organs are injured by inflammation due to various dis- 
 eases. 
 
 IN CASES OF CONGENITAL STERILITY WE MAY 
 
 HAVE 
 
 1. An absence of the vagina or the growth of a sep- 
 tum across the vagina near the uterus, thus preventing 
 normal copulation. 
 
 2. A ver}^ short vagina which will not hold the 
 semen. 
 
 3. Absence or non-development of the uterus. 
 
 ■i. A cervical canal closed at its opening into the 
 uterus. 
 
 5. Absence or non-development of the Fallopian 
 tubes. A very trivial tubal lesion may be responsible for 
 sterility. 
 
 6. Absence or non-development of the ovaries. 
 
 THE ACQUIRED CAUSES OF STERILITY ARE 
 
 1. Severe inflammation of the vaginal wall. 
 
 2. A vaginal discharge that is acid in reaction. 
 
 3. Inflammation or any diseased condition of the 
 inside of the uterus. This is the most common cause of 
 sterility. 
 
68 WOMAN'S SECRETS 
 
 4. Inflammation of the Fallopian tubes. Conception 
 is frequently prevented by a surprisingly slight abnormal 
 condition of the tubes. 
 
 5. Displaced ovaries or ones bound down by adhe- 
 sions. Any ovarian inflammation is apt to prevent the 
 rupture of the Graafian follicles and is usually attended 
 with sterility. 
 
 General Causes. In some cases the pelvic organs 
 may be normal, yet a Avoman cannot become pregnant on 
 account of great obesity. Those Avho accumulate fat rap- 
 idly before or just after marriage seldom have children, 
 although some fleshy w^omen give birth to one or two. 
 Women who are anaemic (lack blood), or who have kid- 
 ney trouble, consumption, cancer, and syphilis are not 
 likely to conceive. It is said women who masturbate are 
 often sterile. 
 
 CAUSE OF STERILITY IN MAN. 
 
 The wife is not always at fault. The husband whose 
 semen is without spermatozoa is sterile. He may infect 
 his wife with gonorrhoea or syphilis — specific diseases 
 which may lead to inflammation of the uterus and tubes. 
 If she is sterile he is indirectly responsible. The husband 
 may not be able to properly perform the act of copulation 
 or he may have a scanty secretion of seminal fluid. When 
 we consider these causes of sterility in man Ave know him 
 
STERILITY 69 
 
 to be responsible for about one in four of all childless 
 marriages. 
 
 REMARKS. 
 
 To correct this condition the husband must be thor- 
 oughly examined as well as the wife, as the treatment is 
 based upon the removal of any local or general cause 
 which may be present. In many cases, when the cause is 
 known and removed, the physician wlio treats the case 
 cannot promise with certainty that pregnancy will fol- 
 low. Again pregnancy may occur in cases under the 
 most extraordinary circumstances at an early age, and 
 many cases are reported where women who married never 
 conceived until late in life. As a rule women meiistruate 
 but once after marriage before they become pregnant, yet 
 a perfectly healthy woman may be married several months 
 before conception occurs ; so we cannot speak positively 
 one way or the other. The patient should decide if she 
 wishes to be operated upon, or take treatments to relieve 
 the abnormal or diseased condition. Many times a dilata- 
 tion and a currettage of the uterus, a simple operation 
 devoid of all danger, will act like magic. The good results 
 more than compensate for the temporary inconvenience. 
 To operate upon the tubes is a more serious matter as the 
 abdomen must be opened. It lies with the patient to de- 
 cide whether she wishes to take the risk in order to be- 
 come a mother. 
 
CHAPTER VIll. 
 
 ABORTION, MISCARRIAGE, AND PREMATURE 
 
 BIRTH. 
 
 Definition: — Abortion is defined as the casting off of 
 the product of conception before the end of the fourth 
 month of pregnancy,, Between the end of tlie fourth and 
 seventh month it is called a miscarriage. After that time 
 it is best termed premature birth as tliere is a possibility 
 of the child living if it is born after the seventli month. 
 
 CAUSES. 
 
 Anything that. will cause the death of the foetus, a 
 degeneration of the membranes of conception, or an im- 
 paired blood supply to the decidua may produce abortion. 
 The following conditions will cause expulsion of the 
 foetus : 
 
 1. Diseases of the heart, kidneys, liver and lungs, 
 due to imperfect blood. 
 
 2. The use of poisonous drugs, illuminating gas, or 
 similar substances. 
 
 3. Changes in the placenta due to syphilis. 
 
 4. Diseased condition of the decidua due perhaps to 
 
ABORTION AND MISCARRIAGE 71 
 
 a previous inflammation of the lining membrane of the 
 uterus. 
 
 5. Inflammation of the tubes and ovaries. 
 
 6. Displacement of the uterus. 
 
 HOW ABORTION OCCURS. 
 
 After the foetus dies, the blood supply of the decidua 
 , changes, the tissues which form the product of concep- 
 tion degenerate, the ovum becomes detached from the 
 uterine wall, and the mass acts as a foreign body. Uterine 
 Fig. 50. After that time, as a rule, the foetus is ex- 
 pelled, — both membranes and decidua. 
 
 The spontaneous expulsion of the ovum may occur 
 at any period of pregnancy. When it occurs before the 
 afterbirth forms, the entire ovum may come away intact, 
 Fig. 50. After that time, as a rule, the foetus is ex- 
 pelled flrst and the placenta and membranes follow after 
 a longer or shorter period. Sometimes only the foetus and 
 sac containing it (the chorion with villi attached) comes 
 away, leaving the decidua in the uterus, Fig. 51. 
 
 In many instances the process of abortion occurs very 
 slowly, and in this case the blood becomes clotted be- 
 tween the ovum and the decidua. The blood clots sur- 
 round the ovum and it is passed off in this form resem- 
 bling a blood clot, in whose center is a small cavity filled 
 with fluid and lined with a smooth membrane (the am- 
 
72 WOMAN'S SECRETS 
 
 nion). The umbilical cord hangs from one point in the 
 sac while the other end is attached to a degenerated foetns. 
 
 SYMPTOMS. 
 
 Abortion is usually preceded by certain symptoms. 
 Those which need special consideration arc chills, hem- 
 orrhages, pain, and vomiting. 
 
 1. Chills. Just before a woman lins nn a])ortion she 
 genei'Mlly lias one or more chills. 
 
 Fig-. 50 — Showing- an early abortion. Tho decidna and foetus de- 
 generated. (Williams' Obstetrics.) 
 
 2. Hemorrhage. The loss of blood, no matter how 
 slight, during the first months of pregnancy should be 
 regarded with suspicion. It generally indicates a diseased 
 condition of the endometrium or that the placenta is not 
 attached in its normal position. When the hemorrhage is 
 due to the increase of blood in the decidua it is a dirty 
 brown color; when it comes from the placenta it is more 
 profuse and a bright red. The bleeding may continue for 
 
ABORTION AND MISCARRIAGE 
 
 73 
 
 days or weeks before abortion takes place, or the ovum 
 
 may be expelled immediately after the hemorrhage begins. 
 
 3. Pain. After the process of abortion has gone on 
 
 Fig. 51 — A pregnant uterus and ovum of five weeks, u — uterine cav- 
 ity; g, s, and r — the decidua; ch — chorion with the villi; e — foetus 
 in a close fitting- amnion; m — muscular wall of the uterus. 
 (Garrigues' Text-book of Obstetrics.) 
 
 for some time, pains begin. They are of a bearing-down 
 nature and increase in frequency and severity as the uter- 
 
74 WOMAN'S SECRETS 
 
 ine contractions increase in force. 
 
 4. Vomiting. Vomiting is not always present but it 
 occurs in a great many cases. 
 
 THREATENED ABORTION. 
 
 When a pregnant woman begins to flow and have 
 pains in the back and lower abdomen, she will probably 
 have an abortion. 
 
 IMMINENT ABORTION. 
 
 When the flow is very profuse abortion is imminent, 
 but even then it may sul)side and pregnancy go on to 
 full term without interruption. 
 
 INEVITABLE ABORTION. 
 
 When the membrane ruptures and the liquor amnii 
 escapes it is certain that abortion will take place and 
 cannot be prevented. 
 
 COMPLETE ABORTION. 
 
 In this case the ovum is expelled intact (Pig. 50), 
 from the uterus and no membrane retained; it is then 
 called complete. 
 
 INCOMPLETE ABORTION. 
 
 When the membranes rupture and the liquor amnii 
 escapes and the foetus alone is expelled, leaving the pla- 
 centa and membranes in the uterus, it is known as incom- 
 
ABOKTIOX AND MISCARRIAGE 75 
 
 plete abortion. In such cases the hemorrhage continues 
 until the uterus expels the retained placenta. When this 
 occurs both hemorrhage and pain stop and the uterus 
 contracts and in a short time resumes its natural size. 
 
 DANGERS OF ABORTION. 
 
 ■ The two great immediate dangers are hemorrhage and 
 blood poisoning. Women are in the habit of considering 
 an abortion or miscarriage a very trivial affair, while 
 in reality it is very serious and demands the best medical 
 attention. Women often suffer for their foolhardiness 
 and neglect. When one is pregnant and has any symptoms 
 of an abortion she should go to bed and call her physician 
 at once to avoid complications and if possible prevent the 
 expulsion. The same care and the same scientific treat- 
 ment are needed in this class of cases as in a confinement. 
 Xo civilized woman would think of giving birth to a child 
 one day and getting up the next, but itis not uncommon 
 for a woman to have an incomplete abortion and be up 
 going about her daily duties. The retained decidua and 
 afterbirth decompose, and blood poison is the result. Here 
 let us say a word about Criminal Abortion. You will 
 understand, we trust, that this applies to a class of cases 
 for which we have no better term. The practice of crim- 
 inal abortion by charlatans is common in this country 
 and is condemned by the medical profession. Women 
 
76 WOMAN'S SECRETS 
 
 often perform an abortion on themselves by introducing 
 something into the uterus. They generally use a stiff 
 catheter, lead pencil, slate pencil, or elm tents, — in fact 
 almost anything that will open the uterus. They often 
 take drugs that some would-be friend recommends, or of 
 which they have read, in order to cause the expulsion of 
 the ovum. It is estimated that in the United States over 
 one million children are killed in the uterus every year. 
 Many women do not regard abortion as a great crime and 
 think little of its danger to health and life. Figs. 52 and 
 53 show well the result and we wish every woman could be 
 taught to realize the seriousness of such practice. Stop 
 it, should be their Avatchword. 
 
 THE CONSEQUENCE OF ABORTION. 
 
 It is an unfortunate fact that a vast iiuiiil)cr of women 
 are invalids as a result of abortions. If they have l)loo(l 
 poison and recover, the pelvic organs are generally left in 
 a weakened condition. Abscesses often form back of the 
 uterus, or about the tubes or ovaries. Putrid infection in 
 the uterus from retained membranes may cause lockjaw, — • 
 the poison being transferred to the nerve center. Some- 
 times the mind becomes involved and chronic melan- 
 cholia is the result, but the attack is not so severe as when 
 it follows labor at full term. 
 
 The various joints of the body may become in- 
 
ABOETIOX AND illSCARRIAGE 
 
 77 
 
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 -««'^ o 
 
 CO© 
 
 *^ = ^ 
 
 X o ® 
 
 • oV 
 
 ^ arf 
 o ^ 
 
 ^ o a 
 
 o oO 
 
 ^ V. 
 
 |S 
 
 .5 P^ 
 
 m r-> o 
 
 ^ ;^ rf 
 02 ;^ '■'' 
 
 •^ a o 
 H ^ > 
 
 Sal 
 
 be 
 
 5 
 
78 
 
 WOMAN'S SECRETS 
 
 V 
 
 y 
 
 "^jN^r^ 
 
ABORTION AND MISCARRIAGE 79 
 
 flamed and pus may form. We were once called in con- 
 sultation to see a patient who gave a history of a secret 
 abortion. The ankle of the left leg was greatly enlarged, 
 very red and extremely painful. The abortion had caused 
 pus to form in the joint. 
 
 Do not use the toilet during an abortion as the gas 
 from the sewer has been known to cause blood poison. 
 
 In dismissing this subject we desire to say that if the 
 reader is ever so unfortunate as to have an abortion, we 
 trust she will immediately consult a physician. The best 
 of care is necessary, for even under the most scientific 
 management the results are frequently disastrous. 
 
CHAPTER IX. 
 
 THE MENOPAUSE 
 
 or 
 CHANGE OF LIFE. 
 
 Definition: — The iiienof)ause is the period in a wom- 
 an's life Avhen menstruation ceases, and, as a rule, she 
 does not become pregnant. It comes on and ends grad- 
 ually, often lasting two or three years. It causes consid- 
 erable mental disturl)ance; at the same time both general 
 and local physical changes occur. 
 
 TIME. 
 
 The menopause generally occurs between the age of 
 forty-five and fifty; menstruation l)ecomes irregular, less 
 in amount, and finally ceases altogether. As a rule, Avom- 
 en who begin to menstruate early in life have the meno- 
 pause later than those who begin to menstruate after six- 
 teen years of age. Climate and certain other conditions 
 have their influence. We make the following classifica- 
 tions : 
 
 1. THE MENOPAUSE OCCURS EARLY IN LIFE. 
 (a) in cold climates, (b) in fat Avomen, (c) in hard-work- 
 ing women, (d) in sterile women or those who have never 
 
CHANGE OF LIFE 81 
 
 had any children, (e) in women who have had children 
 rapidly early in life, (f) from sudden fear or grief, (g) 
 when the tubes and ovaries have been removed, (h) in 
 cases where the patient has had any severe illness. 
 
 2. THE MENOPAUSE OCCURS LATE IN LIFE. 
 
 (a) in hot climates, (b) in slender women, (c) in the rich 
 and indolent classes, (d) when the tubes, ovaries, and 
 uterus are inflamed or diseased. In the latter case the 
 flow may continue indefinitely. Heredity plays an im- 
 portant part. The daughter will generally have the 
 change at the same age as the mother. 
 
 CHANGES AND CONDITIONS THAT OCCUR DURING 
 THE MENOPAUSE. 
 
 The uterus and ovaries become small and hard and 
 usually the breasts decrease in size. If they become larger 
 it is due to an increase of fat. Cancer often appears on 
 the breast and uterus during the menopause. The ner- 
 vous system receives a severe shock, and it is not uncom- 
 mon for women to go insane. There are frequent rushes 
 of blood to the head which causes a feeling of great heat, 
 headache, dizziness, a red face, and restless sleep accom- 
 panied by dreams. 
 
 If there is any chronic disease affecting the stomach, 
 bowels, liver, or kidneys they are much worse during the 
 
82 WOMAN'S SECRETS 
 
 menopause. Women while passing through this stage of 
 life perspire very much and the skin often has an itch- 
 ing, burning or smarting sensation of the most distressing 
 nature. Temper is subject to radical changes, the sexual 
 appetite is increased and leucorrhoea is often present. 
 The heart often feels weak or its action may be greatly 
 increased. In this case patients faint easily and have 
 difficulty in breathing. 
 
 Any of the above symptoms or a combination of them 
 appear in a woman who is having the change, and last for 
 a week at a time. The attacks (except cancer and insan- 
 ity) begin and disai)pear gradually. 
 
 As a rule the whole appearance of the woman changes 
 at the menopause. Most women increase in size and 
 weight and become very stout, others may U)se flesh. 
 
 GENERAL REMARKS. 
 
 While the menopause is a normal condition and nuist 
 occur in every woman's life, it is not free from danger of 
 an alarming nature. Women who previously enjoyeil 
 fairly good health may have a complete mental and 
 physical break-down. No woman can afiford to enter this 
 critical period in life in a diseased or weakened condi- 
 tion. She should have pleasant surroundings and occupy 
 the mind with useful work. The pelvic organs should be 
 in a normal condition, any tears in the cervix should be 
 
CHANGE OF LIFE 83 
 
 repaired so as to prevent cancer. If there is any disease 
 of the uterus, tubes or ovaries it should be cured before the 
 menopause begins ; this will greatly reduce the nervous 
 strain. 
 
 After a woman has prepared for such a crisis she 
 should keep her system in the very best condition by 
 paying special attention to hygiene. We suggest the fol- 
 lowing regulations : 
 
 1. Keep the bowels and kidneys active with aper- 
 ient waters or a little bicarbonate of soda in a half glass 
 of water three times a day. Often an enema of plain 
 water with a little glycerine added is beneficial for the 
 bowels. 
 
 2. A cold sponge bath followed by rubbing the skin 
 with a Turkish towel is pleasant and invigorating and 
 should be taken in the morning, but not when men- 
 struating. 
 
 3. Congestion of the head is often relieved by tak- 
 ing hot foot baths at night. 
 
 4. A warm (not hot) bath two or three times a week 
 will keep the skin and nerves in a good condition. 
 
 5. The diet for women who become fleshy and 
 stout should be composed of fish, meat, green vegetables, 
 and fruit. Avoid cereals, sugar, milk, and beer. Do not 
 drink too much water. 
 
 6. The diet for women who lose flesh must consist of 
 
84 WOMAN'S SECRETS 
 
 fat producing food, such as chocolate, milk in large quan- 
 ties if they can digest it, plenty of cereals, and any kind 
 of meat. Either fleshy or thin women should use weak 
 tea or coffee. 
 
 7. During the menopause a sudden stopping of the 
 flow is, as a rule, very dangerous. Great care must be 
 taken while the woman is menstruating that the skin does 
 not become chilled, nor must she take a cold bath or wash 
 the genitals with cold water, or get the feet wet. 
 
 8. Avoid all excitement in any form. Too frequent 
 sexual intercourse will cause the pelvic organs to be- 
 come congested. 
 
CHAPTER X. 
 WOMAN AND HER AILMENTS. 
 
 If we wish to educate the yoiiug women, mothers and 
 wives, in such a manner that they may protect their 
 health and happiness, we can do nothing better than go 
 into detail about the sources of those female diseases 
 which a woman can prevent. A woman has no control 
 over Hereditary and Congenital influences. It has been 
 stated in a previous chapter that the condition existing in 
 the mother may develop in the daughter at the same age 
 and in the same way. and affect her as it did the mother. 
 It will be noticed that an inherited tendency to consump- 
 tion or cancer is a predisposing cause of the diseases. If a 
 woman should have smallpox, measles, scarlet fever, or 
 any disease while pregnant, it would interfere with the 
 development of the child to such an extent that the pelvic 
 organs would be arrested in their normal growth, making 
 the daughter susceptible to certain fundamental and or- 
 ganic disorders. 
 
 A woman who is physically weak will generally have 
 painful menstruation^ displacement of the uterus, and 
 leucorrhoeal discharges; again, congenital influences, 
 4a— 
 
86 
 
 WOMAN'S SECRETS 
 
 when the pelvic organs are not properly formed, will re- 
 sult in various diseased conditions, thus : the uterus may 
 be double, two-horned, one-horned, or may develop but 
 very little after birth. A uterus of this order is called an 
 infantile uterus, Figs. 54-55-56-57-58-59-60. There may 
 
 Fig-. 54 — Showing a double uterus, two perfect bodies with only 
 one tube and ovary for each uterus. (Ashton's Practice of 
 Gynecology.) 
 
 be some abnormal condition of the tubes, one or both may 
 be defective. Cases are recorded where one or both tubes 
 were absent. The tube may be double. Fig. 59, or it may 
 have two openings. Fig. 60. 
 
 The ovaries as well as the uterus and tubes may not 
 be properly developed and it is not uncommon to find this 
 condition of the ovaries when there is a one-horned uterus 
 or an absent Fallopian tube. 
 
WOMAN'S AILMENTS 
 
 87 
 
 Fig". 55 — Showing- a two horned uterus. Notice in this illustration 
 there is only one cervix, while there are two in Fig. 54. (Ash- 
 ton's Practice of Gynecology.) 
 
 When we note the relation of the nterus, tubes, and 
 ovaries with the abdominal cavity and its contents, and 
 
 Fig. 56 — Showing a cross section of a two horned uterus as illus- 
 trated in Fig. 55. (Ashton's Practice of Gynecology.) 
 
88 WOMAN'S SECRETS 
 
 the fact that there is a direct external communication 
 with this cavity through the Fallopian tubes, it gives us 
 the key to the important factors in the causes of dis- 
 eases peculiar to woman. For example, gonorrhoeal, 
 
 Fig. 57 — Showing a sectional view of a one horned uterus. (Ash- 
 ton's Practice of Gynecology.) 
 
 Fig. 58 — Showing an infantile uterus that did not develop. (Ashton's 
 Practice of Gynecology.) 
 
 tubercular, and other forms of infection may be deposited 
 upon the vulva, in the vagina, or in the uterus and pass 
 
WOMAN'S AILMENTS 
 
 89 
 
 directly through the Fallopian tube into the general ab- 
 dominal cavity, causing an inflammatory condition which 
 
 Fi^. 59 — Showing- accessory fallopian tubes. (Ashton's Practice of 
 Gynecology.) 
 
 Fig. 60 — Showing an abnormal condition of a fallopian tube with 
 two openings. (Ashton's Practice of Gynecology.) 
 
 produces many chronic subjective symptoms and tlie de- 
 struction of the functional activity of the pelvic organs. 
 
90 WOMAN'S SECRETS 
 
 "We will now consider those causes that produce 
 female diseases over which the woman has more or les^ 
 control and which she can prevent if she takes the proper 
 precautions. 
 
 EDUCATION. 
 
 Mothers are too careless in regard to the manner in 
 which they allow their daughters to be educated. Our 
 modern system of education has a decidedly injurious ef- 
 fect upon the general and sexual strength of women. The 
 close application to study in early youth concentrates the 
 nervous energy in the brain and deprives the uterus and 
 ovaries of their share at the time wlien these organs are 
 undergoing an enormous development and preparing for 
 the functions of womanhood and motherhood. Too little 
 attention is paid to the physical development of girls just 
 before, during, and after puberty. The general health is 
 often impaired in the effort of parents to give their young 
 girls a polished education. They pay no attention to reg- 
 ulating the amount or character of mental work to suit 
 the health and temperament of the individual. A young 
 girl's nature demands physical and mental rest. Goodell, 
 in his splendid work, says, ^'In one word, it is to the pres- 
 ent cramming and high-pressure system of education, to- 
 gether with its environment, that I attribute much of the 
 menstrual derangements, the sterility, the absence of 
 normal sexual conditions, the often lingering convales- 
 
WOMAN'S AILMENTS 91 
 
 cence from the first labor, which is frequently the only one, 
 and the very common inability to suckle their offspring. 
 From this cause come most of my unmarried patients with 
 nervous prostration and various uterine and ovarian symp- 
 toms, — unmarried often because they are not Avell enough 
 to wed. If woman is to be thus stunted and deformed 
 to meet the ambitious intellectual demands of the day, if 
 her health must be sacrified upon the altar of her educa- 
 tion, the time may come when, to renew the wornout stock 
 of this Republic, it will be needful for our young men to 
 make matrimonial excursions to lands where educational 
 theories are unknown." 
 
 Everything should be done to develop the physical 
 being of every girl if she is desired to enjoy good health. 
 We request all mothers not to overdevelop the mental 
 faculties of their daughters at the expense of proper 
 physical development. In other words give them time to 
 grow into true and perfect types of womanhood. 
 
 SOCIAL CONDITIONS. 
 
 Social gatherings beginning at a time when the girl 
 should be at rest in bed have a very bad effect upon the 
 nervous system, causing at times derangements of and 
 great suffering in the pelvic organs that are not felt by 
 those leading a more natural life. There is a marked 
 difference between working women and women of the 
 
92 WOMAN ^S SECRETS 
 
 higher grade of society as to the frequency of various pel- 
 vic diseases. The lower class has not the skillful medical 
 attention during childbirth, and many cases of blood 
 poison and torn conditions of the vaginal outlet and 
 uterus are left unrepaired, while those living in the higher 
 walks are able to afford the best attention. Yet their 
 nervous condition has lowered their vitality to such an 
 extent that they would be invalids if they received the 
 same treatment as the poorer classes. 
 
 We often notice the poor women, who suffer with 
 some pelvic trouble to which th<^y pay but very little 
 attention raising large families. 
 
 We are often asked, as physicians, why women are 
 so delicate nowadays. We answer this question by say- 
 ing, ^^The women of today have not the perfect physique 
 that they had years ago and this is due to the mode of 
 living and the improper care that the young girls are 
 receiving at this time." 
 
 OCCUPATION. 
 
 This has its influence in causing pelvic diseases. 
 Women who work in stores, factories, restaurants, and 
 laundries, and are compelled to stand on the feet for hours 
 at a time often suffer from uterine displacements. Espe- 
 cially is this true if they have given birth to one or two 
 children. Women who run sewing machines are subject 
 
WOMAN ^S AILMENTS 93 
 
 to pelvic congestion, and the various occupations in which 
 lifting is required cause a backward displacement and a 
 prolapsed condition of the uterus. AYomen should guard 
 against certain occupations which have a tendency to 
 produce any of these conditions. 
 
 CIVILIZATION. 
 
 In women of the savage tribes the muscles have a 
 great power of resistance. In these races the endurance 
 of men and women is equal. As we ascend in the scale of 
 intelligence and civilization, changing the outdoor life 
 for the artificial indoor one, we find that among highly 
 civilized peoples men have much more strength than 
 women. Among savage races women receive very little 
 
 injury to the soft parts of the reproductive organs dur- 
 ing labor. In other words, they are seldom torn, as the 
 children have small heads and consequently injuries and 
 sickness because of confinement seldom, if ever, occur. 
 
 CARE DURING MENSTRUATION. 
 
 Care during menstruation has been quite thoroughly 
 discussed in a previous chapter, but it might be well to 
 note that the civilized woman, unlike her savage sister, 
 does not realize the importance of physical and mental 
 rest during the menstrual period. Many pelvic disorders 
 are directly traceable to neglect, carelessness and impru- 
 
94 WOMAN'S SECRETS 
 
 dence upon her part. The average American woman sub- 
 jects herself to all kinds of exposures during her periods. 
 Often if menstruation interferes with her plans, she will 
 check it with a cold vaginal douche or by taking a cold 
 bath. Again, young girls, just beginning to menstruate 
 are not kept at home during the flow, but are sent to 
 school as usual and kept hard at work. This alone gives 
 rise to many kinds of trouble. Many women become in- 
 valids by simply neglecting common sense precautions, 
 because they will pay no attention to, — sometimes abso- 
 lutely ignoring the demands of nature. 
 
 CONSTIPATION. 
 
 Constipation is the cause of many diseases peculiar 
 to women. Constipated bowels iiit(M"f(M'(^ with circulation 
 and produce congestion of the uterus and its appendages, 
 — perhaps displacements Avhich result in various uterine 
 troubles. Absorption of the decomposed material in the 
 bowels produces impure blood and destroys the general 
 vitality of the system, manifesting itself by aches, neural- 
 gic pains, and general indisposition. It often interferes 
 with the heart's action and proper breathing. Irregular- 
 ity in emptying the bladder has bad effects w^hich are not, 
 however, as serious as those of constipation. This subject 
 is discussed in Chapter XVIII and should be carefully 
 studied. 
 
WOMAN'S AILMENTS 95 
 
 EXERCISE. 
 
 Women often neglect to keep the muscular system arid 
 the organs of the body in a normal condition. Young 
 women possibly take more exercise in the way of outdoor 
 sports than older women, and the latter possibly suffer 
 more from irregular menstruation, neuralgic pains, and 
 loss of appetite than the younger class. The importance of 
 gymnasium work and outdoor exercise for every woman 
 cannot be overestimated. Every case should be governed 
 according to the requirements of the individual, as over- 
 exercise or overwork is also apt to be followed by evil 
 results. It hardly seems necessary to repeat the fact that 
 women should not exercise during menstruation; neither 
 should they dance or engage in either outdoor or indoor 
 sports when nature demands mental and bodily rest. 
 ]\Iany women are so situated that they cannot take out- 
 door exercise, but we have arranged for a series of indoor 
 exercises that every woman should follow according 
 to directions given in Chapter XXL 
 
 FOOD. 
 
 The health of the entire body depends largely upon 
 the character of the food and the manner in which it is 
 assimilated. Errors in the selection of diet are among 
 the frequent causes of female diseases. A perfect develop- 
 ment and normal condition of the pelvic organs cannot 
 
96 WOMAN'S SECRETS 
 
 occur when a patient has poor blood or an exhausted ner- 
 vous system. Women suffer from many sorts of pelvic 
 troubles, chronic dyspepsia and constipation as a result 
 of improper dieting. We have devoted one chapter to 
 this subject and trust you will find it worthy of your 
 consideration. 
 
 The wine drinking and overfeeding of women in our 
 large cities, frequent visits to cafes after theatres and the 
 indulgences of fashionable society have a marked intiu- 
 ence upon the diseases of the female pelvis. Late dinners 
 composed of drinks and indigestible foods have no place 
 in the category of that which goes to make up a perfect 
 body, and consequently women who indulge in them, 
 sooner or later suffer from an undermined constitution 
 and pelvic diseases. 
 
 DRESS. 
 
 When we consider the manner in which women dress, 
 we find that the body is not properly protected from cold 
 and dampness, that there is more or less constriction of 
 the waist and at the same time traction upon the abdom- 
 inal muscles. The surface of the skin becomes chilled, 
 driving the blood to the internal parts and the pelvic 
 organs become congested. Especially is this true during 
 menstruation when the i:)arts are naturally gorged with 
 blood. Thin shoes with high heels, under-garments made 
 so as to leave the neck, chest, arms, and lower extremities 
 
WOMAN'S AILMENTS 
 
 97 
 
 unprotected, all produce serious results. Women who 
 frequently wear light low-necked evening gowns suffer 
 from pelvic disorders through exposure and sudden 
 changes of temperature. The constriction of the abdom- 
 inal muscles by tight lacing interferes with breathing, the 
 
 Fig-. 61 — Showing- the results of a neglected tear at the opening 
 of the vagina during childbirth. The rectum and bladder walls 
 are protruding. (Gilliam's Practical Gynecology, copyright F. 
 A, Davis Company.) 
 
 circulation of the liver, the position of the heart, the up 
 and down movements of the abdomen and pelvic organs 
 which are so essential to the normal action of the bowels 
 and the circulation of the pelvis. Naturally the normal 
 functions of all the organs are destroyed, as the uterus 
 
98 
 
 WOMAN'S SECRETS 
 
 and its appendages are crowded out of their normal posi- 
 tion. While tight lacing is detrimental to the health of 
 every woman, we do not condemn the wearing of corsets 
 if they are properly made and applied, except by women 
 whose occupation requires them to bend forward when in 
 
 Fig 62 — Showing how the parts look after they have been repaired 
 by surgical operation. A neglected case. (Ashton's Practice of 
 Gynecology.) 
 
 a sitting position. Under such circumstances the corsets 
 exert an injurious pressure upon the abdomen and crowd 
 down the pelvic organs. 
 
WOMAN'S AILMENTS 
 
 99 
 
 CHILDBIRTH. 
 
 Injuries resulting from labor are frequently the cause 
 of pelvic diseases. Such tears destroy the strength of the 
 support of the uterus and allow everything to sag down in 
 
 / /// 
 
 Fig. 63 — Showing- a recent tear extending up the vagina. Note the 
 method of repair with the stitches in place. (Williams' Ob- 
 stetrics.) 
 
 the vagina until the bladder and rectum often protrude, 
 as illustrated in Fig. 61. Such lacerations prevent the 
 proper contraction of the uterus and result in inflamma- 
 
100 
 
 WOMAN'S SECRETS 
 
 tion and displacements, and cases of long standing are 
 often the cause of various diseased conditions. Any in- 
 jury should be properly repaired as shown in Fig. 62. 
 Tears of the cervix should be repaired as illustrated in 
 
 Pig-. 64 — Same as Fig. 63 with the stitches tied, 
 stetrics.) 
 
 (Williams' Ob- 
 
 Chapter I. The time to repair tears is when they occur. 
 Pigs. 63 and 64 illustrate how easily this is accomplished 
 if performed at the time of the confinement. 
 
WOMAN'S AILMENTS 
 
 101 
 
 Neglect in giving the proper treatment during and 
 after confinement often results in displacement of the 
 uterus to such an extent that the patient becomes an 
 invalid. "When the uterus is displaced backwards, Fig. 
 65, standing or walking is very difficult, sometimes impos- 
 
 Fig. 65 — Showing- a backward displacement of the uterus. Notice 
 how the body of uterus is pressing against the rectum. (Gil- 
 liam's Text-book of Practical Gynecology, copyright F. A. Da- 
 vis Company.) 
 
 sible. There is backache, headache, and often a burning 
 sensation at the nape of the neck. The bowels become 
 constipated, which is due to pressure upon the rectum. 
 The bladder ofttimes is irritated and the patient has but 
 
102 
 
 WOMAN'S SECRETS 
 
 little control of the urine. Profuse leucorrhoea (whites) 
 arises. Menstruation is profuse and painful. The cure 
 for this condition as a rule is an operation. Sometimes 
 treatments, uterine supports, and the knee-chest position. 
 Pig. 66, will give temporary relief. If your physician 
 
 Fig. 66 — Showing the correct attitude for taking tlie knee-chest posi- 
 tion. (Ashton's Practice of Gynecology.) 
 
 orders you to take this exercise, follow these directions: 
 Incline the body forward until the breasts rest upon the 
 table or bed; turn the head to one side; let the arms ex- 
 tend over the head or at the sides. An important point 
 is to have the thighs straight up and down. The best 
 time to take this exercise is just before retiring. You 
 should stay in this position five to fifteen minutes and im- 
 mediately lie down. Do not stand on the feet again. This 
 
WOMAN'S AILMENTS 103 
 
 position takes all the weight off the uterus by allowing it 
 to drop away from the back, and for the time being often 
 gives great relief. 
 
 When the uterus is tipped forward and rests upon the 
 bladder. Fig. 67, it causes painful menstruation, sterility, 
 and nervousness. The menstrual flow is generally clotty 
 and is followed by a profuse leucorrhoea. Surgical inter- 
 
 Fig-. 67 — Showing- a forward displacement of the uterus. Note In 
 this case how the uterus is resting on the bladder. (Gilliam's 
 Text-book of Practical Gynecology, copyright F. A. Davis Com- 
 pany.) 
 
 ference is sometimes necessary to eft'ect a cure. 
 
 The longer displacements of the uterus remain Avith- 
 out treatments, the more difficult they are to cure. The 
 effect upon the general health is very severe. The rem- 
 
104 WOMAN'S SECRETS 
 
 edy must often be a major surgical operation. Fig. 68 
 illustrates a case of seven years' duration. When we oper- 
 ated upon the patient we found the uterus grown fast to 
 the back. It had become infected and the inflammation 
 extended to the tubes and ovaries. An abscess formed, — 
 one of the kind commonly called a ''pus tube." It con- 
 tinually discharged through the uterus and it so under- 
 mined the patient's health that she was a semi-invalid. 
 The only way to effect a euro was a surgical operation. 
 This case is mentioned only to i-omind the reader how im- 
 portant it is to keep the pelvic organs in a normal con- 
 dition. 
 
 In conclusion, we might mention that marriage, abor- 
 tions, and venereal diseases all have their influence, and 
 each subject is fnlly considered under an appropriate 
 chapter. 
 
WOMAN'S AILMENTS 
 
 105 
 
 Fig. 68 — Showing- tlie exact size of a fallopian tube and ovary at 
 the time of operation. Both were filled with pus. (The author's 
 case.) 
 
CHAPTER XL 
 
 SYPHILIS. 
 
 Definition. — Syphilis is known as a l)lood disease, 
 characterized by a sore (chancre is the medical term), 
 which is the first appearance of the syphilitic poison. 
 The poison of syphilis enters the system and canses the 
 chancre to form, and every case of syphilis contracted 
 after birth must have a chancre which shows the place 
 where the poison entei-ed the system, it is a chronic 
 disease. The poison entei's the 1)1()()(1, canses a copper- 
 colored rash to form on the body, and as the disease ad- 
 vances there is some throat trouble. The rash and sore 
 throat occur after the chancre ti'ets well. 
 
 HOW A WOMAN BECOMES INFECTED WITH 
 SYPHILIS. 
 
 Two conditions are necessary in oi'der to become 
 inoculated with syphilis. First, there must be an 
 abrasion (a break in the skin) at the point where the 
 infection takes place. Second, the secretions containing 
 the syphilitic poison must come in contact with the 
 abrasion of the skin. These secretions are found in the 
 discharge from a chancre in another person, mucous 
 patches in the mouth, or from a syphilitic sore on any 
 
SYPHILIS 107 
 
 part of the body. A healthy woman may have connection 
 with a man that has a chancre on his penis and she will 
 not get syphilis if there are no broken places in the skin 
 on the vulva or in the vagina. She may become pregnant 
 and the child will be infected from the syphilitic father 
 and as it grows in the nterns the poison passes from the 
 
 Fig'. 69 — Showing' a sypliilitic sore on the lip. 
 
 child to the mother through the afterbirth. In this case 
 neither the mother or the child has a chancre. 
 
 A woman may be infected by personal contact by 
 having connection or kissing. A wet nurse may be in- 
 fected by a syphilitic child. Any article, as a spoon, 
 drinking cup, dental or surgical instruments, undercloth- 
 ing, or a bathing suit that has been infected with poison 
 from syphilitic lesions of other persons will convey 
 syphilis. 
 
108 WOMAN'S SECKETS 
 
 LOCATION AND CHARACTER OF THE CHANCRE. 
 
 The sore or chancre is always located at the point 
 of infection. Chancres appear most frequently on the 
 genitals, but may be on the lips, tongue, breast, or 
 fingers. Figs. 69 and 70. The chancre of syphilis is 
 very hard and heals very slowly without leaving a scar. 
 It is not painful. It develops in about three weeks after 
 infection takes i)]ace. There is only one sore; if more. 
 
 Fig. 70 — Showing a syphilitic sore on the cervix. 
 
 they all begin at the same time. The discharge is very 
 scanty. 
 
 COURSE OF THE DISEASE. 
 
 In about three or four weeks after the poison enters 
 the broken place on the skin a chancre appears at that 
 point, infection slowly works its way into the blood and 
 it becomes saturated with the poison. When this occurs 
 a rash appears on the skin. Fig. 71, and remains from 
 four to six weeks, then clears up, leaving copper-colored 
 
SYPHILIS 
 
 1C9 
 
 spots. No symptoms are noticed until the poison Avhich 
 is in the system increases and causes a relapse to occur, 
 the blood being again saturated with the- infection. These 
 relapses occur from four to six months during the course 
 
 Fig. 71 — Showing a syphiUtic rash on the body three weeks after 
 the appearance of the chancre. 
 
 of the disease. When cases are under treatment relapses 
 do not usually occur after the first year. After a period 
 of many years with no appearance of the disease, new 
 symptoms may again develop. As a rule this late appear- 
 ance of the disease is very serious and causes great de- 
 struction of tissue. 
 5— 
 
110 WOMAN'S SECRETS 
 
 A regular course of syphilis is divided into three 
 stages : 
 
 First Stage. This includes the time from the mo- 
 ment the poison enters the system until the rash appears 
 and there is a general outbreak of the symptoms (nuicous 
 patches, loss of hair, etc.). This period lasts from three 
 to four months. The chancre is formed at the end of 
 three weeks after the infection occurs nnd is generally 
 cured by the time the general symptoms occur. During 
 the first stage there is nothing to indicate that a i^ersoii 
 has syphilis. 
 
 Second Stage. This stage begins when the rash and 
 sore throat and mucous patches appear and the hair also 
 comes out. At times these conditions improve, then they 
 gee Avorse and so on during the first year of the disease. 
 
 Third Stage. Tnmors due to syphilis form at this 
 stage; they may occur in any organ or part of th(^ body 
 and they come on after the second stage has subsided 
 for some time. However, the third stage may never occur 
 if the patient has had treatment from the beginning of 
 the disease. 
 
 HOW SYPHILIS ACTS UPON THE SYSTEM DURING 
 SECOND STAGE. 
 
 In the second stage syphilis causes — 
 
 1. Fever; more in weak patients than strong ones. 
 
SYPHILIS 111 
 
 2. More or less pain in the regions of the arms, legs, 
 and ribs, at night. 
 
 3. Disease of the liver, which may give rise to yellow 
 jaundice. 
 
 4. Slight inflammation of the kidneys. 
 
 5. Sore patches on the mucous membrane of the 
 mouth, entrance to the vagina, etc. 
 
 6. Falling of the hair to a greater or less degree. 
 
 7. Rash on the skin, which varies in different indi- 
 viduals. It is not so marked in women as men. 
 
 SPECIAL OONSroERATIONS. 
 
 If a person who has consumption, or one who is 
 weakened from any disease, contracts syphilis, he will 
 have a rapid breakdown of tissue and the case will 
 terminate fatally in a very short time. Death may result 
 from destruction of some vital organ. 
 
 If a case of syphilis is not treated and the patient is 
 robust and can stand the drain on the system for two 
 years, such a patient may not die, but will be in a weak 
 condition and possibly an invalid for life. 
 
 If a person has syphilis once he will not contract it 
 again. The attack makes the patient immune as in all 
 other infectious diseases. 
 
 If the father and mother both have syphilis, the 
 child will nearly always suffer from a serious type of 
 
112 WOMAN'S SECRETS 
 
 the disease. Death is the usual result. If the mother 
 has syphilis and the father is healthy, the child is almost 
 sure to be infected. If the father has syphilis and the 
 mother is healthy, the child may escape infection. 
 
 If a healthy mother becomes pregnant with a syphi- 
 litic child (infected by the father) it will affect the 
 mother in one of three ways : 
 
 1. The mother does not l)ecome infected, nor is she 
 immune from syphilis; she may take it from nursing her 
 child or from other sources. 
 
 2. The poison may pass throujih the afterbirth 
 directly into the mother's blood and in tliis way the mother 
 is infected. This is known as ''syphilis by conception.'' 
 
 3. In this class of cases the mother does not become 
 infected, but she becomes imnnine from syphilis and hei* 
 child cannot infect her, nor will she acquire the disease 
 in any other way. 
 
 If pregnancy takes place in a syphilitic mother, gen- 
 erally — 
 
 The first pregnancy ends in an abortion about the 
 second or third month. 
 
 The second is a premature birth of a syphilitic child 
 which dies. 
 
 The third goes to full term, but the child at birth 
 shows signs of the second stage of syphilis. 
 
SYPHILIS 113 
 
 The fourth goes to full term and the child shows no 
 signs of syphilis at birth, but they develop later. 
 
 The fifth child is normal and remains healthy, has no 
 signs of infection and is perfectly free from syphilis. 
 
 The value of careful and efficient treatment cannot 
 be overestimated. All syphilitic patients should place 
 themselves under the care of a physician and continue the 
 treatment for two years at least. Mild cases demand 
 this ; severe ones require more time to effect a cure. 
 
 SYPHILIS AND MARRIAGE. 
 
 It is a difficult problem to state any time that it is 
 safe for a syphilitic woman or man to get married, for 
 when the disease is acquired there is no positive proof 
 that the individual is free from it. 
 
 We may conclude from the observations of the best 
 physicians : 
 
 1. That a woman or man with syphilis should not 
 marry until four or five years after the date of the first 
 infection. 
 
 2. That no person with syphilis should ever get mar- 
 ried unless he or she has been treated for at least two 
 years. 
 
 3. That he or she should not marrv if there are anv 
 
114 WOMAN'S SECRETS 
 
 signs of the disease, no matter how long it may be since 
 the first infection. 
 
 4. That marriage should not be permitted until two 
 years have elapsed since any signs of the disease could 
 be detected. 
 
CHAPTER XII. 
 
 GONORRHOEA. 
 
 Definition. — Gonorrlioea is an acute specific, highly 
 infections, catarrhal inflammation of the genitals. It 
 spreads rapidly and often involves the vulva, vagina, 
 urethra, uterus, tubes and ovaries. It is characterized by 
 a discharge which contains pus of a slight greenish-yellow 
 color, and the germs causing the disease. 
 
 THE INFECTION. 
 
 The vagina, vulva, and urethra may or may not be 
 infected at the same time. Gonorrhoea has a tendency to 
 spread rapidly and to attack not only all the regenerative 
 organs, but the glands in the groin as well. The diseased 
 glands often undergo suppuration and abscesses are 
 formed. The tubes and ovaries and the membrane 
 which lines the abdominal cavity may be involved. 
 Gonorrhoea is caused by the Gonococcus of Neisser, Fig. 
 72. It is from four to seven days after a woman becomes 
 infected before she has any symptoms; in rare cases it 
 may be as late as fourteen days. "Women are infected 
 with gonorrhoea by sexual intercourse, by examination 
 with infected instruments, or by the use of an infected 
 
116 WOMAN'S SECRETS 
 
 douche tip. To say positively that a woman has gon- 
 orrhoea, the discharge must be examined with a micro- 
 scope to see if the gonococcus is present. 
 
 ACUTE FORM. 
 
 Gonorrhoea begins to spread as soon as any part be- 
 comes infected. In favorable cases it does not affect the 
 uterus, but the pelvic organs are so often involved that 
 the disease is one of the most dangerous which attacks 
 
 
 Fig. 72 — The Gonococc; germs which cause the inflammation. 
 
 a woman. If the urethra is infected, which is usually 
 the case, there is at first a light sticky discharge and 
 stinging sensation on urinating. This will last a few 
 days, then the discharge increases and the pain when 
 urinating is more severe, the glands in the groins become 
 enlarged, inflamed and tender to the touch. As the 
 disease advances there is a feeling of fullness in the pelvis, 
 backache, more or less stomach trouble and much nervous- 
 ness. Exercise of any kind will make the condition worse. 
 Under proper treatment and care the above symptoms 
 subside in two or three weeks and the patient makes a 
 
GONORRHOEA 117 
 
 complete recovery. If the inside of the uterus becomes 
 involved and the tubes and ovaries become infected, the 
 disease takes on the chronic form. 
 
 CHRONIC GONORRHOEA. 
 
 The acute symptoms subside and are generally re- 
 placed by pains in sides, headache, a general tired feeling, 
 itching of the vulva, perhaps chills and fever; the general 
 health is more or less affected because of the drain upon 
 the system, loss of sleep and mental worry over the local 
 condition. Menstruation generally brings on the acute 
 stage for the time being. This chronic form may last 
 for months, the infection slowly acting upon the uterus, 
 tubes, and ovaries, causing a discharge from the uterus 
 as illustrated in Fig. 73, and putting the affected parts 
 in such a diseased condition that they must often be re- 
 moved by operation when they cannot be cured by treat- 
 ments. 
 
 REMARKS. 
 
 Gonorrhoea is the cause of a large majority of those 
 grave pelvic troubles which result in sterility, chronic 
 invalidism, and often a loss of life. Chronic gonorrhoea 
 is frequent in both sexes and the disease may remain 
 quiet for years, but still retain its poAver to infect another 
 person. Many young wives are infected by husbands who 
 have not had gonorrhoea for months or years before mar- 
 5a— 
 
118 
 
 WOMAN'S SECRETS 
 
 riage and who are unconscious of any local trouble. No. 
 man who has had gonorrhoea should get married until 
 the gleety discharge has been absolutely cured. He 
 should be deterred by the thought that he may make his 
 
 t 
 
 Fig-. 73 — Showing the discharge from a uterus which is infected 
 with gonorrhoea. 
 
 wife subject to incurable uterine catarrh and a chronic 
 inflammation of the tubes and ovaries which makes a 
 surgical operation. necessary, Fig. 68, Chapter X. 
 
 If a woman is infected by a man who had gonorrhoea 
 years before, there are no acute symptoms, but the chronic 
 
GONORRHOEA 119 
 
 condition slowly develops. Sore eyes of a purulent nature 
 in the children of a family always lead the physician to 
 think of gonorrhoeal infection, as the germs of the disease 
 can be carried to children on fingers, sponges, towels, etc. 
 If a girl baby or child has gonorrhoea of the vulva or 
 vagina the same diseased condition is generally found in 
 the mother or other female members of the family. 
 
 Gonorrhoeal infection of the vulva may occur as an 
 epidemic among children living together in orphan asy- 
 lums, boarding schools, or like institutions, although the 
 hymen prevents infection of the vagina to some extent. 
 Gonorrhoea occuring in a child as the result of rape or 
 accidental infection may cause an arrest in the develop- 
 ment of the genital organs. 
 
 Women who become infected with gonorrhoea should 
 have the best medical attention and not allow the disease 
 to continue unchecked until the entire pelvic organs are 
 affected. 
 
 The patient is not cured if any gonococci can be found 
 by repeated examination of the discharge with a micro- 
 scope. 
 
 This is an age of education for women and they are 
 learning that ^^ Woman pays for the sins of man.'' Ten 
 to twenty per cent, of the blindness in babies is due to 
 gonorrhoea and syphilis. Fifty to ninety per cent, of 
 the inflammatory diseases of the pelvis which lead to the 
 
120 WOMAN'S SECKETS 
 
 operating table may be traced to the same source. More 
 deaths are caused by gonorrhoea or syphilis than by 
 smallpox, yellow fever, diphtheria, scarlet fever and 
 measles combined. 
 
 The legislature of Iowa at the present time is being 
 prevailed upon by the women of the state to pass rigid 
 laws regarding cases of gonorrhoea and syphilis. Each 
 patient is to be isolated and quarantined. If every state 
 in the Union would protect its women by stringent quar- 
 antine acts, gonorrhoea and syphilis would soon be under 
 control, if not altogether extinct. 
 
CHAPTER XIII. 
 
 VENEREAL WARTS. 
 
 A very common infection that is closely associated 
 
 with gonorrhoea and syphilis is Venereal Warts, Fig. 74. 
 
 They are generally located on the Yulva, but in some 
 
 cases they are found abont the anus; also between the 
 
 vulva and anus, and may extend up into the urethra and 
 
 vagina. 
 
 CAUSE. 
 
 They are caused by some irritating discharge, gen- 
 erally considered of a specific nature. Sometimes other 
 conditions will cause them, such as continual irritation; 
 ofttimes it is difficult to tell the real cause, as they occur 
 when a woman has never had gonorrhoea or syphilis. 
 
 REMARKS. 
 
 When the warts are located in the urethra they cause 
 painful urination. They are generally accompanied by 
 an acid discharge which has a fetid odor and a tendency 
 to spread the disease. If for any reason warts develop 
 on the vulva, such a patient should consult a physician 
 at once and have the proper medical or surgical treatment 
 prescribed. If a woman becomes infected with such 
 growths she should keep the parts clean and dry and wash 
 
122 WOMAN'S SECRETS 
 
 out the vagina quite often. Hot applications are bene- 
 ficial and should be applied in the form of cloths wrung 
 
 Fig-. 74 — Showing- venereal warts of the vulva caused by gonorrhoea. 
 (Gilliam's Practical Gynecology, copyright F. A. Davis Company.) 
 
 out in hot water and placed on the vulva several times 
 a day. 
 
CHAPTER XIV. 
 
 LEUCORRHOEA. 
 
 (The Whites) 
 
 Definition. — The word leucorrhoea means a white 
 flow and is used in medicine to designate any discharge 
 from the genitals except blood. The laity calls the dis- 
 charge ^^the whites." The genital tract (that part of 
 the parturient canal extending from the top of the uterus 
 to the external opening of the vagina), should be just 
 moist enough to be soft and slippery, there being no dis- 
 charge of any kind. Not even a drop of fluid should be 
 visible. When a woman has leucorrhoea it is generally 
 a symptom of some diseased condition, as leucorrhoea 
 cannot be considered a disease in the true sense of the 
 word. It is characterized by a white, yellow, green or 
 brown discharge, or it may be colorless like the white of 
 an egg, Fig. 75. 
 
 CAUSE. 
 
 Leucorrhoea is caused by any condition that lowers 
 the general vitality of the system, as mental or physical 
 fatigue, emotions, lack of nourishment, or too long nurs- 
 ing of children by mothers. The discharge may be 
 
124 
 
 WOMAN'S SECRETS 
 
 caused by various kinds of irritation, masturbation, ex- 
 cessive intercourse, childbirth, and abortions. 
 
 Gonorrhoea is also a cause of vaginal discharges and 
 in this case the leucorrhoea is called specific. Any con- 
 stitutional disease, such as consumption, fevers, rheuma- 
 
 « 
 
 Fig-. 75 — Showing a leucorrhoeal discharge from the cervix. (Modi- 
 fied from Massey's Gynecology.) 
 
 tism, or any local diseases of the pelvic organs will cause 
 leucorrhoea — also displacements of the uterus. 
 
 SYMPTOMS. 
 
 Leucorrhoea is a drain on the system and women 
 
LEUCORRHOEA 125 
 
 with a vaginal discharge complain of a general weakness, 
 backache and neuralgia. Such patients often have an 
 irritable bladder or some stomach trouble. They do not 
 sleep well. They also suffer from the diseases which 
 cause the discharge. 
 
 TREATMENT. 
 
 As leucorrhoea is generally a symptom of some un- 
 derlying disease the treatment must be directed to the 
 cause, and in severe cases a physician should be con- 
 sulted. In. simple cases a hot vaginal douche (Chapter 
 XV) may be taken in the morning and a medicated one 
 at bed-time in the proportions of one or two teaspoonfuls 
 of the following powder to a pint of water. Use at least 
 two quarts of water. 
 
 Copy this prescription and have it filled by your 
 druggist : 
 
 Powdered Alum 2 ounces 
 
 Powdered Boracic Acid.-.. 2 ounces 
 
 Powdered Sodium Bicarbonate...... 2 ounces 
 
 Acid Carbolic 20 drops 
 
 Oil Gaultheria 4 drops 
 
 Mix the carbolic acid with the oil and add the pow- 
 ders. Take the douche as directed in Chapter XV. No 
 other treatment of any kind should be attempted by the 
 woman herself. A patient who suffers from an excessive 
 discharge from the vagina should consult a physician. 
 
CHAPTER XV. 
 
 THE VAGINAL DOUCHE. 
 
 The vaginal douche is a vahiable agent in the treat- 
 ment of diseases of the pelvis and vagina. It is often 
 ordered by the physician and frequently used by the 
 patient, yet there are few women who understand how 
 to obtain tlie best results by its application. As a rule 
 the physician does not give sufficient instructions to his 
 patient; therefore we will consider the subject quite 
 carefully. 
 
 ARTICLES REQUIRED. 
 
 1. Bath thermometer, Fig 76. 
 
 2. Reservoir (a) Fig. 77, or fountain syringe, Fig. 78. 
 
 3. Glass douche tip (b) Fig. 77.) 
 
 4. Douche pan (c) Fig. 77, or Kelly pad, Fig. 79. 
 
 5. A bucket or slop jar for the overflow. 
 
 Every woman should supply herself with these ar- 
 ticles. They can be obtained at any surgical instrument 
 house or from a druggist. 
 
 The reservoir is made of granite with a spout foi 
 attaching rubber tubing and should hold at least one gal- 
 lon of water. 
 
THE VAGINAL DOUCHE 
 
 127 
 
 The glass vaginal douche tip has openings in the 
 end and is attached to the rubber tubing. It is best to 
 use a glass douche tip as it is easy to keep clean. 
 
 The douche pan is made of metal and should have a 
 rubber tube attached to carry the overflow into the bucket 
 or slop jar. 
 
 V\g. 76 — Bath thermometer. Ashton's Practice of Gynecology.) 
 
 Fig-. 77 — a, — reservoir; b, — glass douche tip; c, — douche pan. (Ash» 
 ton's Practice of Gynecology.) 
 
128 
 
 WOMAN'S SECRETS 
 
 The Kelly pad is made of rubber and is used in place 
 of the douche pan. It has a hollow rim which is inflated 
 with air by blowing through a valve. If a woman has 
 not a Kelly pad she can make a substitute as illustrated in 
 
 Fig-, 78— A fountain syringe with a glass vaginal douche tip at- 
 tached. (Ashton's Practice of Gynecology.) 
 
 Fig. 79— A Kelly pad. (Ashton's Practice of Gynecology.) 
 
THE VAGINAL DOUCHE 129 
 
 Fig. 80. Make a roll out of a Turkisli towel placing it in 
 the form of a half circle and covering it over with a sheet 
 of rubber oilcloth like that used on kitchen tables. 
 
 KINDS OF DOUCHES. 
 
 Hot, warm, medicated, and cleansing are the four 
 kinds of douches to be considered. 
 
 1. A hot douche is given to stop inflammation, that 
 is, to keep the blood away from the pelvis, and the tem- 
 perature of the water should be about 120 degrees. 
 
 2. A warm douche is used to bring the blood to the 
 pelvis and in this case the temperature is only 95 degrees. 
 
 3. The medicated douche is employed in treating 
 some diseased condition of the vagina or cervix. Your 
 physician will prescribe the kind and amount of med- 
 icine to use. 
 
 4. The cleansing douche is used simply for the pur- 
 pose of cleanliness. The temperature of the medicated 
 and cleansing should be the same as for the warm 
 douche. 
 
 DURATION OF THE DOUCHE. 
 
 Hot douche, thirty minutes. Warm douche, twenty 
 minutes. Medicated douche, ten minutes. Cleansing 
 douche requires only a few minutes, as generally only two 
 quarts of water are used at a time. 
 
130 
 
 WOMAN'S >SECRETS 
 TIME. 
 
 The most convenient time is before dressing in the 
 morning or just before retiring in the evening. As a 
 general rule patients are required to take a douche only 
 
 Fig-. 80 — Ashton's substitute for the Kelly pad. (Ashton's Practice 
 of Gynecology. 
 
 at these periods, but they must be governed according 
 to instructions of the physician. Some cases may require 
 the douche every three hours and others only once a day. 
 
THE VAGINAL DOUCHE 
 
 131 
 
 The cleansing douche is taken only as needed, from once 
 a dav to everv two or three days. 
 
 POSITION OF THE PATIENT. 
 
 In all cases it is best for the patient to take a douche 
 lying doAvn so that the vaginal walls become distended 
 
 Fig-. 81 — Showing the different conditions of the vagina when taking 
 a douche, a, — correct position; vagina distended with water, 
 b, — incorrect position; vaginal waUs coUapsed and touching each 
 other. (Ashton's Practice of Gynecolog3^) 
 
132 WOMAN'S SECRETS 
 
 as shown in (a) Fig. 81. The cleansing douche can be 
 taken in a squatting position as shoAvn in Fig. 84, but in 
 
 Fig. 82 — This shows the correct position for taking a vaginal douche. 
 The patient is lying down and the vaginal walls are distended 
 as illustrated in Fig. 81, — a. 
 
THE YAGIXAL DOUCHE 133 
 
 Fig. 83 — Using a Kelly pad instead of a douche pan while taking a 
 vaginal douche. 
 
134 WOMAN'S SECRETS 
 
 this case the vaginal walls are collapsed and touch each 
 other as illustrated in (b) Fig. 81. The hot, warm, and 
 medicated douche must always be taken lying down as 
 illustrated in Figs. 82 or 83, which show the correct 
 position. 
 
 PROPER WAY TO TAKE A VAGINAL DOUCHE. 
 
 If possible; a woman should use a cot or sofa with 
 springs so stiff that there is but little sagging. If this is 
 not at hand, take an ironing board and place it length- 
 wise in the bed or on a lounge and use douche pan, (c) 
 Fig. 77. The patient must be lying lengthwise on the 
 back with the hips raised on the douche pan. In this 
 position the water will come in direct contact with the 
 pelvic organs. If the douche be taken in a squatting 
 position over a vessel. Fig. 84, the water does not reach 
 the upper pari; of the vagina, and the effect of the douche 
 is not obtained. If the Kelly pad is used, it is best to 
 place the ironing board across the bed and let the feet 
 rest on chairs. In all cases the reservoir or fountain 
 syringe should be placed about four feet above the bed. 
 A rubber tube should connect the outflow of the bedpan 
 with the slop jar or bucket. If the patient has neither 
 a douche pan nor a Kelly pad, she must use the substitute 
 for same, as illustrated in Fig. 80. Often it is convenient 
 for a woman to take a douche in the bathtub : in this case 
 
THE VAGINAL DOUCHE 
 
 135 
 
 Fig_ 84 — Showing patient squatting while taking a vaginal douche. 
 This is wrong, as the vagina is collapsed as illustrated m 
 Fig. 81,— b. 
 
136 WOMAN'S SECRETS 
 
 neither a douche pan nor Kelly pad need be used, but the 
 hips should be elevated on a Turkish towel folded about 
 the same thickness as the douche pan. To prevent catch- 
 ing cold, a woolen blanket is placed over the abdomen 
 and lower extremities. Let the water flow very slowly. 
 It is a good plan to close the vaginal opening around the 
 glass douche tip by pinching the parts together with the 
 thumb and finger; at the same time stop the flow with 
 the other hand and retain the water a few seconds. Re- 
 member, the douche point should be inserted into the 
 vagina only a short distance as illustrated in (a) Fig. 81. 
 
 These instructions are to be followed in taking a hot 
 or warm douche. In the medicated form always take a 
 plain sterile (water which has been boiled) douche before 
 using the medicated; this will wash awny all discharges. 
 If a poisonous drug is used in the medicated douche, a 
 final sterile douche should be taken to wash out the med- 
 icine, to prevent any absorption of the poison. 
 
 The same appliances are used and the same instruc- 
 tions followed whether a trained nurse gives the douche 
 or it is taken by the patient herself. The only exception 
 is when a woman takes a cleansing douche herself. In 
 this case the reservoir (generally a fountain syringe) is 
 suspended about four feet above the floor and the douche 
 is taken squatting over a vessel as illustrated in Fig. 84. 
 If a cleansing douche is given by a trained nurse, it is 
 
THE VAGINAL DOUCHE 137 
 
 given the same as a hot or warm one only not so much 
 water used. 
 
 In any case where there is excessive discharge and 
 only a cleansing douche is required, follow the same 
 instructions as for a hot or warm douche, only use more 
 water and let flow freely, using no glass douche tip. 
 Simply place the rubber tubing in the vagina a short dis- 
 tance, pinch the parts close around the tube, then let the 
 water go out with a gush. This will bring the vaginal 
 wall on a stretch and dislodge all secretions from the 
 vagina, also all discharges from the uterus. The act of 
 closing the parts around the tube and then releasing 
 should be done several times while taking the douche. . 
 
 Never take a douche with cold water because it will 
 cause serious inflammation. Do not allow anyone to use 
 your douche tip or fountain syringe, because there is great 
 danoer of carrvino^ infection and disease bv so doinsr. 
 
CHAPTER XVI. 
 
 HOW SURGICAL OPERATIONS AFFECT A WOMAN 
 
 WHEN THE TUBES AND OVARIES ARE 
 
 REMOVED. 
 
 The general impression among the laity is that the 
 removal of the tubes and ovaries causes a woman to lose 
 her feminine attractions. HoAvever, this is not true. 
 There is no tendency whatever toward the development 
 of the masculine type. There is no change in the voice, 
 nor is the figure altered in any way. In some cases there 
 is a tendency for a patient to become fat. 
 
 The relief from pain as a result of such operations 
 causes a large majority of women to become more at- 
 tractive in their general appearance, and the general 
 health of the patient gradually improves. In some cases 
 when the tubes and ovaries have been diseased for years, 
 the damage done in the pelvis is often so extensive and the 
 patient so weakened that perfect health cannot be re- 
 stored. Yet, in most cases of long standing the removal 
 of the diseased tubes and ovaries will change the state 
 of invalidism to comparative health and usefulness. 
 
 In most acute cases the relief from pain is imme- 
 diate and the patient regains her normal health within a 
 
REMOVAL OP TUBES AND OVARIES 139 
 
 few weeks after the operation. The removal of only one 
 tube or ovary does not affect the patient in any way. 
 When both tubes and ovaries are removed, the menopause 
 (Chapter IX) appears and the patient has all of the 
 symptoms which would naturally appear at that time. 
 The full benefit of the operation is not obtained until 
 these symptoms have subsided. 
 
 Surgical operation is not the primary cause of in- 
 sanity. More often an operation prevents it. If a patient 
 does go insane after the removal of the tubes and ovaries, 
 there is always existing an inherited tendency to in- 
 sanity and the change of life is a direct cause of a mental 
 break-down. With the loss of the tubes and ovaries a 
 woman loses the power to become pregnant. Some women 
 Avorry over this fact and become despondent, especially 
 if the operation occurs early in life, because they are 
 anxious to have children. 
 
 If for any reason the tubes and ovaries should be 
 removed before a girl menstruates her sexual develop- 
 ment will be arrested. 
 
 The effect upon the sexual appetite does not differ 
 from that of the normal menopause. In a large majority 
 of cases it increases because the woman regains her health 
 and has no more tenderness in the pelvis. 
 
CHAPTER XVII. 
 
 MASTURBATION. 
 
 By the term masturbation or self abuse, we mean 
 the gratification of the sexual passion by the use of the 
 hand or any foreign body on oneself or another person. 
 The most common form of masturbation in women con- 
 sists in irritating the clitoris Avith the hand or by an oval 
 shaped body introduced into the vagina. Imperfect mas- 
 turbation is often practiced by infants of either sex who 
 have no idea what they are doing. They may be taught 
 the habit by an unprofessional or unscrupulous nurse ni 
 order to keep them quiet, or perchance by accident they 
 find that handling the genitals produces a pleasurable 
 sensation. In childhood we find the habit more among 
 boys than we do among girls, but later in life it occurs 
 nuich more in women than in men. In infants we notice a 
 reddened condition at the entrance of the vacrina, also 
 an over-secretion. Again, there are changes in the child, 
 such as sudden redness of the face followed by paleness, 
 twitching of the muscles, hurried breathing and deep 
 sighs. These spells often come on when the child is sit- 
 ting on the floor or rocking and when pressing the fists 
 against the genitals. These attacks have a tendency to 
 completely wreck the nervous system ; therefore infants 
 
MASTURBATION 141 
 
 and their nurses should be carefully watched. When 
 such a condition is suspected it is well to consult a phys- 
 ician in order that he may immediately discover any 
 irritation that may be present and prescribe the proper 
 treatment. It is better for such a child to lie on a hard 
 couch and not be covered too warmly. Rich and highly 
 seasoned foods should be prohibited. During an attack 
 the child should be taken up, her thighs separated, her 
 hands removed from her abdomen and her mind diverted. 
 In older children we find the external genitals in a condi- 
 tion that would result from continual irritation. 
 
 As to the general health, masturbation causes the 
 nervous system to suffer more than any other in all its 
 functions. It causes a general nervousness, destroys the 
 mental faculties, causes pains in various parts of the 
 body, paralysis and insanity. The nutrition is also im- 
 paired, there is loss in weight, the face becomes pale, the 
 appetite poor, the bowels constipated, dark rings appear 
 under the eyes and often there is inflammation of the 
 bladder. 
 
 We beseech every young girl into whose hands this 
 book may chance to fall to look with horror and disgust 
 upon this crime, and we trust that she will remain pure 
 and innocent and that she may realize the depths of deg- 
 radation into which she will fall if she ever attempts to 
 practice such an evil. It will simply ruin her health and 
 6 — 
 
142 WOMAN'S SECRETS 
 
 the life that is before her. Words cannot express the 
 deplorable results of this detestable habit, and woe to the 
 governess, nnrse, or associate Avho teaches any innocent 
 girl that which means her destruction. For she must be 
 taught at first by someone. ^Mothers should have an eye 
 upon their daughters and realize the fact that such a 
 vice does exist, and use every effort to prevent it. We 
 could say nothing better than to quote one of our eminent 
 medical men. lie says in part, '^We could give facts 
 almost without number, in reported cases, to show the 
 prevalence and destructive nature of this vice among 
 girls, but we forebear. The subject is painful and re- 
 volting even to contemplate. We believe we have said 
 enough to terrify jiarents into tlu^ needful precautions 
 against it. If so mucli lias beiMi accomplished, our object 
 has been realized.'' We I'cinai-k, however, in conclusion, 
 that it is not sufficient to use merely ordinary precautions 
 of a jndicious watchfuliu^ss in suspected cases, but skill- 
 ful questioning must from time to time be employed. The 
 subject should never be avoided through false delicacy, 
 and such lessons should be imparted on the dreadful con- 
 sequences of the habit, that one who is a victim of such 
 vice will stop it. It were far better, my good mother, to 
 acquaint even pure minded and perfectly innocent girls 
 wdth the existence of such a vice and teach them its hor- 
 rible consequences than to fail through false modesty and 
 
MASTURBATION 
 
 143 
 
 mistaken motives of delicacy to impart that informa- 
 tion which may save the life and health of the purest 
 and dea^'est creature on this earth, vour daughter. 
 
CHAPTER XVIIl. 
 
 CONSTIPATION. 
 
 Many years ago an eminent physician defined woman 
 as ^^a constipated biped with a pain in her back." This 
 was unjust, but he was not far from right. He did not 
 mention that the pain was due to constipation, but it 
 very often is. The fact is that this complaint is almost 
 universal among women and is the indirect cause of much 
 of their suffering. 
 
 Definition: — Chronic constipation is the habitual pro- 
 longed retention of the contents of the lower bowel which 
 naturally become hardened on account of the absorp- 
 tion of its liquid part. We are not permitted to say that 
 it is a disease, but it is a symptom of some other trouble. 
 The essential point is not so much how often the bowels 
 move, but how long the contents of the bowels are re- 
 tained. In most cases there is a marked infrequency of 
 movement. In usual cases the normal length of time 
 between movements of the bowels in adults is twenty- 
 four hours. 
 
 CAUSES. 
 
 Chronic constipation is produced by various condi- 
 
CONSTIPATION 145 
 
 lions, some of a general and others of a local character. 
 Among them are the habits of women who mingle largely 
 in social circles, neglect to evacuate the bowels at the 
 proper time, improper diet, insufficient amount of water, 
 bodily inactivity, the ill-advised use of cathartics, back- 
 ward displacement of the uterus, tumors, or any ab- 
 normal condition of the rectum. 
 
 1. The Habits of Women Who Mingle Largely in 
 Social Circles. — In the upper classes we find sedentary 
 habits and various chronic diseases, especially liver, stom- 
 ach, nervous disorders, and often hysteria. 
 
 2. Neglect of Evacuating the Bowels at the Proper 
 Time. — Worry or severe mental work which occupies a 
 patient's attention to such an extent that she neglects to 
 respond to the calls of nature is a well-known cause of 
 chronic constipation. 
 
 3. Improper Diet. — There is a good deal of discus- 
 sion among medical authorities as to what extent diet 
 causes chronic constipation, but the weight of authority 
 tells us that the diet which produces a ,small amount of 
 residue will have a tendency to cause constipation. 
 
 4. Insufficient Amount of Water. — This is another 
 very important cause of chronic constipation. It is sur- 
 prising to note what a small amount of water, a fluid 
 whose use is essential to good health, the majority of 
 women will consume in twenty-four hours. 
 
146 WOMAN'S SECRETS 
 
 5. Bodily Inactivity. — This is due to sedentary habits 
 diid to dressing which destroys the proper movements of 
 the diaphragm. Tight lacing results in flabby abdominal 
 walls, which in turn produce poor muscular action of the 
 bowels. 
 
 6. Ill-advised Use of Cathartics. — The ill-advised use 
 of cathartics is frequently responsible for improper action 
 of the bowels. As a rule Avhen patients begin to l)e con- 
 stipated they begin to take medicine. This is unfortunate, 
 for the continuation of such remedies will in time <lestroy 
 the proper tone of the muscles of the bowels. True, im- 
 mediate relief is obtained, but as constipation and the 
 other symptoms return, patients again resort to drugs for 
 relief. Stronger doses and frequent changes of medicine 
 are required from tiiiie to time. The patient soon finds 
 that she is a slave to the medicine habit and that the ])ow- 
 els will not move without assistance. 
 
 A diseased condition of the nerves of the bowels, 
 dyspepsia, displacement of the uterus, chronic inflamma- 
 tion of the lining membrane, and growths in the intes- 
 tines which would in time form tumors will also cause 
 constipation. Local conditions in and about the rectum, 
 such as ulcers, tumors, and piles ; fissures caused by crack- 
 ing of the mucous membranes, strictures due to a con- 
 traction of the muscles about the rectum frequently result 
 in chronic constipation. 
 
CONSTIPATION 147 
 
 EFFECTS. 
 
 The effect of constipation upon the system is very 
 marked. The poison which is absorbed from the bowels 
 causes headaches, depression of spirit, loss of appetite, bad 
 breath, coated tongue and loss of weight. In women it 
 also causes palpitation of the heart, cold hands and feet 
 and neuralgic pains in various parts of the body. Women 
 have suffered so commonly from this kind of poison and 
 for so long a time that they use the words ''biliousness'' 
 and ''sick headache'' to express this condition and to the 
 laity it indicates some liver trouble. Investigation shows 
 that the poisons which are formed in the intestines and 
 absorbed while a patient is constipated produce these 
 well known eft'ects upon the system. The circulation of 
 the poison through the system causes mental depression 
 and destroys the intellect. No matter how gentle, benign, 
 and hopeful a woman may be, chronic constipation will in 
 time render her very irritable in temper and destroy her 
 once pleasing manner. 
 
 It is interesting to note that the inmates in the asy- 
 lums are generally constipated, and the depressed insane 
 are promptly improved by a vigorous cathartic. 
 
 Prolonged constipation may result in piles (hem- 
 orrhoids), or an over-stretching of the bowels. The irri- 
 tation of the hardened masses may cause the formation of 
 ulcers. 
 
148 WOMAN'S SECRETS 
 
 The blood of a chronically constipated patient be- 
 comes very poor and as a result a breaking out occurs on 
 the skin, also dark colored or brown spots appear on the 
 face. If women wish to have a beautiful and clear com- 
 plexion, there must be a normal condition of the stomach 
 and bowels. 
 
 Chronic constipation destroys the vital forces of the 
 body and lowers the power of resisting diseases to such 
 an extent that the sufferer not only endures the direct bad 
 effects but is susceptible to any disease with which she 
 may come in contact. 
 
 TREATMENT. 
 
 Until a short time ago the medical profession paid 
 but little if any attention to the curative treatment of 
 chronic constipation, but it is gratifying to the sufferers 
 from such conditions to note that science has made suc- 
 cessful development along this line. Today we are prac- 
 tically masters of the situation. All uncomplicated cases 
 that are due simply to inactivity of the muscles of the 
 bowels can be cured. When the patient will not adhere 
 strictly to the physician's orders she cannot be cured. To 
 cure chronic constipation it is necessary to establish the 
 habit of regularity in evacuating the bowels. A patient 
 should go to the toilet every morning even if there is no 
 desire for the bowels to move, and endeavor to cultivate 
 
CONSTIPATION 149 
 
 a stimulus to the bowels which will result in regularity. 
 The medicine and enema habit acquired by women who 
 are troubled with constipation will be mentioned simply 
 to be condemned. It is astonishing to know the amount 
 of cathartics which are used each year to simply make bad 
 matters worse. One combination of drugs is tried until it 
 has lost its effect, and then another, until the effect of each 
 combination is worn out. These patients go, as a general 
 rule, from one physician to another seeking relief, but too 
 often they are given a prescription to relieve the present 
 condition only, and are not improved in the end. Too 
 little attention is paid to chronic constipation because 
 patients do not consider it a serious detriment to their 
 health. 
 
 To effect a cure in chronic constipation, the physician 
 must first find out the cause and relieve it before he can 
 ever hope for success. This requires a careful, diligent, 
 ;ind thorough examination and study of each individual 
 case. If a woman has chronic constipation and expects to 
 be cured, her ease must be thoroughly studied and prop- 
 erly treated. As you will note, it may be due to one of 
 several causes. 
 
 There are some things a patient can do to assist her 
 physician. In the first place she must comply to a letter 
 with his orders. She should take the proper exercise 
 either outdoor or indoor, and eat suitable food. Now 
 
 6a— 
 
150 WOMAN'S SECRETS 
 
 if it were possible for a physician to prescribe a diet that 
 would lill the bowels with undigested food, to produce 
 stimulation in the bowels, the treatment would be ideal 
 for simple uncomplicated cases, but this is impossible 
 because such a diet would in a short time cause inflamma- 
 tion in the stomach and bowels. A suitable diet is ot 
 so mucfi importance that all women who suffer with 
 chronic constipation should select foods that will leave 
 a large amount of residue in the bowels. At the same 
 time it must be a diet that is nutritious and not irritating 
 and one that suits the peculiarities of the individual. 
 In order to instruct these sufferers as best we can in 
 this article, we will mention a few rules of diet which 
 will increase the amount of residue in the bowels. 
 
 Rule 1. Drink plenty of Avater and partake of juicy 
 fruits and tuberous vegetables, such as beets, carrots, 
 turnips, etc., as they contain large amounts of water. 
 Masticate the food thoroughly. This will increase the 
 amount of fluid. Cold water is beneficial taken one hour 
 before meals and before bedtime, beginning with half 
 a glass and increasing four ounces each day until one 
 or two quarts are consumed every twenty-four hours. If 
 there is any stomach trouble like indigestion drink hot 
 water in place of cold. 
 
 Rule 2. See that there is a large amount of indi- 
 gestible solid matter in the food, such as fruits and 
 
CONSTIPATION 151 
 
 cereals, that contain seeds and husks, also fibrous and 
 woody materials. Lettuce, spinach, greens, watercress, 
 celery, oatmeal or any coarse cereal are along this line. 
 Whole wheat bread may be added. 
 
 Rule 3. Select foods which will cause gas to form 
 in the bowels. In this class will be those articles of 
 diet that contain starch, sugar and fat. Potatoes, mo- 
 lasses, honey, bacon, and fat meats form a very suitable 
 diet to produce such a condition. The fat envelops the 
 starch granules and they then decompose, forming gas; 
 this increases the action of the bowels. Fat also lubricates 
 the intestinal tract and allows the contents of the bowels 
 to pass more freely. 
 
 Rule 4. Last but not least, we must add to the diet 
 list something which will increase the floAV of bile from 
 the liver, and the flow of juices from the stomach and 
 other organs of digestion. We have prunes, figs, dates, 
 apricots, apples, peaches, oranges, lemons, grapes, pears, 
 and quinces from which to select for this purpose. It is 
 also claimed that olive oil and fats have the same effect. 
 If such a diet as outlined above should cause either pains 
 in the abdomen or diarrhoea, it should be discontinued. 
 In some cases a fruit diet does well, but the fruit must 
 be ripe and pure, as green or decayed fruit does much 
 harm. 
 
CHAPTER XIX. 
 
 THE ENEMA. 
 
 Definition. — By the term enema we mean the in- 
 jection of plain or medicated water into the rectum and 
 colon (the large bowel). In hospital practice it is termed 
 the low and high enema. 
 
 ARTICLES REQUIRED. 
 
 A fountain syringe, Fig. 85, or a reservoir, Fig. 77, 
 a hard rubber syringe with rectal tube attached as in 
 Fig. 90, and a rectal tip. Although a tip comes with 
 all syringes the improved one designed by Dr. Ashton is 
 of great value, Fig. 86. It is constructed with a large 
 flange one inch in diameter. When the tip is inserted 
 in the rectum the flange presses against the parts and 
 prevents the instrument from going too high in the 
 bowel, and helps to retain the fluid by stimulating the 
 contracting muscles of the rectum. 
 
 USES. 
 
 The enema is used to give temporary relief in chronic 
 constipation, to wash the poison caused by constipation 
 out of the large bowel, to assist in preparing the general 
 
THE ENEMA 
 
 153 
 
 system for surgical operation, and to increase the action 
 of the liver and kidneys. It is used by some physicians 
 
 Fig-. 85 — A fountain syringe witli rectal tip attached. (Ashton's 
 Practice of Gynecology.) 
 
 Fi^. 86 — The best form of rectal tip used for washing out the large 
 bowel. (Ashton's Practice of Gynecology.) 
 
154 WOMAN ^S SECRETS 
 
 to reduce the temperature and cleanse the bowels in 
 typhoid fever. It is valuable in shock after operation. 
 Its daily use as a remedy for constipation is a practice 
 as detrimental to the patient as the medicine habit. 
 From a medical standpoint it is very useful and essential. 
 The physician should order the kind of an enema accord- 
 ing to the condition of the patient. 
 
 THE KIND OF ENEMATA. 
 
 1. The Plain Enema. — This is in general use by the 
 laity. It is composed of a quart of water at a tempera- 
 ture of 100 degrees and enough castile soapsuds to make 
 a colored solution. 
 
 2. The Medicated Enema. — When more stimulation 
 is required, as in obstinate constipation, medicine is often 
 added to the plain, thus: 
 
 (a) Castor oil or olive oil 1 ounce 
 
 Plain (100 degrees) 2 pints 
 
 or, 
 
 (b) Epsom Salts 2 ounces 
 
 Glycerine 2 ounces 
 
 Spirits of Turpentine .-. 1 teaspoonful 
 
 Hot water (100 degrees) 1 pint 
 
 (c) Often when prompt relief is necessary an ounce 
 of glycerine is ordered injected into the rectum with a 
 small hard rubber syringe. 
 
THE ENEMA 155 
 
 (d) Six ounces of hot olive oil at a temperature of 
 110 degrees given high is also prescribed for obstinate 
 constipation. 
 
 (e) One pint of milk of asafoetida is injected into 
 the bowel when a great deal of gas in the bowels is as- 
 sociated with constipation, or after an operation. This 
 may be given high. 
 
 (f ) Another form of medicated enema is the normal 
 salt solution. This is made by putting one teaspoonful 
 of common table salt to each pint of water used. It is 
 given hot. warm or cold and may be injected high or 
 low as the case requires. 
 
 8. The Hot Enema. — This is given to increase the 
 action of the heart or kidneys. It is given at a tempera- 
 ture of 110 to 120 degrees and is composed of water only. 
 
 Jr. The Cold Enema. — A cold enema is given in 
 fevers and when a reaction is required. Cold water 
 stmiulates and tones the boAvels, whereas hot water re- 
 laxes. The proper temperature for a cold enema is 60 
 to 70 degrees. Less w^ater is used and it is not retained 
 as long as is the warm or hot enema. 
 
 5. The Warm Enema. — This is composed of plain 
 water and is given at a temperature of 90 to 95 degrees. 
 It is generally prescribed immediately before giving a 
 cold enema, as it increases its action, causing a decided 
 reaction. 
 
156 WOMAN'S SECRETS 
 
 6. The Nutritive Enema. — When the stomach will 
 not retain nourishment on account of a surgical operation 
 or any diseased condition a nutritive enema is given. It 
 should be given high at a temperature of 100 degrees, not 
 more than three or four ounces at a time and not oftener 
 than from four to eight hours. If more fluid is used it will 
 not be retained. 
 
 The following formulas are generally used: 
 
 (a) Liquid Peptonoids 1 ounce 
 
 Normal salt solution 3 ounces 
 
 (b) One raw egg 
 
 A little table salt 
 
 Whiskey V2 ounce 
 
 Peptonized milk 3 ounces 
 
 (c) One raw egg 
 
 Peptonized milk 3 ounces 
 
 Beef juice 1 ounce 
 
 A little table salt 
 
 HOW AN ENEMA SHOULD BE GIVEN. 
 
 Any form of enema may be given low or high ex- 
 cept the glycerine alone. It should be given low. By 
 the term low enema we mean that the enema is injected 
 in the rectum. By the high enema we mean that the fluid 
 is placed in the large bowel so that it traverses its entire 
 length and reaches every part of the colon. This is some- 
 
THE ENEMA 157 
 
 times called a colonic flushing and is accomplished by 
 using the rectal tube, Fig. 90, instead of the tip. The 
 rectal tube is slipped over the small rectal tip which 
 comes with a fountain syringe. Your physician will 
 give orders as to whether it should be high or low and 
 the kind of enema to use, but for the purposes for which 
 women generally use the enema there are some special 
 instructions that will be of advantage. It may be that 
 she must have an attendant or nurse to assist her, as it is 
 somewhat awkward for a woman to follow alone the 
 technique as herein described. "When the patient is con- 
 fined in bed the low enema is given with patient lying on 
 her left side. After it is taken she should lie on her 
 back for a few minutes and then turn over on the right 
 side. This will give the water a tendency to gravitate 
 around in the direction of the large bowel. The same 
 position is used for the high enema when the patient is 
 weak and in bed, but the rectal tube is used in the place 
 of the tip. Even in health it is much better to take an 
 enema this way than to take it sitting over the toilet, 
 as is generally practiced. It should be retained as long 
 as possible, but where a thorough cleansing of the bowels 
 is required it is best, if the patient is strong enough, to 
 take the enema in the knee-chest position. Hold the 
 rectal tip. Fig. 86, which has been attached to the rubber 
 tubing which is connected with a fountain syringe or 
 
158 
 
 WOMAN'S SECRETS 
 
 reservoir, as illustrated in Fig. 87. If it is desired to 
 give the bowels a thorough cleansing the medicated enema 
 of normal salt solution should be used. There should be 
 from one to two quarts of this solution in the syringe 
 which is huno^ about five feet from the floor. Unfasten 
 
 Fig. 87 — Showing first position of the patient and how to hold the 
 rectal tip. (Ashton's Practice of Gynecology.) 
 
 the clip and allow a small quantity of the solution to 
 run out; this expels the air and alloAvs the escape of the 
 cold water which was in the rubber tube. Now fasten 
 the tube and lubricate the tip with vaseline or soap and 
 place in the rectum as shown in Pig. 87, with the patient 
 
THE ENEMA 
 
 159 
 
 kneeling and in the position illustrated. When the solu- 
 tion begins to flow the tip is held firmly against the parts 
 and the patient takes the position illustrated in Fig. 88. 
 When the fluid begins to enter the rectum as a general 
 rule there is a desire to expel it, but the patient should 
 
 Fig. 88 — Showing- second position of the patient when taking an 
 enema. (Ashton's Practice of Gynecology.) 
 
 make every effort to retain it. The tip should be pressed 
 firmly against the parts. Patients can ofttimes hear a 
 gurgling sound when the water passes farther up the 
 bowel and then the solution will flow freely. When the 
 syringe is empty the tip is withdrawn and the patient 
 
160 
 
 WOMAN'S SECRETS 
 
 rolls over on the right side, as illustrated in Fig. 89. When 
 there is a pressing desire to empty the bowels the patient 
 sits on the toilet or vessel or, if confined in bed, the 
 bedpan, and there is a complete evacuation of the solu- 
 tion and poisonous material as well as the contents of 
 the bowels. It does not take very long to accomplish 
 this method of cleansing the bowels and it is very effective. 
 If the patient is too weak to take the enema in the posi- 
 tion mentioned, she should lie on the left side, have the 
 
 Fig'. S9 — Showing third position of the patient with large bowel filled 
 with water. (Ashton's Practice of Gynecology.) 
 
 hips elevated, and use the rectal tube, placing the solution 
 as high as possible in the boAvel. Then take the same 
 position as directed in the low enema. 
 
 In giving the nutritive enema a hard rubber syringe 
 and a rectal tube, as illustrated in Fig. 90, should be used. 
 The solution is drawn up into the syringe and enough 
 force used to expel the air. The tube is inserted in the 
 rectum a distance of ten to fourteen inches after being 
 well oiled with sterile vaseline or olive oil. This enema 
 
THE ENEMA 161 
 
 should be given high so that it can be absorbed by coining 
 in contact with more of the bowel surface. The patient 
 should be placed on the right side or in the knee-chest 
 position in giving this enema. Before giving the nutritive 
 enema a cleansing enema of normal salt solution or a plain 
 
 Fig. 90 — A syringe and rectal tube used in giving a nutritive enema. 
 (Ashton's Practice of Gj^necology.) 
 
 enema should be given, and if the bowels will not retain 
 the nutritive enema, ofttimes five or ten minims of tinc- 
 ture of opium is added to the mixture. 
 
 The enema composed of normal salt solutions is given 
 for shock after operation. The rectal tube is used as 
 
162 WOMAN'S SECRETS 
 
 directed above and the solution is allowed to flow con- 
 tinuously a few drops at a time. This is known as the 
 drop method. 
 
 Under the head of the different enemas the tempera- 
 ture and quantity of the various kinds have been given, 
 and they should be referred to when giving an enema. 
 It is safe for a Avoman to use the normal salt solution or 
 the plain enema either low or high for the purpose of 
 giving herself temporary i-elief in chronic constipation, 
 but she should not attempt to administer any of the 
 other forms unless so ordered by her physician or a pro- 
 fessional nurse who may have charge of her. 
 
CHAPTER XX. 
 
 DIET. 
 
 The subject of diet is one of great importance either 
 iu health or in disease, and it is impossible to give in 
 one chapter an exhaustive treatise upon the different 
 kinds of foods, their composition and uses. It is very 
 essential that every woman should purchase some good 
 book on the subject, as Freidemvald's *'Diet in Health 
 and Disease." and give it her careful attention, because 
 the subject is so neglected and abused both in the pro- 
 fession and among the laity that it would require a 
 volume to give a comprehensive discourse and specific 
 directions in the matter of healthful food. Food-stuffs 
 require careful study. Without going into any minute 
 details in regard to the chemistry of them or the physi- 
 ology of digestion, we will give a few fixed rules and diet 
 lists which may be used as a reference when any special 
 diet is ordered for a patient by the attending physician. 
 
 THE METHOD OF COOKING AND PREPARING 
 
 FOOD. 
 
 The preparation and cooking of food-stuffs is prac- 
 
164 WOMAN'S SECRETS 
 
 ticed by all tribes, nations, and races, whether savage or 
 civilized. Foods are cooked for the foUoAving reasons : 
 
 1. To improve their flavor. 
 
 2. To soften them so that they can be thoroughly 
 masticated. 
 
 3. To destroy any infection or germs which may 
 be present. 
 
 4. To make the chemical changes which assist di- 
 gestion. 
 
 VEGETABLES. 
 
 The fact that vegetables are largely composed of 
 starch granules makes cooking them a necessity. They 
 should be put into boiling water and it should be kept 
 at the same temperature. Salt in the proportion of one 
 teaspoonful to two quarts of Avater should be added 
 when the vegetables are partly cooked. Cabbage, cauli- 
 flower, onions, and turnips are best boiled under cover 
 in a large amount of water, while fresh green vegetables 
 require less. After they are drained, a seasoning of salt and 
 pepper should be added to suit the taste. The following 
 sauce makes them more palatable : Three tablespoonfuls 
 of butter, three tablespoonfuls of flour, one teaspoonful 
 of salt, white pepper, one cup of milk, and one cup of 
 stock (water in which the boiling is done). Vegetables 
 should not be cooked too rapidly. The following time- 
 table is given by the Drexel Institute : 
 
DIET 165 
 
 Potatoes 25-30 min. Spinach 30-45 min. 
 
 Carrots 35-45 min. Celery 20-30 min. 
 
 Turnips 45 min. Parsnips 30-45 min. 
 
 Beets (young) 45 min. Green peas 30-40 min. 
 
 Beets (old) 3-4 h'rs. String beans 1-3 h'rs. 
 
 Tomatoes 1-3 h'rs. Lima beans 1 hr. or more 
 
 Onions 45-60 min. Green corn 12-20 min. 
 
 Cabbage 45-60 min. Rice 20-45 min. 
 
 Cauliflower .20-30 min. Macaroni 45-65 min. 
 
 Asparagus 20-30 min. 
 
 CEREALS. 
 
 Cereals, and the gruels made from them, form a 
 very valuable diet list for the sick and for patients who 
 must have special food which is easily digested and at 
 the same time very nutritious. 
 
 Cereals are best cooked in vessels which have a 
 double boiler. The lower boiler, or compartment, should 
 be filled about half full of water, and if additional water 
 is required during the cooking it should always be boil- 
 ing hot. The same proportions of water and salt given 
 for vegetables should be used, adding the cereal gradually 
 and stirring to prevent burning. It should be steamed 
 until thoroughly cooked, and the water in the lower 
 compartment kept at a boiling point. As a general rule, 
 cereals are not given sufficient time to cook thoroughly. 
 We might mention oatmeal as an example. It has a 
 much better flavor and is more nutritious if it can be 
 slowly cooked for three hours or more. 
 
166 WOMAN'S SECRETS 
 
 Cereals should be just thin enough to pour when 
 taken out of the boiler, and when cool, should form a 
 jelly-like substance. Any cereals which are cooked in 
 the form of mush may be made into gruel by adding milk 
 or cream. For serving to the sick, gruels should be hot, 
 and neither too sweet nor too highly flavored. In some 
 cases where patients require more nutrition, the whipped 
 white of an egg may be added. Formulas for the most 
 common gruels will be given under ''Soft Diet." The 
 following time-table is an excellent one: 
 
 Cornmeal mush: Boil 10 minutes, then steam 3 hours, or more. 
 
 Oatmeal: Boil 10 minutes, then steam 1% hours or more. 
 
 Irish Oatmeal: Boil 10 minutes, then steam 8 hours or more. 
 
 Wheatena: Boil 10 minutes, then steam 1% hours or more. 
 
 Gluten Mush: Boil 30 minutes. 
 
 Steamed Rice: Boil for one hour. 
 
 Boiled Rice: Boil for 20 minutes or until soft. 
 
 MEATS. 
 
 Only tender cuts of meats should be used, especially 
 for the sick, and they should be pan-broiled or roasted. 
 They should be placed in a hot oven at a high tempera- 
 ture, so that the outer surface will be seared and hard- 
 ened to prevent the escape of nutrition ; then the tempera- 
 ture should be lowered and the meat allowed to cook in 
 its own juices. 
 
 Meats, to be properly boiled, should be placed in 
 boiling water and allowed to boil a few minutes (10 or 
 
DIET 167 
 
 15). Then the cooking should proceed slowly until the 
 meat is tender. The water should not be allowed to 
 bubble again. Tough meats treated in this manner will 
 become tender. 
 
 The time required for cooking meats, either roasted 
 in the oven or boiled, varies with the weight and quan- 
 tity. The roast which weighs from eight to twelve 
 pounds should be allowed twelve miuutes to the pound 
 and twelve minutes extra : if under eight pounds, ten 
 minutes to the pound and ten minutes extra ; if over 
 twelve pounds, fifteen minutes to the pound and fifteen 
 minutes extra. To boil meats weighing less than ten 
 pounds, allow twenty minutes to the pound and twenty 
 minutes extra. 
 
 The time required for broiling meats varies with 
 the thickness. The proper method of cooking a steak is 
 to have the frying-pan very hot, without grease. Cut 
 the steak to the desired size, trim all the fat off, and 
 place in the frying-pan. Sear the outer surface of one 
 side, then turn it over and treat the opposite side in the 
 same manner. Add a little salt and pepper and keep 
 turning it from one side to the other, cooking it as de- 
 sired, either rare, medium, or well done. For the sick, 
 rare steak contains the greatest nutrition and is most 
 easily digested. It should be placed on a hot plate, 
 
168 WOMAN'S SECRETS 
 
 buttered, and served while very hot. The average time 
 required to cook a steak an inch thick is five minutes. 
 
 FRUITS. 
 
 Fruits are considered of very little nutritive value 
 to the system. They are used mainly to give variety to 
 the diet and as flavoring agents. Some contain a little 
 starch, sugar, and a sort of fruit gelatine. As a rule, 
 they contain a large amount of water and some acid 
 which act as a stimulant to the kidneys and bowels. 
 The flavor and odor of fruits is due to their essential oils. 
 
 Some varieties of fruit are easily digesteel in the 
 raw state — among them oranges, lemons, grapes, and 
 peaches. Raw apples, pears, and bananas are less di- 
 gestible. Bananas obtained from the Ignited States are 
 claimed to be indigestible. 
 
 GENERAL RULES FOR PREPARING SOUPS. 
 
 In preparing soups and broths from meats and vege- 
 tables, the ingredients to be used should be cut in very 
 small pieces and put in cold water. Allow the mixture 
 to simmer slowly so that the nutrition of the meats and 
 vegetables will be dissolved and become a part of the 
 liquid. Cook in this way for several hours. Allow to 
 cool uncovered, and A^hen cold the fat can be easily 
 removed with a cloth that has been dipped in boiling 
 
DIET 169 
 
 water and then wrung dry. Fat can be removed from 
 hot broth by using a slice of bread to take up the grease. 
 Soups may be rendered more nutritious by adding 
 sago or some cereal, as barley or rice. They should al- 
 ways be served hot and seasoned to suit the taste. 
 
 LIQUID DIET. 
 
 The liquid form of diet is generally used before and 
 after operations and in the treatment of various diseases, 
 as fevers and cases where the patient's digestion is poor. 
 Milk is the ideal liquid food if it agrees with a patient. 
 It can be served in many ways, but as it is a gas pro- 
 ducer great caution should be used in prescribing it 
 before or after operative cases or in any case where gas 
 accumulates in the intestines. Milk may be taken hot 
 or cold. It may be flavored with tea, coffee, vanilla, or 
 diluted with lime-water or plain soda. It may also be 
 added to soups or broths as desired. Milk goes to make 
 up the essential part in the majority of licjuid diets. 
 The following are some of the common formulas for 
 liquid milk diet: 
 
 Milk-shake. — Take six ounces of fresh milk and add two tea- 
 spoonfuls of sugar and flavor with a teaspoonful of vanilla. Place 
 all in a wide-mouthed bottle with some cracked ice; cork se- 
 curely and shake well for one or two minutes. 
 
 An entire egg, or the albuminous portion only, may be added 
 previous to shaking. Wine may be substituted for the vanilla. 
 
170 WOMAN ^S SECRETS 
 
 Peptonized Milk. — This is best prepared with Fairchild's pep- 
 tonizing-tubes, each of which contains 5 grains (0.32) of extract 
 of pancreatin and 15 grains (0.97) of bicarbonate of soda. 
 
 Sterilized Milk. — This process consists in raising the tem- 
 perature of the milk to 210 degrees F. and keeping it at that 
 point for thirty minutes. A simple method of sterilizing milk 
 may be accomplished as follows: The sterile bottles are filled 
 with milk and plugged with cotton, which has been baked brown 
 in the oven. They are placed in a tin pail, which is then filled 
 with water up to the necks of the bottles and placed on the 
 range. The water is now boiled slowly for thirty minutes, when 
 the bottles are removed and placed in a refrigerator until needed. 
 
 Pasteurized Milk. — This process consists in raising the tem- 
 perature of the milk to 167 degrees F. and keeping it at that 
 point for half an hour. Put the milk in sterile bottles and 
 stopper with cotton batting which has been baked brown in 
 the oven. Place the bottles in a covered pail and pour in water 
 actually boiling at the time until they are immersed up to their 
 necks. Allow the bottles to remain in the pail for thirty min- 
 utes and then place them in a refrigerator until needed. This 
 raises the temperature of the milk to 167 degrees F. and main- 
 tains it at that point for half an hour while the water in the 
 pail is cooling. 
 
 Albumenized Milk. — Add the white of an egg to half a tum- 
 blerful of milk and mix it by passing the blade of a knife gently 
 to and fro in the tumbler. The mixture must not be beaten, as 
 violent agitation coagulates the albumen and destroys its digesti- 
 bility. 
 
 Milk Punch. — Take one cupful of milk, two tablespoonfuls 
 of whisky or brandy, one teaspoonful of sugar, and a nutmeg. 
 The milk is first sweetened with the sugar, the whisky or brandy 
 
DIET 171 
 
 added, and the whole thoroughly mixed by pouring from one 
 glass to another. Then grate a little nutmeg over the top. Tf 
 the ingredients are shaken in two tin cups, one of which fits 
 closely into the other, it makes a better and more attractive 
 punch. 
 
 Milk Porridge. — ]Mix a tablespoonful of flour with one-fourth 
 cupful of cold milk and stir into one-fourth cupful of hot milk; if 
 desired, add two raisins cut into quarters. Cook over boiling 
 water for one hour, and add one-quarter teaspoonful of salt just 
 before serving. 
 
 iVIiik Lemonade. — Take two ounces of sugar, five ounces of 
 boiled milk, one-half lemon, or two ounces of white wine, five 
 ounces of boiling water, and the rind of half a lemon. Pour the 
 boiling water over the peel and the sugar; allow it to cool, add 
 the milk, and then the lemon juice or wine. Strain after ten 
 minutes. 
 
 Milk-and-Cinnamon Drink. — Add a small amount of cinnamon 
 to the desired quantity of milk and boil it. Sweeten with sugar 
 and add brandy if desired. 
 
 Milk-and-Cereal Waters. — A most valuable method of pre- 
 paring milk for invalids with whom it disagrees is to mix equal 
 
 parts of milk and thoroughly cooked barley, rice, oatmeal or 
 
 arrowroot water and boil them together for ten minutes. This 
 
 may be served plain, or flavored by cooking with it a cut-up 
 
 raisin, a sprig of mace, or a piece of stick cinnamon, which 
 
 should be strained out before serving. 
 
 The various forms of liquid diet, such as gruel com- 
 binations of egg and milk and different broths, folloAvs: 
 
 Albumen Water No. 1. — Add the white of an egg to a tum- 
 blerful of ordinary lemonade and mix it by passing the blade 
 
172 WOMAN'S SECRETS 
 
 of a knife gently to and fro in the tumbler; the albumen coagu- 
 lates if the mixture is beaten. 
 
 Albumen Water No. 2. — Add the white of an egg to half a 
 tumbler of ice-water, mix as in No. 1 and season with a little 
 salt. 
 
 Egg-Nog. — Put the yolk of an egg in a tumbler and mix it 
 well with a teaspoonful of sugar. Then add a tablespoonful of 
 brandy, whisky, or sherry wine and fill the tumbler about two- 
 thirds full with ice-cold milk. Then mix thoroughly by pouring 
 from one glass to another or shaking in two tin cups, and strain 
 into a tall, thin glass. Beat the white of the egg to a stiff froth, 
 add a little sugar, and place it on the egg-nog. Then grate some 
 nutmeg over the top. 
 
 Egg Lemonade. — Thoroughly beat one egg with a tablespoon- 
 ful of sugar and then mix with a wineglassfui of water and the 
 juice of a small lemon. Pour the whole into a tumbler contain- 
 ing pounded ice and stir with a spoon. 
 
 Clam Broth. — Wash three large clams very thoroughly, using 
 a brush for the purpose. Place in a kettle with half a cupful of 
 cold water. Heat over the fire; as soon as the shells open the 
 broth is done. Strain through muslin, season, and serve. 
 
 Oyster Broth. — Select eight fresh oysters, chop them fine in 
 a chopping-tray, and turn them into a saucepan with a cup of 
 cold water; set the saucepan on the fire and let the water come 
 slowly to the boiling point, then simmer for five minutes; strain 
 the liquid into a bowl, flavor with half a saltspoonful of salt, and 
 serve hot. 
 
 Chicken Broth. — An old fowl will make a more nutritious and 
 tasty broth than a young chicken. After cleaning and removing 
 all that is not clear flesh, the fowl is cut into small pieces and 
 placed in a saucepan. It is then covered with cold water, al- 
 
DIET 173 
 
 lowed to simmer for two hours, and finally to boil slowly for 
 two hours more. It is then strained and placed aside to cool, 
 when the fat is carefully skimmed off. It is served hot and sea- 
 soned with pepper and salt. 
 
 Mutton Broth. — Take two pounds of mutton from the loin 
 or the lean part of the neck, remove skin and the fat, and cut it 
 into small pieces about two inches square. Put the meat and 
 the bones in a saucepan or a kettle, cover with a quart of cold 
 water, and add a tablespoonful of rice or pearl barley; then let 
 simmer gently for two hours, strain, and place aside to cool. 
 Skim the fat off carefully. It is served hot and seasoned with 
 pepper and salt. 
 
 Beef Broth. — Allow one pound of meat, or meat and bone, 
 to every quart of water. Wash the meat with a cloth in cold 
 water and cut it into small pieces. Put the meat and the bone 
 into a saucepan or a kettle with cold water and cook it at a 
 low temperature for two hours. Then boil for two hours and 
 strain through a coarse strainer. Skim as much fat as possible 
 from the surface with a spoon and then remove the remaining 
 small particles with a sheet of clean unsized paper drawn over 
 the surface. Season the broth with salt and pepper and serve hot. 
 
 Beef-tea. — Take a pound of lean beef, free from fat and 
 fibrous tissue, cut it inta small pieces and place them in a fruit 
 jar with a good cover. Add to it a pint of cold water and stand 
 in a moderately warm place for one hour; then let it simmer 
 gently for two hours more, then strain and season with salt and 
 pepper. 
 
 Oatmeal Water.— Put a cupful of oatmeal into two quarts 
 of boiled water and place it aside in a warm place (80 degrees 
 F.) for an hour and a half. Then strain it and put in a re- 
 frigerator. 
 
 7— 
 
174 WOMAN'S SECRETS 
 
 Barley Water. — Put three tablespoonfuls of barley (the grain) 
 into four cupfuls of cold water and place it aside for twelve 
 hours. Then boil it gently for an hour and a half and strain. 
 Season it with salt, sugar and lemon juice and serve hot. 
 
 Toast Water. — Toast three slices of bread until they are 
 very brown and then break them into small pieces. Put them 
 into a bowl with a pint of cold water and set aside to soak for 
 an hour. Strain through a napkin and squeeze out the liquid, 
 to which is added a little cream and sugar. It is served cold. 
 
 SOFT DIET. 
 
 When it is advisable, in any case of sickness, to sub- 
 stitute a more substantial diet depends entirely on the 
 individual case and the instructions of the physician, 
 but when such a change is ordered it is well to make it 
 gradual and continue part of the liquid diet, occasionally 
 substituting what is known as a soft diet. The patient's 
 appetite can be consulted and a selection made from the 
 following, which are the chief forms of soft diet : 
 
 Eggs: Poached (plain or on toast); scrambled; omelet; 
 soft-boiled. 
 
 Oysters: Raw; stewed; panned; roasted. 
 
 Bread: Stale bread; Graham bread toasted; croutons; sip- 
 pets; milk-toast; buttered water toast; cream toast; buttered 
 dry toast; plain crackers. 
 
 Soups: Chicken; cream-of-celery; cream-of-rice ; chicken 
 panada. 
 
 Potatoes: Baked; creamed. 
 
DIET 175 
 
 Sweetbreads: Creamed. 
 
 Mush: Oatmeal; farina; wheat germ; cracked wheat; hom- 
 iny; cornmeal. 
 
 Fruit: Oranges; grapes; baked apples; stewed prunes; 
 stewed apples. 
 
 Desserts: Wine jelly; soft or baked custard; junket or 
 slip; cream-of-rice pudding; peach foam; cornstarch pudding; 
 boiled rice with cream and sugar; vanilla ice-cream; rice cream; 
 orange jelly; chicken jelly; sponge cake and cream; barley 
 pudding. 
 
 Kecipes for most of the above forms of soft diet can 
 be found in a good cook-book. Following are a few 
 formulas for some of those articles of diet which may 
 be found of value : 
 
 Cream Toast. — Take one pint of milk, one tablespoonful of 
 flour, one tablespoonful of butter, one saltspoonful of salt, and 
 several slices of bread. Make a white sauce with the milk, flour, 
 and butter, according to the following directions: Pour the milk 
 into a saucepan and set it on the fire to heat. Put the butter 
 and the flour together in another saucepan; place it on the 
 fire and stir gently until the butter melts; let them bubble to- 
 gether for two or three minutes. Then pour in a little milk and 
 stir until the two are mixed; add a little more milk and stir again 
 until it bubbles, and so continue until all the milk is in. Now 
 add the salt and let it simmer slowly until the toast is prepared. 
 Soak the slices of toast thoroughly in salted boiling milk, ar- 
 range them in a covered dish and pour the cream over them. 
 
 Soft Custard. — Take one pint of milk, the yolks of two eggs, 
 two tablespoonfuls of sugar, and one saltspoonful of salt. Put 
 
176 WOMAN'S SECRETS 
 
 the milk into a saucepan and place it on the stove to boil. Beat 
 together the yolks of the eggs, the salt, and the sugar, and when 
 the milk just reaches the boiling point pour it in slowly, stirring 
 until all is well mixed. Then pour the mixture into the sauce- 
 pan at once and cook for three minutes, meanwhile stirring it 
 slowly. Then strain it into a cool dish and flavor it with a tea- 
 spoonful of vanilla or sherry wine. 
 
 Baked Cup Custard. — Beat one egg thoroughly; add a flat 
 teaspoonful of sugar, beat again and pour the mixture into a 
 breakfast coffee-cup. Then stir in sufficient milk to fill the cup 
 three-fourths full, place a teaspoonful of butter on the top, and 
 grate some nutmeg over the surface. Bake in a fairly hot oven 
 for thirty minutes and then put the cup in a refrigerator to cool. 
 
 Cream of Rice Pudding. — Take one quart of milk, one-half 
 a cupful of rice, two tablespoonfuls of sugar, and one saltspoon- 
 ful of salt. Put the milk, rice, sugar, and salt together in a pud- 
 ding dish, stir until the sugar is dissolved, then place the dish 
 in a pan of water and bake in a slow oven for three hours, cut- 
 ting into the crust which forms on the top once during this 
 tim.e. 
 
 Barley Pudding. — Take two tablespoonfuls of barley flour, 
 one tablespoonful of sugar, one saltspoonful of salt, one cupful 
 of boiling water, one-half of a cupful of rich milk, and the whites 
 of three eggs. IMix the flour, sugar, and salt in a saucepan with 
 a little cold water. When smooth and free from lumps, pour 
 in the boiling water, slowly stirring to keep it smooth, and then 
 set it on the fire to simmer for ten minutes, continuing the stir- 
 ring until it is thick. At the end of ten minutes put in the milk 
 and strain all into a clean saucepan through a coarse strainer, 
 to m.ake the consistency even. Beat the whites of the eggs until 
 light but not stiff, and gently stir them into the pudding, mak- 
 
DIET 177 
 
 ing it thoroughly smooth before returning it to the fire. Cook 
 for five minutes, stirring and folding the pudding lightly until 
 the egg is coagulated. Then put into a china pudding dish and 
 serve cold with cream. 
 
 REGULAR DIET. 
 
 If the patient continues to improve, the regular diet 
 is substituted for the soft diet, just as the soft diet was 
 substituted for the liquid. The change should be gradual 
 at first. The patient must not be allowed to eat pastry, 
 heavy puddings, hot bread or any kind of hot cakes, 
 highly seasoned or fried foods, crabs, lobsters, or over- 
 cooked meats like pork or sausages. All of these are 
 to be added gradually. Patient may be allowed meats 
 in small quantities, such as a small amount of rare roast 
 beef or a small tenderloin steak cooked as above men- 
 tioned ; various kinds of game, fish, vegetables and fruits, 
 and teas and coffees as desired. This constitutes what is 
 known as regular diet. 
 
CHAPTER XXI. 
 
 INDOOR EXERCISE. 
 
 That the average American girl is handicapped by 
 low vitality of the nervous system and a lack of muscular 
 development is generally conceded. The consequent pel- 
 vic troubles and complicated labors after marriage bring 
 us to realize the necessity of building up women physi- 
 cally as well as mentally. Too much schooling, music, 
 and indoor life, combined with a lack of proper physical 
 exercise, lay the foundation for man}^ kinds of female 
 trouble. That this truth is realized by the laity as well 
 as by the medical profession is proven by the fact that 
 in our present-day schools and colleges, and in many 
 homes as well, young girls are required to take up gym- 
 nasium work or out-of-door sports. Tennis, golf, basket- 
 ball, baseball, and horseback riding all help to develop 
 a perfect physique. We take it for granted that a great 
 many women are so situated that they cannot indulge 
 in such outdoor exercises; therefore, we will endeavor to 
 outline a series of indoor exercises as a substitute. A 
 normal condition of the pelvic organs depends largely 
 upon the circulation of those organs, the strength of the 
 abdominal muscles and the capacity of the lungs. If we 
 <can keep the supporting power of the abdomen in a 
 
INDOOR EXERCISE 179 
 
 normal condition and the uterus and ovaries and tubes 
 maintain their normal position, there is no tendency to 
 pelvic congestion. Upon the other hand, if the abdomi- 
 nal wall is relaxed as shown in Fig. 91, the diaphragm 
 is restricted by improper breathing, the pelvic organs 
 become displaced, and congestion results. Indoor exer- 
 cises, as they will be outlined, will have a tendency to 
 strengthen the abdominal and chest muscles, increase the 
 breathing capacity of the lungs, and develop a form 
 nearer to perfection, as illustrated in Fig. 92. 
 
 It is true that in early womanhood the muscles are 
 stronger and the abdomen does not protrude as it does 
 later in life, but perfect development of the abdominal 
 muscles in youth will prevent the abdomen from pro- 
 truding in later years. 
 
 Indoor exercises are most beneficial in the morning, 
 as at this time the circulation is sluggish. If a few min- 
 utes are devoted to active movements of the body, the 
 action of the heart and lungs is accelerated, the surface 
 of the skin soon becomes covered with a slight perspira- 
 tion and the regular routine of a cold sponge is followed 
 by rapid and healthy reaction. Certain rules must be 
 adhered to in taking indoor exercises and they must be 
 followed to a letter. 
 
 Rule 1. Have plenty of fresh air in the room, but 
 
180 
 
 WOMAN'S SECRETS 
 
 there should be no draft. Open the windows from the 
 top. 
 
 Rule 2. A w^oman should be so dressed that the 
 
 
 Fig, 91. — Showing- the incorrect position and a relaxed abdominal 
 wall. (Ashton's Practice of Gynecology.) 
 
 Fig. 92 — Showing the correct position, with the abdominal wall con- 
 tracted. (Ashton's Practice of Gynecology.) 
 
 waist, hips, chest and neck are perfectly free. Pajamas 
 
INDOOR EXERCISE 
 
 181 
 
 and stockings are all that are required, as shown in 
 Fig. 93. 
 
 Rule 3. These exercises should be taken when the 
 
 Fig. 93 — Proper costume for indoor exercises. Pajamas and stock- 
 ings. (Ashton's Practice of Gynecology.) 
 
 stomach and bladder are perfectly empty, — before break- 
 fast in the morning or just before retiring in the evening. 
 7a— 
 
182 WOMAN'S SECRETS 
 
 Rule 4. The time devoted to physical culture de- 
 pends upon the condition of the patient. From ten to 
 twenty minutes and longer if indicated. 
 
 Rule 5. A woman should not omit these exercises 
 because she feels tired or lazy. She should continue them 
 faithfully, as many cases require some time to obtain the 
 desired results. 
 
 Rule 6. A woman sliould coneeiiti-ate her attention 
 upon the exercises and the action of the muscles involved. 
 If she does not do this she cannot expect to get the best 
 results. 
 
 Rule 7. XevcM- exercise too i*ai)idly; take plenty of 
 time and after each course of exercise take a 1)rief 
 period of absolute muscular rest. If the breathing or 
 heart's action is hurried, the patient should lie down and 
 rest until they are normal. After each single exercise 
 she should rest for a moment in order that she does not 
 over-tire the muscles and thereby destroy their pro})er 
 action. 
 
 Rule 8. If the exercises are taken in the morning, 
 take a cold sponge or spray bath and dry the skin vigor- 
 ously with a coarse towel. If they are taken in the even- 
 ing, take a warm bath and get into bed at once. The 
 number and character of the movements should be regu- 
 lated according to the strength of the patient. The 
 
INDOOR EXERCISE 183 
 
 woman that is in normal health should go through with 
 the twelve different exercises every morning. 
 
 SPECIAL DIRECTIONS. 
 
 The best results cannot be attained unless the in- 
 structions given above are carried out and the rules 
 strictly adhered to. In all the exercises except Xo. 2 
 the abdominal muscles should be firmly contracted and 
 the lungs filled with air while the various movements 
 are being made. If this is not done the muscular strength 
 of the abdomen will not be restored and the breathing 
 capacity will not be increased. Remember that the good 
 eft'ects produced by the exercises will be greatly in- 
 creased if the patient breathes deeply and keeps the ab- 
 dominal muscles contracted when walking. At first she 
 may find this rather difiicult, but gradually as she con- 
 tinues the exercises and the muscles regain their tone, 
 the effect becomes less marked and in time the abdominal 
 walls contract naturally. 
 
 Between each movement the patient should rest ten 
 seconds, and during each exercise every movement should 
 be repeated from three to fixe times. 
 
 EXERCISE I. 
 
 Deep Breathing. — Place the hands on the sides of 
 the body, resting on the hips as illustrated in Fig. 94, 
 
184 
 
 WOMAN'S SECRETS 
 
 and draw in the breath slowly until the kings and chest 
 are fully expanded, the shoulders elevated, as seen in 
 
 Fig. 94 — Exercise No. 1, deep breathing. Before the exercise. (Ash- 
 ton's Practice of Gynecology.) 
 
 Pig. 95 — Exercise No. 1, deep breathing. The lungs filled with air. 
 (Ashton's Practice of Gynecology.) 
 
 Fig. 95. Hold the breath and contract the abdominal 
 muscles for a few seconds, then let the breath go out 
 
INDOOR EXERCISE 185 
 
 gradually until the air from the lungs is completely ex- 
 pelled. Keep the mouth closed and breathe through the 
 nose during the exercises. 
 
 EXERCISE 2. 
 
 Contracting the Abdominal Muscles. — Stand erect, 
 as in exercise 1, with the hands resting on the hips and 
 contract and relax the abdominal muscles. The dotted 
 line in Fig. 96 shows the movement of the abdominal 
 walls. 
 
 EXERCISE 3. 
 
 Bending the Body Backward. — Stand erect with 
 hands on the hips as in Fig. 94; take a full breath, con- 
 tract the abdominal muscles and bend the body slowly 
 backward, Fig. 97 : then gradually straighten up again 
 and expel the air from the lungs. 
 
 EXERCISE 4. 
 
 Bending the Body Forward. — Stand erect with arms 
 raised as high as possible above the head, as illustrated in 
 Fig. 98, the hands turned forward and the thumbs loosely 
 interlocked. Take a full breath, contract the abdominal 
 muscles and bend the body forward without bending the 
 knees until the tips of the fingers touch the floor. Return 
 to the erect position, raise the heels from the floor and 
 
186 
 
 WOMAN'S SECRETS 
 
 expel the air from the lungs as the arms are slowly low- 
 ered to the sides of the body. During this exercise the 
 
 ^Cr3; 
 
 Fig'. 96 — Exercise No. 2, contracting the abdominal muscles. The 
 dotted line shows the movements of the abdominal wall. (Ash- 
 ton's Practice of Gynecology.) 
 
 Fig. 97 — Exercise No. 3, bending the body backward. (Ashton's 
 Practice of Gynecology.) 
 
 arms and hands must be kept extended. The patient 
 may be unable to touch the floor with the tips of the 
 
INDOOK EXERCISE 187 
 
 fingers at first, but after practicing the exercises from 
 
 ?>xV 
 
 
 / F 
 
 Fig. 98 — Exercise No. 4, bending- the body forward. First position. 
 
 (Ashton's Practice of Gynecology.) 
 Fig. 99 — Exercise No. 4, bending the body forward. Second position. 
 
 (Ashton's Practice of Gynecology.) 
 
188 
 
 WOMAN'S SECRETS 
 
 time to time the spinal column becomes flexible and it 
 can be accomplished without difficulty, as shown in Fig. 99. 
 
 Fig. ]00 — Exercise No. 5, bending the body sidewnys and forward. 
 (Ashton's Practice of Gynecology.) 
 
 EXERCISE 5. 
 Bending the Body Sideways and Forward. — These 
 movements are similar to those of exercise 4, except that 
 the body is bent sideways in place of directly in front, 
 the tips of the fingers touching the floor first on one side 
 and then on the other as illustrated in Fig. 100. 
 
 EXERCISE 6. 
 Bending the Body Sideways. — Stand erect with the 
 hands on the hips as shown in Fig. 94; take a full breath, 
 contract the abdominal muscles and bend the body first to 
 
INDOOR EXERCISE 
 
 189 
 
 one side and then to the other as illustrated in Fig. 101. 
 Allow the head to follow the movements of the bodv. 
 
 Fig. 101 — Exercise Xo. 6, bending the body sideways. (Ashton's 
 
 Practice of Gynecology.) 
 Fig. 102 — Exercise No. 7, twisting the body. (Ashton's Practice of 
 
 Gynecology.) 
 
 EXERCISE 7. 
 
 Twisting the Body. — Stand erect with the hands rest- 
 ing on the hips, Fig. 91, heels close together, thighs rigid: 
 
190 
 
 WOMAN'S SECRETS 
 
 take a full breath, contract the abcloininal muscles and 
 twist the body several times from one side to the other 
 
 Fig. 103 — Exercise No. 8, squatting-. First position. (Ashton's 
 Practice of Gynecology.) 
 
 Fig. 104 — Exercise No. 8, squatting. Second position. (Ashton's 
 Practice of Gynecology.) 
 
 as far as possible, Fig. 102. Allow the head to follow the 
 movements of the body as in Exercise 6. 
 
INDOOR EXERCISE 
 
 191 
 
 EXERCISE 8. 
 Squatting. — Stand erect with hands on the hips, 
 heels separated about four inches as illustrated in Fig. 
 
 Fig. 105 — Exercise No. 9, raising the body. First position. (Ash- 
 ton's Practice of Gynecology.) 
 
 Fig. 106 — Exercise No. 9, raising the bodj'. Second position. (Ash- 
 ton's Practice of Gynecology.) 
 
 103; take a full breath, contract the abdominal muscles 
 and slowly assume a sitting or crouching position with 
 the buttocks close to the heels. Fig. 104; then straighten 
 up again and expel the air from the lungs. 
 
192 WOMAN'S SECRETS 
 
 EXERCISE 9. 
 
 Raising the Body. — Lie flat on the floor Avith the legs 
 extended, feet close together, hands resting on the hips 
 as illustrated in Feg. 105. Take a full breath, contract the 
 
 Fig-. 107 — Exercise No. 10, raising both legs at the same time. (Ash- 
 ton's Practice of Gynecology.) 
 
 abdominal muscles and raise the trunk slowly until a sit- 
 ting position is attained as shown in Fig. 106. Then 
 gradually let the body return to the floor and expel the 
 air from the lungs. During this exercise keep the spine 
 straight, the shoulders well back and the chest expanded. 
 
INDOOR EXERCISE 
 
 193 
 
 At first in order to assist the abdominal muscles and 
 steady the legs it would be a good idea to place the feet 
 under a bureau or couch. 
 
 Fig-. lOS^Exercise No. 10, raising the legs alternately. 
 Practice of Gynecology.) 
 
 (Ashton's 
 
 EXERCISE 10. 
 
 Raising the Legs. — Lie flat on the floor with the feet 
 close together, hands on the hips; take a full breath, 
 contract the abdominal muscles and slowly raise the legs 
 straight up to a right angle with the body, Fig. 107 ; then 
 return to the original position and expel the air from the 
 
194 
 
 WOMAN'S SECRETS 
 
 lungs. At first the patient may not be able to raise both 
 legs at the same time. If not, she should elevate first one 
 and then the other, Fig. 108, until the muscles become 
 strong enough to accomplish the regular movement. 
 
 EXERCISE 11. 
 
 The Dip Movement.— The i)atient should lie on the 
 stomach and chest with the ])alms of the hands flat on 
 the floor close to the sides of the body, toes somewhat 
 bent and the feet close together, Fig. 109. Take a full 
 breath, contract the abdominal nmscles and raise the 
 body on the hands and toes by slowly extending the arms, 
 Fig. 110; lower the l)ody to \ho oi-iginal position, Fig. 
 109, and expel the air from the lungs. 
 
 Fig-, 109 — Exercise No. 11, the dip movement. First position. (Asli- 
 ton's Practice of Gynecology.) 
 
 EXERCISE 12. 
 
 Raising- the Body Backwards. — Lie on the stomach 
 and chest, hands placed on the hips, legs extended, toes 
 out straight, and chest resting on the floor. Fig. 111. 
 
INDOOR EXERCISE 
 
 195 
 
 Take a full breath, contract the abdomiual muscles and 
 slowly raise the body and head as far as possible, Fif. 
 112. Lower the body to the original position. Fig. Ill, 
 and expel the air from the lungs. Rest as directed in 
 special instructions and repeat. 
 
 Fig". 110 — Exercise No. 11, the dip movement. Second position. 
 (Ashton's Practice of Gynecology.) 
 
 Fig-. Ill — Exercise No. 12, raising- the body backward. First position. 
 (Ashton's Practice of Gynecology.) 
 
 Fig. 112 — Exercise No. 12, raising the body backward. Second po- 
 sition. (Ashton's Practice of Gynecology.) 
 
CHAPTER XXII. 
 
 HOT APPLICATIONS. 
 
 The methods in which water may be applied to the 
 human body for the relief of various diseased conditions 
 are many. We will endeavor to give the technique of 
 applications in general with special attention to the dis- 
 
 Fig. 113 — A hot water bottle. It should be only partly filled with 
 hot warer. The air should be expelled before screwing in the 
 stopper. 
 
 eases of women. Hot applications applied in an exact 
 and scientific manner as tested by practical experience 
 are reliable and essential in assisting the physician to 
 relieve a great deal of the inflammation and suffering 
 that is peculiar to women. This fact is often lost sight 
 
HOT APPLICATIONS 
 
 197 
 
 of or neglected altogether. As a rule when hot applica- 
 tions are ordered by the physician, and such methods are 
 employed, little or no benefit is obtained. This is ofttimes 
 due to the fact that the physician is not familiar with 
 the subject of hydrotherapy and does not give the proper 
 
 Fig. 114 — Showing the electrotherm as used in place of the hot water 
 bottle. (This outfit can be purchased from H. 'W. Johns-Man- 
 ville Co., Seattle, Wash. 
 
 instructions to the patient or attendant, who applies the 
 heat in a crude way and gains no results. If we wish to 
 give medicine for a certain condition we must have a 
 knowledge of its action and know the results we expect 
 to get from its use. Therefore, it is essential for the 
 
198 WOMAN'S SECRETS 
 
 physician to thoroughly understand the action of heat 
 and carefully instruct his patients in the technique of its 
 application. 
 
 Effects of Heat. — We make use of hot applications 
 chiefly to relieve pain in chronic and acute conditions. 
 The effect will depend upon the degree of heat and the 
 duration of the application. Excessive heat causes the 
 blood vessels to contract and prevents the spreading of 
 the inflammation. A more moderate heat will cause the 
 small blood vessels to dilate and increase the blood sup- 
 ply to the parts. In that way it controls the inflammation 
 by absorbing tlie poison or fluid which may be in the 
 tissues and causing the disease, and carries it to other 
 parts of the body to be eliminated by the bowels and 
 kidneys. But no beneficial results can be expected if 
 the applications are applied in a haphazard or careless 
 manner. All details must be thoroughly carried out. 
 
 The Technique of Hot Applications. — In using hot 
 applications on the abdomen for various pelvic troubles 
 the heat must be applied continuously and kept at an 
 even temperature. This is best accomplished by the use 
 of the hot water bottle, Fig. 113, or the electrotherm, Fig. 
 114. The electrotherm is composed of wires protected by 
 asbestos. It is light and can be connected with an ordi- 
 nary electric light socket and is provided with a regulat- 
 ing switch so the heat can be increased or lessened as 
 desired. This method of applying heat has many advan- 
 
HOT APPLICATIONS 
 
 199 
 
200 WOMAN'S SECRETS 
 
 tages over the use of the hot water bottle and when dry 
 heat is ordered it has no equal. 
 
 When moist heat is applied locally as illustrated in 
 Fig. 115, the hot water bottle or electrotherm is placed 
 upon the moist dressing to keep it at an even tempera- 
 ture. This is the only way to secure the best results. 
 
 The articles required for turpentine stoops or moist 
 applications are illustrated in Fig. 116. A piece of flan- 
 nel should be folded two or three thicknesses so as to 
 cover the parts to which the heat is to be applied. It 
 should be wrung out of hot water by using the apparatus 
 
 illustrated in Fig. 116 and when quite dry should be 
 placed directly upon the skin and covered with a piece 
 of oiled silk. Over this is placed a piece of woolen 
 blanket or a Turkish towel and over all the hot water 
 bottle or electrotherm. The moist dressings should be 
 changed often enough to keep them both moist and hot. 
 Sometimes the turpentine is placed in the water, using 
 a teaspoonful to a quart of water, but a better plan is to 
 mix the turpentine with an equal amount of hot lard 
 and after heating the abdomen with the moist applica- 
 tions the hot turpentine and lard is rubbed in thor- 
 oughly. Then the moist applications are applied as di- 
 rected above. The temperature of the water should be as 
 hot as can be borne by the patient. Some can bear much 
 more heat than others, so there is no fixed temperature by 
 which one may be guided. 
 
f 
 
 HOT APPLICATIONS 201 
 
 THE HOT BLANKET PACK. 
 
 When the hot blanket pack is nsed the entire body 
 is enveloped in a woolen blanket wrung out of water as 
 hot as can be endured by the patient. In employing a 
 hot pack of this sort the technique is of value and must 
 be carefully followed if one wishes to obtain the best 
 results. It is necessary to have a bed with a good mat- 
 tress, a small pillow, four or five woolen blankets, a 
 rubber blanket, three or four common glass bottles or the 
 ordinary hot water bottles filled with hot water, and a 
 vessel similar to the ordinary washtub filled with water 
 at a temperature of one hundred and sixty degrees. 
 
 Method of Application. — The pillow is placed upon 
 the bed and the rubber sheet is spread out, the upper 
 edge just covering the pillow. All but one of the woolen 
 blankets are spread out smoothly one after another, the 
 upper part being even with the rubber sheet. Now one 
 woolen blanket is placed in the water and wrung out 
 as quickly as possible. This is best accomplished by two 
 persons taking hold of the ends of the blanket and twist- 
 ing it in opposite directions until it is as dry as it is 
 possible to make it. It is then spread out upon the dry 
 blanket, and the patient, having been previously dis- 
 robed, lies down in the center of the blanket and is 
 quickly enveloped in the following manner: 
 
 The arms are extended above the head and one side 
 of the blanket is drawn across the body and brought well 
 
202 
 
 WOMAN'S SECRETS 
 
HOT APPLICATIONS 203 
 
 1 — A small pan containing hot lard and turpentine, equal parts. 
 
 2— Ordinarj^ wash bowl. 
 
 3 — Pitcher filled with boiling hot water. 
 
 4— Oiled silk. 
 
 5 — Flannel cloth three or four layers thick. 
 
 6 — Turkish towel. 
 
 7 — A wringer made by taking a small towel and turning the 
 ends over, thereby making loops through which are thrust 
 two small sticks. (An old broom handle sawed the right 
 length answers the purpose very well.) The loops can be 
 sewed fast or pinned with safety pins. 
 
 8 — Showing how the flannel cloth is wrung by twisting the 
 sticks in opposite directions. When this method is em- 
 ployed the hands do not need to come in contact with the 
 hot water. The wringer is placed in the basin, the cloth 
 is laid upon it, and enough hot water is poured over it to 
 completely saturate the flannel. It is now^ raised out of the 
 water by the use of the sticks, wroung and applied as di- 
 rected. 
 
204 WOMAN'S SECRETS 
 
 up under the arms and tucked closely along the side of 
 the body. From the hips down the blanket is tucked 
 around the leg of the corresponding side, leaving the 
 other leg uncovered. Now the patient lowers the arms 
 and holds them close to the sides, and the other side of 
 the blanket is passed over and tucked in. A fold of thp 
 blanket is made to fit closely around the neck, but should 
 Qot be tight enough to interfere with the breathing or 
 circulation of the blood. The farther edge of the blanket 
 is drawn across the patient and tucked under the shoulder, 
 side and legs with great care. A fold is made over the 
 farther shoulder in like manner. The blanket is stretched 
 out by pulling each end and is doubled under at the foot. 
 The dry sheet is now brought over each side around the 
 shoulders and protects the face and neck from contact 
 with the hot blanket and at the same time keeps out the 
 air. Two or more of the dry blankets which were first 
 placed on the couch are folded over, and hot water bottles 
 are placed at the feet and along the sides of the body to 
 increase the heat. 
 
 Great care must be taken not to burn the patient, as 
 this accident often occurs. There are many conditions in 
 which this hot blanket pack is very useful and will give 
 good results, but it should be employed only when ordered 
 by the attending physician. After the desired eflfect is 
 obtained the wet blankets are quickly removed and the 
 patient dried and given an alcoholic rub. 
 
HOT APPLICATIONS 205 
 
 We have not mencionecl any special disease or con- 
 ditions in which hot applications are employed, as this 
 book is not written with the intention of teaching how to 
 diagnose and treat disease. Onr desire has been to in- 
 strnct yon in the manner of applying and reasons for hot 
 applications. Yonr physician will prescribe them if they 
 are necessary. 
 
CHAPTER XXIIl. 
 
 COLD APPLICATIONS. 
 
 Cold applications applied locally produce various 
 effects. If an ice-bag is placed over a large artery it 
 lessens the circulation; that is, an ice-bng applied to the 
 elbow would lessen the circulation in the hand. An ice- 
 bag placed over the heart will lessen the rate of blood 
 movement through the body if it is apj)li(Hl contiiniously 
 for several hours, but when only for m short time it in- 
 creases the hearths action. Therefore, a general cold ap- 
 plication is a powerful heart tonic. The effect of cold 
 upon the mucous membranes is about the same as when 
 applied to the skin. A quantity of cold water taken into 
 the stomach produces a greater effect than if applitul to 
 an equal area of skin. 
 
 Local ice-bags applied to the head or abdomen are 
 generally used to relieve acute troubles like the beginning 
 of appendicitis or pelvic inflammation. Or, they may be 
 used to relieve headaches and congestions due to high 
 fevers like typhoid. They are, however, rarely used in 
 chronic cases. 
 
 The most convenient way of applying ice is illus- 
 trated in Fig. 117, the ice-bag. The ice is broken up in 
 fine pieces and placed in the ice-bag, which should not 
 
COLD APPLICATIONS 207 
 
 be filled too full. The air should be expelled before the 
 cap is screwed on, so that it will fit closely to the body, as 
 in Fig. 118, which illustrates the correct and incorrect 
 method of application. The ice-bag is placed directly on 
 the skin and allowed to remain there an hour or more. 
 The head caps are so made that they fit the head closely. 
 Ice-bags are also used on the spine. They may be applied 
 several times daily, sometimes continuously for several 
 hours, but if the continuous method of application is em- 
 ployed, several layers of sheeting, towels or muslin should 
 
 Fig-. 117 — Showing- the ice-bag, 
 
 be placed between the skin and the ice-bag. When none 
 of the above appliances are at hand a convenient way is 
 to wrap the broken ice in a Turkish towel, which should 
 be pinned closely over it. If flattened out in the form 
 of a pad, it will conform itself to the part to which it is 
 applied. 
 
 Cold applications in the way of baths and cold packs 
 are used to reduce temperature. These are applied by 
 laying towels on or wrapping the patient in a sheet wrung 
 
208 
 
 WOMAN'S SECRETS 
 
 out of cold water. The sheet is applied in the same way 
 as the hot blanket pack. 
 
 When administered in the form of a sponge bath or 
 shower these applications are very stimulating and bring 
 about a reaction. They have a tendency to increase deep 
 breathing, stimulate the heart, increase the amount of 
 urine, harden the skin, and strengthen the system. The 
 duration should be very brief and immediately followed 
 by friction ami exercise. Some women cannot n^spond 
 
 Fig. 118 — Showing- the correct and incorrect method of applying tlie 
 ice-bag. (Ashton's Practice of Gynecology.) (a) Incorrect, 
 (b) Correct. It should lay flat on the surface of the body. 
 
 to the reaction quickly enough to obtain the desired 
 results, so care must be taken at the beginning of such a 
 treatment. 
 
 The cold foot bath, with the water at a temperature 
 of forty to fifty degrees, is emi)loyed for a few minutes, 
 sometimes with beneficial results. It seems to have a 
 tendencv to stimulate the circulation of the brain. It 
 
COLD APPLICATIONS 209 
 
 also has a decided influence in causing the contraction 
 of the blood vessels and muscles of the uterus and the 
 organs connected Avitli it. Some authorities claim that 
 the blood vessels of the liver, bladder, intestines and 
 stomach are made to contract at the same time. While 
 taking the bath the feet should be continually rubbed by 
 an attendant or the patient may rub one foot against 
 the other in order to keep up a continual friction. The 
 foot bath must not be used when there is chronic inflam- 
 mation of the pelvic organs, liver, kidneys or stomach. 
 In these cases the applications should be hot. 
 
 Cold compresses are applied in the same manner as 
 hot ; that is, the piece of flannel, similar to that used for 
 hot compresses, is soaked in ice water one or two minutes 
 and then wrung as dry as possible with the hands. They 
 should be changed every three or four minutes. These 
 cold compresses may be applied to any part of the body 
 for various acute conditions. When applied to extensive 
 parts, as the spine, the treatment should not be continued 
 until the skin becomes blue or numb. - In this case the 
 compress should be removed for a few minutes and the 
 surface rubbed with a piece of warm, dry flannel until 
 the skin becomes quite red. 
 
 When using the ice-bag or cold compress, it is well to 
 place a rather thick woolen cloth next to the body to 
 avoid excessive chilling of the skin. If the ice-bag is 
 
210 WOMAN'S SECRETS 
 
 applied directly to the skin great care must be exercised 
 to prevent the tissue from becoming injured, and the 
 application must be removed for a few minutes every half 
 hour and the parts rubbed so that reaction may occur. 
 The effect is better if the cloth laid upon the skin is 
 saturated with cold water and wruni»- as dry as possible 
 with the hands. 
 
 The ice-bag or compress may be used for all acute 
 Anflammations of the uterus, tubes, ovaries, bladder, or 
 for appendicitis. Compresses are appli(Hl immediately to 
 burns, especially scalds, as a means of giving grent relief. 
 In fact, ice may be applied to any part of the body wh(^re 
 a diseased or inflamed condition is just beginning to de- 
 velop. It is also employed in cases of hemorrhage, as 
 bleeding from the lungs. Placed over the stomach, the 
 ice-bag will often check vomiting. Bleeding from the 
 nose may be checked by cold compresses placed on the 
 face or on the upper part of the spine. Ice is also used 
 for throat trouble. 
 
 The action of ice or cold compresses depends upon 
 the place of application and the length of time that it is 
 kept on. They should be used only when ordered by a 
 physician, as prolonged applications will do serious injury 
 and lower the vitality of the tissue quite rapidly. Ice 
 water compresses will produce a more cooling effect than 
 the ice-bag. The very cold compress is valuable in many 
 
COLD APPLICATIONS 211 
 
 cases, but must be used with great •discretion. Heat may 
 be used in almost any instance, while, on the other hand, 
 the application of the ice-bag and ice compress will do 
 serious injury if not properly watched and attended to. 
 
CHAPTER XXIV. 
 
 BATHS. 
 
 Frequent bathing is necessary to keep the skin in a 
 normal and healthy condition. If women were thoughtful 
 about keeping the stomach and bowels in good condition 
 and the surface of the body clean there would be much 
 less sickness and ill health. To fully realize the beneficial 
 effects of proper bathing, however, the time of day, the 
 method employed, the position of the patient, the dura- 
 tion, the temperature and quantity of the Avater, the 
 proper exercise to bring on a reaction, the time devoted 
 to rest, and the temperature of the bathroom should 
 be considered and the following instructions i)roperly 
 carried out. Baths should not be given in a haphazard 
 or careless manner, as this many times does more harm 
 than good. 
 
 Time. — Warm or hot baths should be taken at night 
 just before retiring or in the afternoon, if the patient can 
 lie down afterwards. Stimulating baths like the cold 
 spray, shower, or sponge should be taken in the morning 
 immediately after rising. It is impossible to give a fixed 
 rule for every case, as conditions vary, so the patient 
 must select the best and most convenient time for treat- 
 ment. 
 
BATHS 213 
 
 Method Employed. — Owing to the cost of the modern 
 bathroom fixtures many are debarred from possessing 
 them and must therefore substitute such appliances as 
 they can afford. Often a home apparatus which will 
 give the desired results can be fixed up at a very nominal 
 cost. The elaborate needle and shower baths are an ex- 
 pensive luxury. The Home Needle Spray, which is 
 manufactured by the Holmes Manufacturing Company 
 of this city, is the cheapest and best apparatus of its kind 
 on the market. In giving the technique of the different 
 baths we will endeavor to make it plain and practical, so 
 that no woman need be deprived of the benefits of proper 
 bathing. 
 
 The Position of the Patient depends upon the kind 
 of bath, the method employed, and the results desired. 
 There are three positions, standing, lying and sitting, 
 each of which will be duly considered. 
 
 The Temperature of the Water is one of the most 
 important factors, and too much attention cannot be given 
 it. As previously mentioned, heat or cold may do great 
 harm if applied in a haphazard way. In every case it 
 should be decided whether a quick or slow stimulation 
 is required, whether one wishes to relax the tissue or 
 relieve pain, and the temperature of the Avater should be 
 regulated accordingly. A thermometer should always 
 be used to take the temperature. Otherwise the action 
 8a— 
 
214 WOMAN'S SECRETS 
 
 of the heat or cold cannot be regulated, and consequently 
 no beneficial results will follow. The ordinary bath ther- 
 mometer should be employed and the patient should 
 know how to use it. The temperature of the cold bath 
 should be from fifty to seventy-five degrees; the tepid 
 bath, seventy-five to ninety-five ; the Avarm bath, ninety- 
 five to one hundred and four; the hot bath, one hundred 
 and four to one hundred and twenty. 
 
 The Duration of the Bath depends upon the desired 
 results. The cold bath, in the form of a shower, plunge, 
 or sponge of brief duration, is stimulating in its action 
 upon the general system because the reaction is rapid 
 and there is no shock. If it were prolonged the patient 
 would be chilled and serious results would follow. The 
 hot bath is prolonged for some time in order to cause 
 permanent contractions of the blood vessels and the 
 necessary relaxation of the tissue. 
 
 Exercise. — After a cold bath in any form there should 
 be quick, vigorous rubbing of the skin with a Turkish 
 towel to bring the blood to the surface. This should not 
 be neglected, because if there is no reaction the brief cold 
 application will be very depressing and lower the vitality. 
 When hot baths or local hot applications are employed 
 this friction is not necessary. 
 
 Rest. — The patient should rest after taking a warm 
 
BATHS 215 
 
 bath. Consequently it should be taken just before retir- 
 ing'. However, the condition of the patient has much 
 to do with the amount of rest required. Some patients 
 require more rest than others, and some do not care to 
 lie down at all after taking a bath in the afternoon. 
 Each patient must be a law unto herself in regard to this, 
 but it is best that a warm or hot bath be followed by a 
 period of rest. This is not so important after a cold bath. 
 Temperature of the Room. — The bath should be taken 
 in a room that is quite warm. The temperature should 
 be ascertained by a thermometer and should be from 
 seventy-five to eighty degrees. 
 
 The Kinds of Baths. — It is very difficult to go into 
 sufficient detail in this small volume to give a clear con- 
 ception of so large a subject and the good results that 
 can be obtained by the proper baths. The attending phy- 
 sician will suggest the kind of bath best suited to the 
 patient. We will discuss the technicpie of the different 
 methods under separate headings. 
 
 The Full Bath is one in whieli the entire body is 
 covered with water. It may be any temperature, but 
 the hot bath at one hundred and four degrees is generally 
 used. The patient should remain in the water from ten 
 to twenty minutes. It should be taken in the evening, as 
 it has a verv sedative effect, causes a general relaxation 
 
216 
 
 WOMAN'S SECRETS 
 
 and produces sleep and rest. After the skin has been 
 thoroughly dried with a soft towel which will not cause 
 much friction, the patient should go to bed immediately, 
 no exercise being necessary. Special conditions might 
 exist in which it would be necessary to prolong the bath, 
 but this should be done only under the directions of the 
 attending physician. 
 
 Fig. 119 — Showing the half bath. The tub is partly filled with water 
 so that when the patient lies clown in it only half of the body 
 is covered. (Ashton's Practice of Gynecology.) 
 
 A full cold bath is employed in some cases, but as a 
 general rule we do not recommend it. The cold spray 
 which is illustrated in Fig. 122 is more beneficial. 
 
 A full tepid bath at seventy-five to ninety-five de- 
 grees may be taken in the afternoon, the duration being 
 but a few minutes. The skin should be dried by friction 
 with a coarse towel, and as a certain amount of exercise 
 is necessary to bring about a reaction, we would advise 
 following out the instructions given in Chapter XXI, 
 INDOOK EXERCISE. 
 
BATHS 
 
 217 
 
 The Half Bath may also be taken in the afternoon, 
 so that the patient may have an opportunity to rest before 
 dinner, exercise being unnecessary. The tub is partly 
 filled with water so that when the patient lies down the 
 body is only about half covered, Fig. 119. 
 
 It is well to have an attendant when taking this bath, 
 so that the part of the body that is not covered may be 
 
 Fig. 120 — Showing- the adjustable spray which may be attached to 
 any batlitub. (Ashton's Practice of Gynecology.) 
 
 vigorously rubbed, especially over the chest and abdomen. 
 A patient can do this herself, but when it is possible 
 to afford a nurse it is much better to have one. The 
 temperature of this bath should be from seventy to eighty 
 degrees. The duration should be from ten to fifteen 
 minutes. The patient then sits up in the tub and the 
 
218 WOMAN'S SECRETS 
 
 spine and shoulders should be sponged with water a little 
 bit colder than the bath water. A sponge should be 
 used. The sponge should last only a few seconds and 
 be followed by vigorous friction with a coarse towel, 
 after which the patient should be wrapped warmly and 
 lie down half an hour before dressing. A woman who is 
 in perfect health and of the average physique can take 
 this bath without an attendant and obtain very good 
 results. Every part of the body can be rubbed by grasp- 
 ing an end of the towel in each hand and drawing it 
 across the back or any part of the body. 
 
 The Sponge Bath, like the full bath, may be given 
 at several different degrees of temperature. The tech- 
 nique is practically the same. It may be given in bed 
 or in a standing position, and consists of applying water 
 to the surface of the body by means of a wet sponge or 
 towel. The cold sponge is best given in the morning and 
 after exercising. Here again the cold spray is recom- 
 mended to the reader rather than the cold sponge. Ofttimes 
 a sponge bath is given alternately; that is, first cold and 
 then warm. The body is then dried and vigorous friction 
 with a coarse towel is applied. It is best for the patient 
 to stand in the tub and have the basins filled with water 
 of the desired temperature, the one about seventy-five 
 and the other about one hundred and twenty. The cold 
 sponge is often used to reduce temperature in fevers. 
 
BATHS 219 
 
 When the warm sponge bath is given, vigorous friction 
 is not necessary. 
 
 When the sponge bath is given in bed a rubber sheet 
 is placed under the patient, the clothes removed and a 
 woolen blanket thrown over the body. It is best to use 
 fifty per cent, each of alcohol and tepid water at eighty 
 degrees. The nurse then rapidly sponges the body, face, 
 neck and extremities. The skin is dried with a soft 
 towel and the clothes replaced. The sponge should be 
 dipped in the basin frequently and not sciueezed too dry. 
 To secure the best results plenty of water should be 
 applied to the skin. The body should be thoroughly pro- 
 tected with warm blankets and only that part that is 
 being sponged exposed. If the entire body were exposed 
 there would be danger of the patient taking cold from 
 the uneciual chilling. The sponge bath has a tonic and 
 stimulating effect. When it is employed to control the 
 temperature the bath is generally used as cold as can be 
 borne by the patient, and in that case it recjuires more 
 time than when simply used as a tonic. The sponge 
 bath for fever is often given in the tepid temperature; 
 that is, from seventy-five to ninety-five degrees. 
 
 The Spray Bath is one of the most useful methods of 
 giving tonic effect. Certain apparatus is necessary that 
 the water may be thrown on the surface of the body in 
 fine divided streams. Shower and needle baths are gen- 
 
220 
 
 WOMAN'S SECRETS 
 
 erally found in houses of the wealthy, but for those who 
 cannot afford the expensive apparatus there are a num- 
 ber of cheaper outfits that answer every purpose. An 
 
 Fig. 121 — Showing a spray apparatus with rubber sheet attached. 
 (Ashton's Practice of Gynecology.) 
 
 adjustable spray, as illustrated in Pig. 120, is attached to 
 the bathtub and the hot and cold water mixed as desired. 
 A spray apparatus with a rubber sheet attached, as illus- 
 
BATHS 
 
 221 
 
 ^jgSiS^^=^ 
 
 1 
 
 Fig. 122 — This illustrates the Home Needle Spray attached to the 
 bathtub. It gives a very fine spray and is under perfect con- 
 trol so that the temperature of the water can be perfectly regu- 
 lated. 
 
222 WOMAN'S SECRETS 
 
 trated in Fig. 121, is inexpensive and very effective. 
 The Home Needle Spray^ Avhich is illustrated in Fig. 122, 
 is the cheapest and best apparatus of the kind that we 
 are familiar with. It may easily be attached to any bath- 
 tub. 
 
 In houses which have no running Avater the spray 
 can be administered as illustrated in Fig. 123. In this 
 case the patient stands in an ordinary washtub and the 
 rubber bag or reservoir is filled with water of the proper 
 temperature and suspended fi'om the wall the same as 
 the douche bag. The spray is then directed against the 
 surface of the body as desired. The value of the batli 
 depends upon the force and temperature of the water. 
 For this reason we are mucli in favor of the Home Needle 
 Spray, Fig. 122, as it can be perfectly controlled. The 
 height of the bag Avill diminish or increase the force as 
 desired. 
 
 The spray is of a tonic nature and should be taken 
 on getting out of bed in the morning. The temperature 
 of the water should be from fifty to eighty degrees. No 
 other bath is so invigorating and from no other can such 
 splendid results be obtained. It may be given in all 
 temperatures of water, and it is useful to both the sick 
 and well, the strong and weak, and to all who would 
 gain and retain perfect health. It stimulates the circu- 
 lation, sends the blood bounding through the veins and 
 
BATHS 
 
 223 
 
 freshens and stimulates the entire system. Women who 
 are inclined to be a little sluggish and do not feel extra 
 
 Fig-. 123 — Showing- how the fountain syringe and sprinkler are usea 
 as a substitute for the spray bath when the home is not sup- 
 plied with running- water. (Ashton's Practice of Gynecology.) 
 
 well will derive great benefit from the use of the spray 
 bath every morning. Figs. 121 and 123 are more in the 
 
224 WOMAN'S SECRETS 
 
 order of a shower than a spray. AVhen using the sub- 
 stitute for the spray as illustrated in Fig. 123, it is 
 necessary that a nozzle like the one in Fig. 124 be at- 
 tached to the fountain syringe and the water prepared 
 in the basin and then poured into the bag. The entire 
 body should be treated with the spray and the duration 
 should not be more than a few seconds. It must be fol- 
 
 Fig-. 124 — The adjustable spray which should be used in connection 
 with the fountain syringe. (Ashton's Practice of Gynecology.) 
 
 lowed by vigorous friction with a coarse towel. When 
 using the Home Needle Spray the patient should turn 
 around three or four times, w^hicli will be sufficient when 
 using the cold spray. This is much better than a cold 
 sponge or a cold full bath. The spray can be used at 
 any temperature that is desired, from hot to cold or vice 
 versa. It should last only a minute or so, alternating 
 
BATHS 
 
 225 
 
 first from cold to hot. Any temperature of the spray 
 should be followed b}^ a vigorous rubbing with a coarse 
 towel. 
 
 The Sitz Bath. — When a woman desires to take a 
 sitz bath she must have a special form of tub, as illus- 
 trated in Fig. 125. The water should be on a level with 
 the umbilicus when the patient is sitting in the tub, and 
 
 Fig-. 125 — Sitz bath tub — Ashton Practice of Gynecology. 
 
 she should have a blanket thrown around her to protect 
 her from exposure. The sitz bath is stimulating to the 
 pelvic and abdominal organs if it is taken at a low 
 temperature, and it is a pain reliever when taken hot. 
 The cold sitz bath is generally taken in the afternoon, 
 the duration being from ten to twentv minutes. The 
 
226 
 
 WOMAN'S SECRETS 
 
 patient should be quickly dried and allowed to rest for 
 an hour before being dressed. The best time to take 
 the hot sitz bath is just before going to bed, as there is 
 no need for any exercise after the hot bath. The tempera- 
 
 Fig-. 126 — This shows the cabinet and apparatus necessary for tak- 
 ing a Turkisli bath at liome. (Ashton's Practice of Gynecology.) 
 
 ture should be from one hundred and four to one hun- 
 dred and twenty and the bath should last half an hour, 
 as the object is to relieve congestion or pain in the pelvis. 
 The patient should be quickly dried and placed in bed, 
 
BATHS 
 
 227 
 
 no nibbing being reqnired in this case. Tlie sitz bath 
 is also employed in cases of painful menstruation. 
 
 The Turkish Bath.— In order to take a Turkish bath 
 certain paraphernalia is necessary if one wishes to take 
 the bath at home instead of at the regular Turkish-bath 
 houses. But few are so equipped that ladies can attend, 
 so it is best to have an outfit that can be used at home. 
 
 Fig-. 12 7 — The style of gas stove used for heating- the Turkish bath 
 cabinet. (Ashton's Practice of Gynecology.) 
 
 Fig. 126 illustrates a cabinet that is especially built for 
 this purpose. These cabinets are very serviceable and 
 answer every purpose. Fig. 127 shows the style of gas 
 stove that supplies the heat. The alcohol lamps are 
 somewhat dangerous and should be handled with great 
 care. Those whose houses are supplied with gas shoukl 
 purchase one of these small gas stoves, which are very 
 cheap, and use it in place of the alcohol lamp. A wooden 
 
228 
 
 WOMAN'S SECRETS 
 
 kitchen chair should be placed in the cabinet, a pad of 
 asbestos placed under the chair, and the stove connected 
 with the gas burner should be placed upon the pad. 
 Another round asbestos pad is placed on the stove. A 
 
 Fig. 128 — Illustrating method of giving a sheet bath. (Ashton's 
 Practice of Gynecology.) 
 
 towel is now folded on the chair and another on the 
 floor for the feet to rest on. In many cases it is well to 
 have a basin filled with hot water in which to place the 
 feet while taking the sweat. The amount of heat can be 
 
BATHS 229 
 
 regulated when the gas stove is used, which is not the 
 case with an alcohol lamp. The cabinet should be heated 
 ten or fifteen minutes before getting in. It is well to drink 
 two or three glasses of water before entering the cabinet. 
 Kemain in fifteen to twenty minutes. Place a towel 
 Avhicli has been wrung out of cold water around the neck 
 to prevent the hot air from striking the face. Imme- 
 diately after getting out of the cabinet take a spray bath 
 at a temperature of one hundred to one hundred and 
 twenty degrees. This should last only a minute or two. 
 Then change to a cold spray for a few seconds. Dry 
 the skin with a coarse towel and lie down and rest for 
 an hour, or go to bed if the bath is taken at bedtime, 
 which is best. Xo exercise is necessar}^ After the 
 patient is in the cabinet a few minutes the perspiration 
 will appear and in a short time be very general. The 
 duration of the bath varies in each case. Soine women 
 require a longer time than others to produce free perspira- 
 tion, but if the patient is strong enough to stand the 
 heat it should be continued until the sweating is very 
 profuse. Yet, if at any time there is a feeling of fullness, 
 throbbing in the head, palpitation of the heart, or a faint 
 Eeeling, the patient should get out of the cabinet at once. 
 A cold cloth applied to the head will ofttimes prevent 
 such unfavorable symptoms and make the patient feel 
 quite comfortable. The frequency of the Turkish bath 
 
230 WOMAN'S SECRETS 
 
 depends largely upon the condition of the patient, but 
 the average woman should take one once a month. It is 
 a good eliminator of poisons from the systems and keeps 
 the pores in good condition. 
 
 The Sheet Bath is given as illustrated in Fig. 128, 
 and is used as a stimulant and tonic. Women avIio are 
 physically and mentally exhausted Avill receive great 
 benefit from this sort of a bath, which should be given 
 in the following manner: A washtub or bathtub should 
 contain a sufficient amount of water at a temperature of 
 fifty to seventy-five degrees. A muslin sheet ami towel 
 are immersed in the water. The patient stands beside the 
 tub and the nurse takes the shei^t out of the water and 
 quickly wrings it dry and Avraps it completely around 
 the patient's body. She then wrings the water ont of the 
 towel and rapidly slaps the entire surface of the body 
 with it. The strokes should be (piick and shai-p and kept 
 up two or three miinites. Tlu^ sheet is then removed, the 
 skin dried with a coarse towel, and the patient wrapped 
 in a woolen blanket and alloweil to rest for an hour. 
 This kind -of bath should be foUowcMl l)y a general 
 massage if it is possible to afford it. 
 
I 
 
 I 
 
 CHAPTER XXV. 
 
 WATER DRINKING. 
 
 The subject of water drinking is neglected both by 
 the laity and physician. The importance of water in the 
 treatment of diseases and as a part of the diet is fre- 
 quently underestimated. Patients are seldom instructed 
 as to the amount of water to drink, its temperature and 
 its effect if taken with the meals or on an empty stomach. 
 
 AVater flushes the entire system by increasing the 
 quantity of the urine, stimulates the action of the bowels, 
 increases perspiration, assists in throwing oft' impurities 
 from the lungs and puts them in a condition to more 
 readily receive oxygen. As a result of these impressions 
 upon the organs of the body in the process of elimina- 
 tion and throwing oft' waste matter in the tissues, lime 
 and other salts are removed. These results depend not 
 only on the quantity and quality of the water (important 
 factors), but upon its temperature and time when taken 
 into the stomach. The general effect of heat and cold 
 are identically the same whether applied externally or 
 internally. Thus, we find that when we drink hot or cold 
 water the eff'ect is exactly the same as if cold or heat 
 were applied to the skin. 
 
232 WOMAN'S SECRETS 
 
 QUALITY. 
 
 All drinking water should be pure and should con- 
 tain no infection in the form of germs or mineral salts. 
 Many fevers result from the use of impure water. The 
 fact that water has been boiled and that it is free from 
 material of an infectious nature does not make it of a 
 high quality. 
 
 The purer the water the greater its absorbing power, 
 and consequently it carries off a hirger amount of im- 
 purities through the excretory organs. Hard water, be- 
 cause of its limited absorbing qualities, is of little use. 
 
 Contrary to the general idea, all the mineral salts 
 nesessary to the preservation of health are contained in 
 food substances. The amount of harm done by mineral 
 matter is water is incalculable. Lime deposits are formed 
 in the tissues. The excretory organs are locked up, so 
 to speak, because the liver and kidneys cannot 2)erform 
 their functions properly. 
 
 Many persons deceive themselves by the use of a 
 filter. This custom cannot be too strongly condemned. 
 Mineral salts are held in the solution, and, too, if the 
 filter is not kept perfectly clean it becomes a source of 
 germ infection. 
 
 The ideal drinking water is the distilled water. It 
 is absolutely pure, does not contain any poison, is free 
 from all mineral matter and has a great power of dis- 
 
WATER DRINKING 233 
 
 solving and absorbing waste matter with which it comes 
 in contact in circulating through the system. It has 
 been put to a practical test. It has been used by men 
 of the American army and navy for years and the sick 
 rate has decreased to a marked degree. 
 
 Everyone should distill the water for his own use at 
 a nominal cost, and in the end it would be much cheaper 
 than being a victim of any of the diseases that come from 
 improper care of the body. There are water distillers 
 on the market that are very simple in construction and 
 can be obtained at a nominal cost. If it is impossible 
 to obtain distilled water, use one as free as possible from 
 germ infection and mineral salts. Some of the natural 
 waters that are on the market contain a very small 
 amount of earthv matter. 
 
 QUANTITY. 
 
 The average individual in normal health should drink 
 at least one cjuart of water each day. The system will 
 often demand twice the amount. Every woman should 
 practice and form the habit of drinking a glass of water 
 immediately upon getting out of bed in the morning and 
 just before retiring at night. If it is taken into the. 
 stomach in the morning it washes out the mucous, stimu- 
 lates the action of the intestines and improves the appe- 
 
234 WOMAN'S SECRETS 
 
 tite and general tone of the entire system. It is best not 
 to take too much liquid with the meals, because a large 
 amount dilutes the digestive fluid. If taken cold, as 
 ice water, it will have a tendency to cause indigestion. 
 It is important, therefore, that the largest amount of 
 water taken during the day should be when the stomach 
 is empty. A period of two hours after meals should be 
 allowed before much Avater is taken into the stomach. 
 It may be taken a short time before meals, as it rapidly 
 absorbs and does not mix Avith the food that is taken 
 shortly afterwards. The quantity and temperature of 
 the water, as well as the time of administration, nuist be 
 regulatinl l)y the condition and ])ecn)iarities of the case. 
 When hot water is used to aid <ligesti()n it must be taken 
 one hour before meals aiul as hot as can be ])()rne. We 
 have learned in a ])revi()us cha])tei' that one of the causes 
 of constipation, Avith its evil effects, is the lack of the 
 proper amount of watei-. Therefore, w(^ advise you to 
 drink a sufficient amount of Avater to carry off the Avaste 
 matter. Keep the internal organs as Avell as the external 
 surface clean and regard Avater drinking of as much im- 
 portance as the bath. 
 
CHAPTER XXVI. 
 
 THE WOULD-BE DOCTOR. 
 
 The term doctor is frequently misapplied. It is ap- 
 propriated by persons who have given a slight amount 
 of study to any one of the numerous branches of medi- 
 cine. The real physician must have become master of 
 the whole field of the science of the treatment of disease. 
 A close student and a keen observer, he must have the 
 facilities to put his knowledge to practical use. By no 
 means are these qualities required from the number who 
 administer to the ills of the unfortunate today. 
 
 Xew methods of treating diseases spring up like 
 mushrooms. The practitioner may be a regular or an 
 eclectic, a homeopath or an osteopath, a magnetic healer 
 or a chiropractor. Whatever the branch of medicine, 
 there may be found in it illiterate persons or those of a 
 very limited education. 
 
 Every doctor, regardless of the school he folloAvs, 
 should be frank and honest with his patients. If he is 
 not sure of his diagnosis or does not know what is the 
 matter with his patient he should be man enough to 
 acknowledge the fact. If honesty were only practiced 
 it would eliminate much of the prejudice Avhicli exists 
 among the laity against the profession today. 
 
236 WOMAN'S SECRETS 
 
 Medicine and surgery have made a wonderful ad- 
 vancement in the last few years. The advancement has 
 not come from the quack. As we realize the greatness of 
 the profession, we cannot fail to recognize its abuse. 
 The laity should learn to distinguish between the real 
 doctor and the pretender. We are not pleading for any 
 special line of treatment, but we do deniMiul honest and 
 conscientious treatment. Then the laity Avill appreciate 
 the efforts that are being made for their benefit. They 
 would not be so foolish as to allow snggestive thera- 
 peutics (we should say Christian Science) in the treat- 
 ment of diphtheria instead of the prompt use of antitoxin. 
 
 There is another class who consider themselves as 
 doctors that women shonld be cantions about (Muploying. 
 They are women who consider themselves midwives and 
 thoroughly competent to take care of confinement cases. 
 Confinement cases are extremely difficult to manage at 
 the present time. Midwives often attempt to handle 
 complicated cases, with the result that the patient's health 
 is permanently injured. Several times we have been 
 called in consultation after the patient had been in labor 
 for some time, often as long as from thirty-six to forty- 
 eight hours. In these cases some abnormal condition 
 exists which a midwife is not able to diagnose, nor 
 would she be able to manage it. Nine times out of ten 
 her education is very limited — as nothing compared with 
 
THE WOULD-BE DOCTOR 237 
 
 that of the trained nurse. If complications are present 
 or arise during a confinement, the midwife is not master 
 of the situation and the patient must suffer the conse- 
 quences. The most skilled attention should be received 
 by confiaiement cases. 
 
 A frequently met variety of would-be doctor are 
 the busybodies who think they have a great knowledge 
 of medicine and the ability to cure disease. They inter- 
 fere with the commands of physicians and dictate to 
 patients a proper treatment of the case, telling them 
 that '^such and such a treatment cured so-and-so and 
 her sickness was just like yours." Were the symptoms 
 of a directly contrasting nature the treatment as pre- 
 scribed by this 'Svould-be doctor" would be the same. 
 No sickness that afflicts the human race is too compli- 
 cated for the ^^best cure" given by them. Often when the 
 family physician is treating a patient the friends or rela- 
 tions will ask, 'Svhy don't they do this or that? Why 
 don't they get this doctor or that doctor?" In all proba- 
 bility the family have a physician employed who is pre- 
 scribing the very best treatment that can be given. Such 
 interference on the part of the 'Uaiowing individual" 
 and friend of the family is detrimental to both the patient 
 and doctor. The patient becomes dissatisfied with the 
 treatment, feels discouraged, and is gradually made worse 
 by such meddlesome individuals. 
 9— 
 
238 WOMAN'S SECRETS 
 
 To conclude. A college education and a four years' 
 course in a first-class medical school is a necessary prep- 
 aration for the practitioner. Competence should be the 
 unfailing qualification of the healer of human ills. Too 
 serious matters are life and death to be tampered with 
 by dishonest or incapable persons. Put the Aveight of 
 responsibility upon shoulders able to carry it. Above 
 all, do not meddle — in this case at least *' silence is 
 golden.'' 
 
CHAPTER XXVII. 
 
 WHEN TO CONSULT AND PAY A PHYSICIAN. 
 
 Sickness is the common lot of humanity. No class 
 or race is exempt. All women at some period of their 
 existence suffer from some malady peculiar to women^ 
 and it is safe to say that no matter how wise the world 
 may grow or what perfection science may reach, the 
 sick, like the poor, will be always with us. 
 
 The old saying, '^A little neglect may breed great 
 mischief," applies with greater force in diseases of women 
 than anyivhere else, for a neglected ovarian or uterine 
 trouble may undermine the system and lay the founda- 
 tion for a serious or chronic disease. It seems the height 
 of folly for a woman to wait months or years until the 
 disease is well established before consulting a physician, 
 and then expect to be cured with a few doses of medicine 
 and an occasional office treatment; yet this is exactly 
 what most women clo. Xo one can tell what will be the 
 termination of an attack of inflammation of the pelvic 
 organs. A seemingly slight ovarian trouble or a dis- 
 placement of the uterus, if neglected, may cause the parts 
 to become so diseased that if it does not end fatally it 
 may result in a protracted attack of sickness often re- 
 quiring a serious surgical operation which may leave the 
 
240 WOMAN'S SECRETS 
 
 patient in a debilitated condition, with the health perma- 
 nently impaired. 
 
 The lesson taught by these cases is to consult a com- 
 petent physician at the earliest possible moment. Most 
 women hesitate over the expense, but a little reflection 
 would show them their folly and lower expense. A phy- 
 sician consulted early in the case is able to restore the 
 parts to their normal condition in a very short time, and 
 the expense is nominal compared to that of neglected 
 cases which require hospital care and the inevitable oper- 
 ation. This is all additional expense, to say nothing 
 of the danger, suffering and anxiety. Many women wiio 
 are ill will say, '^Oh, I have taken treatments from doc- 
 tors, but it never did me any good.'' Well, did you 
 follow his instructions, or did you stop taking treatments 
 as soon as you began to feel a little better? Then in a 
 short time w^hen you felt as miserable as you did at first, 
 say unkind things about physician number one, and go 
 to number two? Such a patient goes the rounds and 
 finally both patient and physician become disgusted. 
 The patient is not well, and the chances are the doctor 
 has not been paid for his services. The way to obtain 
 results in such cases is to continue the treatments under 
 the physician of your choice long enough to effect a com- 
 plete cure, or, if it be necessary, submit to an operation. 
 
 Talk over money matters with your physician, as 
 
COXSULTIXG THE PHTSICIAX 241 
 
 well as your illness, and this will insure prompt attention 
 and the very best service. Some peopie think a doctor 
 can wait, or should wait indefinitely. When the bill is 
 presented they become angry at him. Doctors' services 
 should be paid for in cash, just as cash is paid for goods 
 handed over the counter. Xo one, especially a stranger, 
 would buy a bill of goods from a merchant and take 
 them away without paying or making arrangements to 
 pay for them; yet many people emjDloy a physician with- 
 out making any arrangements about the pay. 
 
 Doctors, as a rule, are poor business men, too sym- 
 pathetic, and allow themselves to be imposed upon time 
 and again. Suppose a patient is not well fixed financially 
 and sickness comes. If the doctor's bill is necessarily 
 large and the patient has no ready money, he should 
 make arrangements with the doctor to pay a little at a 
 time, no matter how small the amount. The little things 
 make large on^s, so a little paid on the bill now and then 
 soon pays it and thus insures the doctor's best efforts 
 and his continued service should it be needed. 
 
 There is one time when money should be ready. The 
 Confinement Case. The parties know that at the end of 
 a limited time a doctor's services will be needed, and 
 the time is ample for preparation and getting the fee 
 ready; and the responsibility is so heavy, the danger 
 to mother and child so great, that in the near future no 
 
242 WOMAN ^S SECRETIN 
 
 reputable physician will take any case where arrange- 
 ments have not been made beforehand, as there is abso- 
 lutely no excuse for not being prepared. 
 
 Then the choice of a physician and the respect you 
 show him is a matter of extreme importance. You will 
 select a man from the medical profession whom you feel 
 honors your home when he enters it, and with whom you 
 can trust yourself under all circumstances. Do not em- 
 ploy a cheap doctor; cheap things are dear at any price. 
 You want a conscientious, upright man of experience, 
 one who has studied long and continuously, who buys 
 the latest books and instruinents, best journals, and in 
 every way keeps up with the advances of science. This 
 man cannot practice as cheaply as the man who does 
 none of these things. Do not employ a physician who 
 says unkind things about his fellow practitioners. Any 
 doctor who talks about another doctor's shortcomings 
 is not a safe physician for you to trust. Use good judg- 
 ment in selecting your physician, then be honest with 
 him. If he has your case under treatment and you are 
 not getting well as fast as you think you should and 
 want to have a consultation, tell your physician and make 
 the necessary arrangements. Do not call in another 
 doctor and say nothing about it to the one in charge of 
 the case. Then again, if you want to change doctors 
 tell your physician so, pay him what you owe him and 
 
CONSULTING THE PHYSICIAN 243 
 
 discharge him honorably; in fact, treat him just as you 
 yourself would like to be treated. 
 
 ^^ HEAVEN ENUF FOR ME/' 
 
 ''Last evening I was talking 
 
 With a doctor, aged and gray, 
 "Who told me of a dream he had, 
 
 I think 'twas Christmas Day. 
 While snoozing in his office 
 
 A vision came to view^: 
 He saw an angel enter 
 
 Dressed in garments white and new. 
 Said the angel, ''I'm from heaven; 
 
 The Lord just sent me down 
 To bring you up to glory 
 
 And put on your golden crown; 
 You've been a friend to every one 
 
 And worked hard night and day; 
 You have doctored many thousands 
 
 And from few received your pay. 
 So we want you up in glory. 
 
 For you have labored hard, 
 And the good Lord is preparing 
 
 Your eternal, just reward." 
 
 "Then the angel and the doctor 
 Started up towards glory's gate. 
 
244 WOMAN'S SECRETS 
 
 But when passing close to hades 
 
 The angel murmured, ''Wait; 
 I've got a place to show you; 
 
 It's the hottest place in hell; 
 Where the ones who never paid you 
 
 In torment always dwell." 
 And behold, the doctor saw there 
 
 His old patients by the score, 
 And grabbing up a chair and fan. 
 
 He wished for nothing more; 
 But was bound to sit and watch them 
 
 As they'd sizzle, singe and burn, 
 And his eyes would rest on debtors 
 
 Whichever way they'd turii. 
 Said the angel, "Come on, doctor, 
 
 There's the pearly gates to see.'" 
 But the doctor only muttered, 
 
 "This is Heaven enuf for me." 
 
CHAPTER XXVIII. 
 
 PATENT MEDICINE. 
 
 AYe wish to say a few words about patent medicines 
 that are prepared especially for ''Female Weakness.'' 
 They are the worst enemy of the woman who takes them 
 and the best friend of the physician who makes diseases 
 of women a specialty. "Women bny medicine of which 
 they know little or nothing and pour it into their bodies 
 (of which they know less). They will try to cure dis- 
 placements of the uterus or a torn cervix with medicine 
 which does not benefit them but undermines the health 
 until the system falls a prey to any disease. ]\Iedicine 
 thus taken has very little, if any. good effect. Its con- 
 tinued use by its action upon the pelvic organs will affect 
 the mind. 
 
 The patient is usually weak mentally and physically, 
 lacking power to withstand the strain of overstimula- 
 tion. The more and longer the medicine is taken, the 
 weaker the patient becomes, and the case the more diffi- 
 cult to cure. £ 
 
 ]\Iany suicides, sudden and mysterious deaths, heart 
 failures and sudden shocking crimes from so-called tem- 
 porary insanity are the results of the use of patent medi- 
 cines. 
 9a— 
 
246 WOMAN'S SECRETS 
 
 Things have reached such a state that the attention 
 of the government has been called to the evil effects 
 of patent medicine. Better class newspapers and maga- 
 zines are not only refusing their advertisements, but 
 have begun to expose materials and methods used in 
 their manufacture. The large number of women Avho 
 suffer with some pelvic troul)le are l)eing gulled in an 
 astonishing manner, and milliojis of dollars are being- 
 spent every year for such medicines niid thousands of 
 lives sacrificed directly or indirectly. 
 
 Suitable laws regulating or stopping the sale of such 
 medicines should be passcHl. It is n l)l()t upon our fail' 
 land and it is up to the jx'oph' to sto]) it. Many of them 
 contain alcohol, opium, chloral and othci* dangiM'ous 
 drugs, and they are many times the cause of the di'ug 
 habit. 
 
 ® 
 
CHAPTER XXIX. 
 
 MARRIAGE. 
 
 The Avord marriage is significant of tlie most intimate 
 relations between man and woman. A ceremony of 
 church or state legalizes a union, with a community of 
 interests, mutual love and sympathy, and the right of 
 sexual relationship. 
 
 The ruling impulse of mankind is the establishment 
 of a home. Indeed, of such power is the impulse that 
 one of our greatest writers has. said that ^4he whole 
 history of the human race can be traced to the sexual 
 instinct.'' Marriage is the normal state. The mind of 
 man or woman may be concentrated upon other interests, 
 but the awakening to the dominant instinct is inevitable. 
 Many a person has foregone marriage for the pursuit of 
 art, literature or science to be the victim of unceasing 
 regret. Especially is this true of woman. In the words 
 of the poet, 
 
 ^^ Man's love is of man's life a thing apart; 
 'Tis woman's whole existence." 
 Xot that man loves less sincerely than woman. Mar- 
 riage should be as much to one as the other. As Walling 
 says, ^'The union of two moral and intellectual beings, 
 linked by a pure love, in conjugal relation, is a sublime 
 conception of Christianity and civilization." There must 
 
248 WOMAN'S SECRETS 
 
 be harmony in temperament, education and custom. 
 Marriage without harmony is a failure, if not a crime. 
 
 Young persons enter matrimony thinking that noth- 
 ing can mar the bright and promising future. The 
 solemn joy of the nuptial service impresses them with 
 little of the real seriousness of life. The wedding bells 
 ring merrily while conjugal vows are taken lightly, with 
 no thought of their meaning. Parents and friends look 
 on approvingly, rejoicing in "Love's young dream," for- 
 getting that marriage is very far from a dream. 
 
 A few months pass by. The honeymoon has lost 
 much of its golden glory. The little differences that 
 gnaw at the roots of even the sturdiest affection have 
 done their work. The tempers of husband and wife clash 
 bitterly. Friends and parents cannot understand. They 
 refuse to listen to the pleadings of a broken heart. It is 
 not difficult for the keen observer to tell where the 
 trouble lies. Entrance into marriage Avithout any con- 
 sideration of mutual fitness can be productive of nothing 
 but unhappiness. No law or religion can ever restore 
 lost affection. 
 
 These persons were happy, contented and good be- 
 fore marriage. Does the fault lie with them? Frankly, 
 we say no. Little can be expected of a union when the 
 contracting parties are ignorant of themselves, each 
 other, and life in general. A meeting in a ballroom or 
 
MARRIAGE 249 
 
 at a pleasure resort is not conducive to a clear view of 
 the other's personality. The further meetings at social 
 functions and at other times when the best clothes and 
 behavior are donned do not admit of any real knowledge 
 of the beloved. 
 
 The woman who contemplates wifehood should com- 
 prehend the meaning of the word wife. She should see 
 life practically, a place where work and duty are made 
 sweeter by the existence of love. She must be man's co- 
 laborer. His toil as well as his pleasure must be shared. 
 By no means will the task be an easy one. Industry, 
 courage and self-reliance are necessary requisites of the 
 noble wife. 
 
 The man should be made to realize that his wife is 
 his equal. Too often does the husband regard his help- 
 mate as a cook, nurse, seamstress and common drudge. 
 He forgets that she has rights, that she is entitled to 
 exact from him what he does from her. 
 
 The chief object of marriage is the foundation of a 
 home. The wife must realize that home and children 
 are more important than social gayety. The husband, 
 that there are things of greater importance than business 
 activities. Parents should realize that the desire for 
 marriage is innate in the human breast and that their 
 children should be taught to look upon the building of 
 a home as the highest aim in life. The son or daughter 
 
250 WOMAN'S SECRETS 
 
 thus reared will come to his father and mother for coun- 
 sel before making any serious step in life. 
 
 If *a man is qualified to support a wife in a manner 
 suitable to their station in life, he has Ihe right to demand 
 of her economy and thrift. Too often does the mother 
 boast of her daughter's inability to ''keep house.'' "The 
 flower of the family" has been too ''lovely and choice" 
 a product to learn the meaning of work or troul)le. The 
 mother asks of her son-in-law that he take upon hims(^lf 
 a double responsibility. "kScc that you make her happy." 
 Does the fond mother forget that th(^ wife nnist en- 
 deavor to make the husband happy as well .^ All credit 
 to her who can truthfully assert her daughter's fitness 
 as a home-maker! All credit to her whose wise teach- 
 ings have given unto tlu^ man a wife who knows the 
 meaning of marriage and responsibility ! That her daugh- 
 ter is a good worker, an economical shopper, a careful 
 manager, is greater glory to her mother than that her 
 child has been the greatest beauty and social belle of a 
 community. Truly great persons live their own lives, 
 finding greater pleasure in the home circle than in the 
 realms of "society." 
 
 Of even greater importance to marital happiness is 
 health. Housekeeping can be learned, but a perfect 
 physique must be acquired in childhood. Neither man 
 nor woman should marry unless he or she is physically 
 
MARRIAGE 251 
 
 sound. Hereditary disease is one of the greatest curses 
 of mankind. Persons afflicted with consumption, 
 scrofula, or syphilis have no right to inflict their suffer- 
 ing upon their helpless oft^spring. Worthy of praise is 
 the action of those state legislatures which demand a 
 health certificate before the issuance of the marriage 
 license. Xeither money nor social position can compen- 
 sate for inherited disease. 
 
 The Sexual Life of Both Sexes. — The sexual passion 
 is a natural one, not to be considered as found among 
 the degenerate, but as it exists among the cultured and 
 refined. With other instincts in life, it gives noble ideas 
 and a desire to live for all that is beautiful. It is a 
 powerful stimulus, elevates life to its highest duty of 
 love and kindness. An eminent writer once said, *^If 
 man were robbed of sexual desire and everything mental- 
 ly connected with and emanating from the same, almost 
 every vestige of poetry and perhaps all moral sentiment 
 would be torn from his life.'' 
 
 Persons who are narrow minded, phlegmatic, cold, 
 ascetic, or otherwise abnormal, may condemn such teach- 
 ings and say all things sexual are vulgar and disgusting. 
 Such persons are more to be pitied than censured, for 
 they know nothing of nature's laws and requests. 
 
 True humanity demands a scientific discussion of 
 sexual life. If much of the existing disease, unhappiness 
 
252 WOMAN'S SECREIVS 
 
 and suffering is to be obliterated, the ignorance of the 
 laity must be changed to knowledge. The laws of nature 
 must be explained so that every man and woman may 
 understand the importance of a thorough knowledge of 
 life and sex. 
 
 Sexual desire is a necessary and natural law of love 
 uniting the opposite sexes in the most intimate relations. 
 It attracts men and women lo each other with the strong- 
 est of all passions and is one of the beautiful phenomena 
 of life necessary for the creation of new beings. Yet 
 we would not have you think that the first thought of 
 sexual desire is to create children, but it is the love and 
 sympathy for each other which manifests itself in sexual 
 life. It teaches that propagation is not the only purpose 
 of sexualus, for without love and personal sympathy 
 sexual desire becomes a physiological gratification and 
 nothing more. 
 
 The suppression of the sexual desire in women as 
 taught by Christian churches in the olden times was a 
 false conception of the natural laws, and is condemned 
 today by thinking and educated people. One should re- 
 member that sexual life is in harmony with a noble mind. 
 It is also recognized as an important factor in normal 
 organization as well as health. The human being needs 
 love, joy, sacrifice and pleasure. Without it there is 
 nothing in life. Yet our education along this line should 
 
MARRIAGE 253 
 
 be for the good and pure, for love reigns forever. The 
 poet never forgets to paint a beautiful picture in v/ords 
 for this desire for love. He sees it in all its beauty. 
 '^Thou, oh love, art indeed the eternal.'' Then we see 
 before the artist his masterpiece, a perfect body which 
 represents health and beauty. 
 
 As we have said before, the teachings of the church 
 often endeavor to force women to suppress this sexual 
 instinct and consider her only function to be that of 
 bearing children. Some authors give the reader the im- 
 pression that man's motives are simply from a physio- 
 logical point of view and woman's that of motherhood. 
 Both statements are either erroneous or false. Mrs. 
 Schoenflies, a Philadelphia woman, says that a woman 
 who loves a man and surrenders herself to him thinks 
 of him alone and not of the child which inay be the result 
 of their union and which is only secondary in a woman's 
 normal love connection. 
 
 Men and women are born with these natural sexual 
 desires and they should exist in a normal and moral con- 
 dition. True, Christianity, education and morality are 
 its safeguards. Both sexes are virtuous when they know 
 the morality of sexual life and understand its meaning. 
 Dr. Nystrom. of Stockholm, Sweden, who has done so 
 much to educate the laity on this subject, says in one of 
 his books, ''The Natural Laws of Sexual Life," when 
 
254 WOMAN'S SECRETS 
 
 speaking of the moral sexual life, "We must make earth 
 an empire of love where happy and healthy people enjoy 
 their existence and work and sing with overflowing love 
 of life, where the mind is open for all that is beautiful 
 in this world, for the greatness and truth, and the heart 
 vibrates with joy and love. This is the law of life; this 
 is morality. ' ' 
 
 In olden times Christians tried to improve the im- 
 moral conditions by trying to subdue the sexual pnssion 
 and by fighting prostitution. They used all sorts of 
 ways and means to destroy the sexual passion, l)ut tliey 
 could not succeed in their severe demands. Nature's 
 laws would exist in si)ite of all efforts from that day to 
 this. Christianity has done luueh in improving the moral 
 conditions, but there is still room foi* improvement. 
 
 Let the husband and wife unite in studying this 
 question of sexual life honestly and tinithfully and from 
 a moral standpoint. Then it will be understood as it 
 should be, and then your daughter and mine will have 
 the proper protection. This chapter does not permit the 
 space to go into detail as to the old religious teachings 
 of ''self-denial" To repeat the saying, ''Judge not 
 and you shall not be judged," is sufficient. All persons 
 are not alike sexually. To use connnon sense is th<: best 
 method in the regulation of sexual life. 
 
 A true recognition of the beautv and morality of 
 
MARRIAGE 255 
 
 sexual life can be brought into the lives of every husband 
 and wife — making every American home purer and hap- 
 pier. 
 
 Physiology and Effects. — The development of the 
 sexual organs in the woman has been fully considered 
 in a preceding chapter on puberty. A change occurs 
 in man as in Avoman, though generally a few years later — 
 usually in the sixteenth or seventeenth year. At this 
 time the will power becomes especially developed and the 
 secretion of the spermatozoa takes place in the testicles. 
 Parents should realize that this is the critical time in a 
 boy's life as well as in a girl's. Character is moulded, 
 the sexual life begins with its sensations and emotions, 
 and the opposite sexes are especially attracted to each 
 other. Dr. M. A. AVickard. the noted German author, 
 says, '^It is a known fact that the spermatic fluid is 
 secreted from the blood of man's sexual organs as soon 
 as he reaches a certain age. We know this causes the 
 greatest actions in the body. As soon as this secretion 
 occurs a young man totally changes. His voice gradually 
 becomes deep and manly, hair grows on his face and 
 genital organs : his limbs grow more powerful and mus- 
 cular, he becomes more fit for thinking, his intellectual 
 powers increase, he grows more courageous, and feels an 
 almost unconquerable desire to have intercourse with 
 the opposite sex. It is also a known fact that the seminal 
 
256 WOMAN'S SECRETS 
 
 fluid is a daily means of recreation and sustenance of the 
 male sex, that it sustains the vitality, vigor and tempera- 
 ment, that men who are always happy and jolly through 
 life and live to an advanced age are men who always 
 have been sexually strong.'' Therefore, it cannot be 
 denied that men who are normal sexually are cheerful 
 and sympathetic men, hard workers and good thinkers. 
 
 The cause of the sexual desire or appetite is due to 
 the filling of the sexual glands with a spermatic fluid 
 which causes a peculiar stimulation to the entire nervous 
 system. The gratification of the sexual desire relaxes 
 the nervous tension. 
 
 The sexual act in both sexes depends upon a reflex 
 stimulation from the genital organs and the brain. The 
 action of the brain can either excite or control these 
 reflexes. Specific sexual energy is nothing more than the 
 mind and central parts of the brain acting upon the 
 genital organs through a stimulation known as nerve 
 vibration. 
 
 Some contend that as soon as a boy reaches man- 
 hood and a sexual desire is manifested, with an involun- 
 tary escape of the seminal fluid during sleep, sexual 
 intercourse is necessary to preserve health and prevent 
 masturbation. We are sorry to say that few boys escape 
 this detestable habit; however, cultivation of the mind 
 and the development of the faculty of self-control will 
 
MARRIAGE 257 
 
 enable any member of either sex to desist from mastur- 
 bation or intercourse. 
 
 The brain and nervous system are influenced by the 
 sexual organs during sleep. This is proved by the fact 
 that emissions of the semen (a voluntary act during 
 sexual intercourse) occur involuntarily at night once or 
 twice a month in healthy men. Single men who live the 
 ordinary life of today will have these emissions and 
 should not be alarmed or become melancholy or anxious 
 about their condition. 
 
 In classifying different individuals, we find some 
 who have no sexual feeling and desire. Such persons 
 are '^Cold Natures." This indifferent condition is found 
 more freciuently in women than men. Men so affected 
 generally spend all their time and energy upon scientific 
 subjects. Their minds are totally concerned with ab- 
 stract things : they have no other interests and soon be- 
 come inactive and ^'cold sexually.'' True, overstudy 
 and too much brain activity on any subject will cause 
 the same abnormal condition in men. A faulty edu- 
 cation and the teachings of cold and indifferent mothers 
 are the causes of a great many of the cold natures in 
 women. Such women are totally indifferent and possess 
 no feeling whatever during sexual intercourse. They 
 come into this world, live by eating and drinking and 
 without the sufficient amount of sunshine, love or svm- 
 
258 WOMAN'S SECRETS 
 
 pathy to make their pathway through life brighter. Per- 
 sons of this type imitate and follow the examples of 
 others, never rise above the regular routine of every-day 
 life, intellectually are not investigators, and never be- 
 come leaders or rulers. Such married women abhor sex- 
 ual intercourse with their husbands and treat it with the 
 utmost disgust. When such acts do occur they feel that 
 they are doing their duties towards their liusbands, l)ut 
 to their minds it is sinful and wrong. Sucli a wife never 
 satisfies a husband's desire for love, sympathy, and 
 affection. It is not altogether just the act; something 
 more is needed to make it complete; the Avhole body and 
 soul must unite to bring forth love ami sympathy tlnit 
 each can sny to the other, ''There is no one in nil this 
 world but you.'*' 
 
 When the sexual desire is destroyed in a man who 
 was perfectly normal before the disease or accident that 
 caused such condition he becomes depressed, loses will 
 power and energy; Avorries continually about his hope- 
 less miserable condition, seeing no future, no hope. So 
 we can truthfully say that a lack of sexual desire robs 
 life of its happiness. This is true of both sexes. 
 
 The sexual desire may remain normal in both sexes 
 until late in life. In some cases women years after 
 the menopause, even to the age of seventy-five, have had 
 perfect sexual desires, and men at the age of eighty-five 
 have become fathers. 
 
MAERIAGE 259 
 
 Sexual life may also manifest itself quite early in 
 life, long before the genital glands are active. It may 
 occur in both boys and girls as early as the third year. 
 
 Sexual desire varies greatly in both men and women. 
 Variations may occur in the same individual at different 
 periods of life and under dift'erent conditions. The gen- 
 eral health has a great deal to do with the desire. 
 
 There is no fixed rule with either sex as to the fre- 
 quency of intercourse during married life without being 
 detrimental to either husband or wife. It is best gov- 
 erned by the physical and mental condition. If there 
 is a fatigued feeling accompanied by headache, slow- 
 ness of the intellect, and a general depression of the 
 nervous system, the sexual act should not occur so fre- 
 quently. Once or twice a week is considered normal 
 for the average person in perfect health. If he is very 
 strong sexually and in robust health it may occur more 
 frecpiently. The future health must be considered. Pa- 
 tients who consult physicians late in life for impotency, 
 general nervousness, and a complete breakdown are 
 those who usually give a history of having had inter- 
 course or masturbated very frequently for years during 
 their early life. This abnormal increase of the sexual 
 appetite is found early in life more frequently in men 
 than in women and when it is gratified daily as reported 
 in some cases it sooner or later ruins the health. Such 
 
260 WOMAN'S SECRETS 
 
 patients become dizzy, have more or less headache, are 
 unfit for work, and the vitality of the system becomes so 
 low that they are susceptible to any disease. 
 
 A lack of gratification of the sexual desire after 
 marriage will cause a breakdown in health similar to the 
 excess. Married women who are neglected by their 
 husbands, or perchance are widows, suffer to a greater 
 or less degree from enforced abstinence. Such women 
 sooner or later become neurasthenic and ofttimes hyster- 
 ical. Cases are reported Avhere the same condition caused 
 melancholia and female diseases. The sexual appetite in 
 young women ofttimes does not manifest itself until 
 after it is created by man, — that is, by the sexual act. 
 It ma}^ be weeks or even months after marriage before 
 the desire manifests itself. Again there are certain un- 
 married women with a sensitive instinct who enjoy a per- 
 fect physical and mental condition where sexuality is 
 present. In other cases intercourse has developed a cer- 
 tain condition and abstinence will cause serious mental 
 derangement. In such a case any irritability of the sex- 
 ual organs causes a most perceptible shock. By this we 
 refer to young girls who have given birth to a child by 
 a promise of marriage or who have given themselves up 
 to a lover who has afterwards deserted them. 
 
 Another condition that will cause female diseases 
 and pelvic congestion is incomplete intercourse. This 
 
MARRIAGE 261 
 
 happens when the act is not in harmony with both par- 
 ties; that iS; either hnsband or wife does not exper- 
 ience normal sexnal interconrse. A woman is not af- 
 fected if she has no sexual instinct. In some marriages 
 where young women have married elderly men who are 
 weak sexually they have become mistresses of other men. 
 Upon the other hand where there are cold natures exist- 
 ing in either sex the opposite has not fallen or become 
 faithless. We often hear of such parties contemplating 
 and sometimes committing suicide. Men are often weak 
 sexually because they live too fast a life while single. 
 In such cases we often hear complaints from the wife. 
 Incomplete sexual intercourse is often practiced to pre- 
 vent pregnancy and the result is pelvic congestion, and 
 painful menstruation which will finally result in ill 
 health. When there is a lack of proper sympathy and 
 affection manifested upon the part of the husband there 
 is often a lack of complete sexual relations on the part 
 of the wife, as she must be approached with a tender and 
 sympathetic attitude. Without such relations the woman 
 will suffer the results. If real love is present, mutual 
 harmony will result in what is termed perfect sexual 
 life. 
 
 In women during sexual intercourse the tubes, ovar- 
 ies and uterus become congested and if they remain in 
 this condition without the natural crisis being reached 
 
262 WOMAN'S SECRETS 
 
 various pelvic disorders will be produced; the parts will 
 become swollen; catarrhal conditions wdll develop; hem- 
 orrhages will occur and changes wull take place in the 
 pelvis which will result in a complete break-down in a 
 woman's health. Man should be instructed in regard to 
 this fact as he may not be aware of the injury he is 
 doing. Patients suffering from incomplete sexual inter- 
 course often consult a physician. Owing to the modesty 
 of the patient in not telling him of the relations existing 
 between herself and husband the physician is not made 
 familiar with the cause of such a condition. Women 
 should be frank about such things in order that they 
 may receive the proper treatment and prevent future suf- 
 fering and misery. Like ill results Avill occur in men 
 who practice incomplete sexual intercourse for the; pur- 
 pose of i^reventing their wives from becoming pregnant. 
 
 It is one of the impossibilities so far as the health 
 and mental development are concerned for married men 
 who are sexually strong to abstain. 
 
 Men who abstain from such relations for a longer 
 or shorter period of time and then indulge to an excess, 
 as they generally do, will suffer from the disastrous 
 results later in life. In such cases the love of life disap- 
 pears, the intellect becomes inactive, the physical condi- 
 tion is impaired and the patient becomes melancholy and 
 depressed and perhaps insane. Unmarried men and wom- 
 
MARRIAGE 263 
 
 en ^y]lo have never had the sexual appetite gratified are 
 in a position to abstain with a much less degree of re- 
 sistance and without experiencing the ill effects upon 
 the system that are the result of abstinence after mar- 
 riage. This refers especially to women. Men who ab- 
 stain from sexual relations without any iJl effects are 
 men who are weak physically as well as sexually and 
 whose general constitutions are far below the average. 
 Too long abstinence may lower the vitality of the sexual 
 organs to such a degree that impotency may result. The 
 immediate effects of ungratified desires in men are head- 
 ache, a general tired feeling, a lack of ambition, loss of 
 appetite, sleeplessness and inactivity in their avocations. 
 Men suffering from these conditions are as bashful as 
 women about giving their physician the exact history of 
 their cases and consequently do not receive the proper 
 medical advice. They may be treated for some sort of 
 nervousness, the physician being unable to make out the 
 exact cause of the condition. Both sexes should be per- 
 fectly frank with their physicians in regard to such mat- 
 ters in order that perfect health may be restored. Some 
 authors claim that abstinence in men after marriage ^^ill 
 cause them to become low in morals, dishonest, often de- 
 veloping a criminal tendency, and that crimes due to tem- 
 porary insanity have been committed as a result. There- 
 fore, a man of strong sexual appetite and a perfect body 
 
264 WOMAN'S SECRETS 
 
 cannot endure a prolonged abstinence without causing ill 
 health and great suffering to himself, and those with whom 
 he associates are in more or less danger. Men and women 
 who have been privileged to marry and who abstain from 
 such relations, even when the effort is comparatively easy, 
 will sooner or later ruin the health and mental activity. 
 
 Married women often become physical and nervous 
 wrecks from the brutal injustice imposed upon them by 
 their husbands who ignore their rights. Sucli a husband 
 is so selfish that he thinks onh^ of his own pleas- 
 ure and gratification in his sexual relations witli his 
 wife. Men often ruin the health of their wives by being 
 devoid of the kind and sympathetic attitude at this time. 
 
 It is believed by some among the laity that normal 
 sexual conditions must exist in a woman or she cannot 
 become pregnant. This is false because wives have be- 
 come mothers several times without having any sexual 
 appetite. Many women marry without love and never 
 have loved their husbands. In other cases the sexual 
 desires of women are destroyed by, men not properly 
 understanding the sexual relations and who have not used 
 the law of kindness, devotion and love. If both parties 
 were only properly educated there would be less female 
 diseases, fewer mental and physical wrecks and fewer 
 unhappy unions and failures in life. Divorces and their 
 evil effects would be lessened to a marked desrree. The 
 
:\IAKRIAGE 265 
 
 high moral ideal of sexual life must be thoroughly lived 
 up to if real love, kiiidness. sympathy, and devotion gov- 
 ern married life. 
 
 Morality. — Doubtless some of our remarks upon the 
 subject of sexual life will be severely criticised. How- 
 ever, if you are fair-minded you will recognize the worth 
 of our heart-to-heart talk even if you do not agree with 
 our views upon the matter. 
 
 That you have tried to educate your daughters in the 
 best way possible is a foregone conclusion. The average 
 American mother sends her children to church and Sun- 
 day school. The average American child receives a fairly 
 good common school education. In all respects but one 
 is the rising generation at least fairly well schooled. It 
 is the more pitiful a fact because upon this one thing 
 depends much of the world's health and happiness. In- 
 struction upon topics of sex is of vital importance to each 
 and every man and woman. The relations that exist in 
 marriage are too closely related to all life and human 
 affairs to admit of any ignoring of them. The knowledge 
 will inevitably come. It rests in your hands whether it 
 be from the levrdness of associates, from the bitterness 
 of experience or from the purity of a parent's love. 
 
 It is surprising that in our up-to-date recognition of 
 the value of specialized training in the trades and pro- 
 fessions, we fail to see that special training for matri- 
 
266 WOMAN'S SECRETS 
 
 mony may be conducive to domestic happiness. A person 
 who has never studied music is not expected to master a 
 difficult sonata; a young woman is not expected to make 
 a dress without previous instruction. That she is al- 
 lowed to enter upon a new life without a comprehension 
 of its difficulties is your fault, not hers. Blame yourselves 
 if her life becomes a failure. If you '^ can't see why 
 things are as they are when you did everything you pos- 
 sibly could to educate her," question yourself thoroughly. 
 Nine chances out of ten your daughter, if not absolutely 
 ignorant of her duties as a Avife and mother, has been 
 taught in a perverted school. 
 
 Look into this matter honestly and sincerel3\ Are 
 you one of those who desire to improve the moral condi- 
 tions of society? Do you wish to make this a better, 
 purer world for our daughters and sisters? Is it neces- 
 sary that the sisters and daughters of others must live a 
 life of prostitution to protect our family honor and de- 
 cency? The case lies with you. If you educate your 
 children purely, the degradation of the present time 
 will gradually decrease. 
 
 The unequal standard of morality today is respon- 
 sible for our greatest social evils. The man who freely 
 indulges his amorous passions is warmly received by cir- 
 cles who spurn his victim as an irredeemably ^^ fallen cre- 
 ature." He expects to marry a woman Avhose virtue is 
 
MAKRIAGE 267 
 
 unquestioned and whose purity is spotless. The woman 
 takes what she can get — often innocently believing she is 
 obtaining a '*' manly man." Xor is it all the man's fault. 
 From time immemorial woman has been taught that her 
 reputation depended upon her sexual purity. The prin- 
 ciples of chastity are inherent in the generality of wom- 
 ankind. The boy is taught by older associates habits 
 destructive to his moral nature. It is called a natural 
 course where in woman it would be designated as de- 
 praved. 
 
 The cure can be accomplished only by the parents. 
 A pure, sane view of life and its processes of regeneration 
 must be inculcated into the growing boy. The conse- 
 quences of sin must be taught. Let the child know what 
 he should and should not do. Teach him that masturba- 
 tion will ruin him mentally and physically: teach him 
 that he should hold intimate relations with no one but his 
 wife; teach him that sin brings in its train disease; teach 
 him that each woman is or has been as sacred in the eyes 
 of some man as his own mother is in his. Teach him that 
 there is but one standard of right and wrong — that chas- 
 tity is a jewel in the hearts of men as well as women. 
 
 Men, even as boys, seldom fail to recognize moral 
 worth in women or girls. His respect is measured by her 
 reserve. Moral scruples do not lower a woman in a man's 
 regard. Nothing is so dear as the unattainable and the 
 
268 WOMAN'S SECRETS 
 
 woman who holds her purity inviolable raises her value 
 in the eyes of him who Avould violate it. If she yields she 
 faces great dangers. Nothing can compensate for the 
 loss of her own self respect. She is scorned by both 
 sexes. She runs the risk of being infected with gonorr- 
 hoea and syphilis. To hide an accidental pregnancy she 
 may by a secret abortion destroy her own beauty and 
 health and the life of her unborn child. 
 
 Sexual morality should be a quality of married as 
 Avell as unmarried life. There exist unions in which the 
 high standard of morality is shown by the husband \s re- 
 gard for the wife's wishes in all sexual relations. Such 
 a man would look upon any enforced inclination to his 
 desires upon the part of his wife as a transgression of the 
 moral law. He realizes that feminine reserve is a protec- 
 tion not only for herself but for the race. Adultery on 
 the part of the husband is common unless he has more 
 than an ordinary sense of justice and develops human 
 feelings instead of brutal instinct. Moral law restricts 
 woman to a permanent mate; man hopes to find fuller 
 pleasure in variety. The good woman has ever been in 
 competition with the courtesan. Chastity must be sup- 
 plemented by the arts of pleasing before it can hold the 
 hearts of men. It is here that the good woman often 
 fails. She endeavors to retain by tears and reproaches 
 what is being led away by smiles and graces — and smiles 
 
MARRIAGE 269 
 
 are far more captivating than tears. Matrimonial faith- 
 fulness and purity are her greatest aid, but as little faults 
 often blind us to great virtues, so man loses sight of his 
 wife's chastity in her very apparent hysterical tendencies. 
 
 You ask how we would prevent prostitution? Its 
 prevention is impossible in present day conditions. It is 
 worse than folly to attempt to close restricted districts. 
 The inmates will simply take up their quarters in other 
 portions of the town, making all decent women subject 
 to the doubts of passing men. It is not our intention to 
 go into any discussion of the ways and means of con- 
 trolling houses of prostitution. The cure must begin in 
 the home. As men increase in self-respecting purity, 
 prostitution will decrease and it will decrease only as 
 manly purity increases. 
 
 Sexual morality means a disappearance of the most 
 horrible sins and loathsome diseases that afflict the 
 human beings; it means a harmonious social system — a 
 Utopia where all women are chaste, and all men are pure ; 
 it means a higher physical, intellectual, and spiritual de- 
 velopment of the individual and the race. 
 
 10- 
 
CHAPTER XXV. 
 
 THE IDEAL WIFE. 
 
 Fitness for marriage in a young woman depends upon 
 certain qualifications. It is the mother's duty to insist 
 upon their acquirement before she consents to the daugh- 
 ter's entrance into wifehood. The ideal, in this case at 
 least, is not an impossibility, — any girl with persistence 
 and earnestness can attain to her level. Whether or not 
 a woman is beautiful is of little consequence. Indeed, a 
 handsome woman often makes a poor helpmate — too much 
 admiration and attention are apt to render the recipient 
 vain and frivolous. Beauty may excuse a woman's de- 
 ficiencies for a time, but the day will come Avhen other 
 qualities will be more desirable in her husband's eyes. 
 
 Be a Good Housekeeper. — A woman, even if she has 
 under her a corps of trained servants, should be compe- 
 tent to manage a home. The details of housekeeping 
 come easily to the young wife who has been her mother's 
 assistant. The way to a man's heart may not be through 
 his stomach, but the sense of well-being arising from a 
 good meal nicely served is conducive to happiness. 
 
 Be Good Natured. — A cheerful disposition is among 
 the most desirable qualities in a wife. The details of 
 housekeeping tire a woman and the weightier details of 
 business have a like efifect upon a man. The tact which 
 
THE IDEAL WIFE 271 
 
 exerts a soothing influence upon the careworn husband 
 is an invaluable trait in the wife. 
 
 Be Interested in Your Husband's Business. — A wife 
 should take an interest in her husband's business, study 
 its nature, and be able to discuss it from every stand- 
 point. Sympathy and cheerful aid in the gloomy days 
 cannot be overestimated. 
 
 Be Economical. — Xo matter how large or small a 
 man's fortune may be a woman should know her hus- 
 band's financial condition — otherwise she may be a bur- 
 den rather than a helpmate. She should learn to buy 
 household supplies at the best figure and to purchase her 
 personal effects at bargain prices. The wife of a poor 
 man who can do her own sewing and trim her own hats 
 has a great advantage over the one in like circumstances 
 Avho can do neither. 
 
 Do Not Be Jealous. — Many an unhappy hour would 
 be eliminated were jealousy to be conquered. A wife who 
 nags at her husband and refuses to trust him in the pres- 
 ence of other women is not to be pitied if she loses his 
 affection. Nothing will drive him away more quickly 
 than an accusation when he is not guilty. 
 
 Keep Well-Dressed. — Costly apparel is not necessary 
 to good appearance. Neatness and cleanliness make any 
 woman attractive. Some wives think it unnecessarv to be 
 
272 WOMAN'S SECRETS 
 
 well groomed in the presence of their husbands. At least 
 keep your hair tidy and beware of soiled collars. 
 
 Have Some Accomplishments. — ]\Iusic in some form 
 adds greatly to the home life. Many have no talent along 
 this line, but every woman can study the art of entertain- 
 ing. She should develop the talents she possesses. Some 
 are good readers, others good conversationalists. None 
 are so uncultured today that they cannot make a Iioiik^ 
 more cheerful by their presence. 
 
 Be a Sweetheart and Lover. — After marriage never 
 lose sight of the fact that you are your husband's sweet- 
 heart and lover in the ti'uest sense of the word. Pay him 
 little attentions. The marriage ceremony gives you that 
 privilege and it is one of the cliief means hy which you 
 hold your husband's love and affection. It remains with 
 you to do well your part. Remember, that men are only 
 boys grown up and the wife must take a mother's place. 
 
CHAPTER XXXI. 
 
 CHOOSING A COMPANION. 
 
 In her choice of a husband a woman faces the most 
 serious problem of her life. Upon her decision rests the 
 happiness of herself and unborn generations. Failures 
 in marriage are due largely to the thoughtlessness with 
 Avhicli men and women enter into the matrimonial state — 
 guided, too frequently, only by appearances and external 
 graces. A girl, ofttimes, devotes more serious considera- 
 tion to the design of a new party frock than to the selec- 
 tion of a life companion. Divorce would be less preval- 
 ent were the fact remembered that although lover and 
 sweetheart are blind to each other's faults, the husband 
 and wife are gifted with extraordinarily clear vision. 
 
 No woman should enter into a matrimonial contract 
 without a thorough knowledge of the man's financial con- 
 ditions. It behooves a woman to study her wooer's meth- 
 ods of making and investing money, his manner of spend- 
 ing his leisure hours, his business associates and his chosen 
 companions. Not that it is well to marry for money or 
 social position: they soon lose their attraction for a wife 
 who does not love her husband. It is not necessary that 
 a man accumulate a large amount of capital before he 
 marries, but he should have the ability to support a fam- 
 ily and to leave it provided for in case of his death. Few 
 
274 WOMAN'S SECRETS 
 
 men under thirty and often nearer forty are mature 
 enough to master the many problems of life. A woman 
 risks much in connecting herself with the experimental 
 stage of a man's life. 
 
 From the beginning of time men have asked much 
 of women and given little in return. He demands that 
 she be pure and virtuous. She takes him, moral or im- 
 moral, without question. Few men there are, who have 
 not gone the pace and sown their wild oats. She is for- 
 tunate w^ho can find among her suitors one who is as 
 chaste as he would have her be. 
 
 He who indulges freely in 'Svine, cards and women" 
 does not make the ideal husband for any girl who has 
 properly prepared herself to accept the position of wife 
 and mother. He has cultivated habits which destroy him 
 financially, physically, and mentally. 
 
 Women often remark that they prefer a num who 
 has sown "his wild oats" and their actions carry out 
 this sentiment. They believe that a ''reformed rake" 
 will settle down and make a better husband than one of a 
 higher and nobler character. It can all be traced back 
 to the double standard which demands license for men 
 and restriction for women. The unchangeable law of God 
 is forgotten, ''What ye sow ye shall reap." The crop 
 never fails. Neither remorse nor repentance will lessen 
 its abundance. It is harvested by the guilty and the inno- 
 
CHOOSING A COMPANION 275 
 
 cent. ''The sins of the father are visited upon the heads 
 of his children even unto the third and fourth genera- 
 tions. 
 
 Do yoii love a man who has received his degree in 
 the college of drunkenness, gambling, and vice? Are you 
 desirous of reforming him • Look into the lives of inno- 
 cent women and children, helpless reapers of the harvest 
 of sin and shame and death. 
 
 In a hospital lies a tiny girl, a sufferer from inherited 
 syphilis : a wife preparing to undergo a serious opera- 
 tion made necessary by gonorrhoeal infection; a youth 
 influenced by evil companions, whose body is a living mass 
 of corruption : a beautiful young mother whose blind babe 
 is a product of her husband's sowing of wild oats. 
 
 In an insane asylum raves a maniac woman who mar- 
 ried a charming, but dissolute lover of her sex to reform 
 him. 
 
 In a tireless home a mother rocks her babe. Two 
 children of three and four beg piteously for bread. The 
 husband and father reaps his crop in the city jail where 
 he is confined for drunkenness and petty theft. 
 
 A group of girls in their teens nursing their father- 
 less babes in a home for fallen women. ''The common 
 folly of men,'' you say. Yes a common folly, and the more 
 detestable because of its commonness. Would you be- 
 
276 WOMAN'S SECRETS 
 
 come the wife of one whose innocent but illegitimate off- 
 spring daily curses his father. 
 
 Pictures of untold horror and unlimited suffering 
 are they not? Do you desire a similar fate? Take your 
 life into your own hands. ]\rarry a man to reform him if 
 you wish, but do not expect to escape the penalty. The 
 laws of nature are inexorable. 
 
CHAPTER XXXII. 
 
 HUSBAND AND WIFE. 
 
 This is so broad a subject and one upon which so 
 much must needs be said that I almost stand aghast at the 
 responsibility. Earth does not hold a more sacred tie nor 
 an obligation so fraught with beauty and genuine pleas- 
 ure — indeed we may safely call this relation the one 
 thing worth while. When the compact is thoughtfully 
 entered into it uplifts and elevates to such an extent that 
 the humdrum things of life lose their sordid aspect and 
 become beautiful. Every husband and wife has a per- 
 sonal obligation toward the world at large and it is their 
 duty to make their marriage a perfect one so that their 
 home may radiate happiness on every side and make oth- 
 ers long for such an existence rather than dread it. Re- 
 move the integrity of the family and the salt of the earth 
 is gone. 
 
 A man and woman drawn together by the indissoluble 
 ties of love, planning and working together, mutual- 
 ly helpful, mutually forbearing and sharing fully each 
 other's confidence, represent the home that has given to 
 American domestic life its high position. Such a couple 
 can contemplate old age with serenity and their life pre- 
 sent the fittest earthly type of Heaven. 
 
 In the first place let us consider the husband's duty. 
 10a— 
 
278 WOMAN'S SECRETS 
 
 If a man can be made to realize a woman's true worth 
 we have accomplished much. Married life is an enter- 
 prise Avhere the wife is made a jDartner and co-worker. 
 The Lord has endowed woman Avith natural faculties 
 which, if permitted, will make her of untold value as an 
 able assistant. 
 
 There is something within that rebels Avlien a true 
 woman finds herself being catalogued as a mere orna- 
 ment incapable of sharing the problems that confront her 
 husband. Such a woman glories in knowing that her 
 Avomanhood is fully understood and she Avill not rest until 
 she stands, in the eyes of society, upon the level ground 
 of moral equality with the man she loves. She realizes 
 that a childish dependence and an uuti-ained and frivol- 
 ous mind are unfavorable to the advancement of wife- 
 hood and motherhood and therefore to the progress of the 
 world. 
 
 Marriage makes or mars a woman's life and in plac- 
 ing her entire happiness in the hands of her husband she 
 is bestowing a sacred charge and he should look upon it 
 as such. 
 
 Marital unhappiness can be frequently traced to mon- 
 ey matters. A wife shows no interest in her husband's 
 busiriess, he is too reserved to acquaint her with his af- 
 fairs. Too often a man looks upon his helpmate as a 
 cook, nurse, housekeeper, and common drudge Avho needs 
 no pecuniary recompense. 
 
HUSBAND AND WIFE 279 
 
 A wife should never be left in the dark as to her 
 husband's financial condition. It does not require an 
 undue amount of moral courage to say ^^I cannot afford 
 if and if the wife is made to feel that her responsibility 
 is as great as her husband's she will say it willingly and 
 cheerfully. A man never pays his wife a greater compli- 
 ment than when he turns his bank account over to her and 
 says, ^'This is our nest egg; you know what we can 
 afford as well if not better than I. Use your own discre- 
 tion, dear, — I know that it is in good hands and that you 
 will use it wisely and well." We believe that is the 
 proper way to settle the pin-money question. But in- 
 stead of this harmonious condition of affairs, the follow- 
 ing is often the case : The wife is looked upon as a re- 
 spectable beggar and when she expresses a desire for a 
 new dress or hat the husband remarks, *' Can't you get 
 along with the old one? You spend so much money for 
 clothes. Mine cost a great deal less." The chances are 
 that the wife's hat has been trimmed time and again and 
 she is well worth many times the price of a new one. The 
 wife keeps the house in order, trains the children, and 
 makes home pleasant for the husband. What does he 
 give her for it? A place she is supposed to call home. 
 Well, when he married her he promised to endow her with 
 all his worldly goods. It seems to us that meant share 
 and share alike, and unless the husband takes the same 
 
280 WOMAN'S SECRETS 
 
 view and acts accordingly his wife will soon feel as 
 though she is considered nothing more than a mere ma- 
 chine. He might as well say in so many words, *'0f 
 course I enjoy your company, but you must realize that I 
 can't afford to pay you for doing your work. Don't 
 forget that I earn the money that buys all the comforts . 
 of our home while you merely do away with the cost of 
 keeping a servant/' for his attitude implies as much. 
 This causes the wife to w.onder and say to herself, '^Is 
 this married life? Is this the treatment I deserve?" Per- 
 haps the wife asks for ten dollars which she had planned 
 to spend on the children and household necessities. How 
 will she feel if she is met with a remark like the fol- 
 lowing? ^^Do you think T nm made of money? I wish 
 you would keep an account of the money you spend." 
 Such remarks lay the foundation for much imhappiness. 
 Don't let finance be the one bitter drop in the cup that 
 otherwise would be full of happiness. Talk over the 
 home expense account as you would any other. If the 
 grocery or meat bill seems large there must be some rea- 
 son for it. Perhaps the husband invited several friends 
 in to dinner during the month, and is himself responsible 
 for the increased expense. As a usual thing the husband 
 is always too ready to assume, with an air that is not be- 
 coming, that he is the money maker and his wife the 
 money spender. At the first breath of criticism the aver- 
 
HUSBAND AND WIFE 281 
 
 age woman is hurt and humiliated in a way that she can 
 never forget. Therefore the husband should strive to 
 learn the hard lesson of admiring rather than criticising. 
 If the tragedy of a woman's life be told, it resolves 
 itself into the fact that they must be told constantly, re- 
 peatedly that they are loved. Xo woman can be recon- 
 ciled into taking it for granted. They want all the little 
 loA^e phrases and tender attentions of their honeymoon 
 and not one woman in ten thousand gets them, and yet 
 with what persistency they keep on wanting. So while 
 the ups and downs of life come and go don't neglect the 
 courtesies and delicate attentions toward each other. ^^I 
 love you dear" is just as sweet to the wife of five or fifty 
 years as it was in the days of your courtship. As birds 
 were made to fly and rivers to flow, so women were made 
 to be loved and admired, "We realize the joy of life just 
 in so far as we strive to make joy possible to others. 
 Show your wife that you are still her sweetheart and you 
 will find her making use of all the graces that first won 
 your love. Don't permit her to ever see you showing 
 attentions and courtesies to her lady friends that you 
 have outgrown or forgotten in her presence. 
 
 The true relations between husband and wife can 
 only exist when there is a real, honest, healthy, passionate 
 love with the desire for exclusive union with the object 
 of devotion. Without this their union is a failure and we 
 
282 WOMAN'S SECRETS 
 
 ask you this question ''Should the life-long bondage pun- 
 ish two unfortunate individuals where ignorance is the 
 only crime they have committed?" How helpless is the 
 husband or wife who does not knoAv what it means to 
 charm and satisfy simply from a physical point of view. 
 There is a strong obligation on the part of every 
 young man to marry, and this is all well and good, but his 
 obligation does not end there ; in truth it is but the be- 
 ginning of the end. 
 
 A single standard of morals for men and women is 
 the only reasonable fovmdation upon which to stand, and 
 yet in this day and age the pitiful truth must be faced that 
 but few men are absolutely true to their marriage vows. 
 The obligation he assumes at club or lodge no power on 
 earth could make him faithless to and yet how many 
 times more sacred is the promise made at the marriage 
 altar, before his Maker, to the woman who is trusting her 
 whole life's happiness in his keeping. He takes the same 
 vow that she does, but it loses weight with the average 
 man while the woman goes on blindly trusting to the 
 bitter end. Early training has a great deal to do with 
 this state of affairs ; a girl from her infancy is taught sup- 
 pression of emotions and self control, while the boy gives 
 vent to every impulse, compromising with his conscience 
 by saying, ''All the other felloAvs do, and I'm going to be 
 a good fellow." We can safelv say this — more heartaches 
 
HUSBAND AND WIFE 283 
 
 and sorrow and wrecked homes are brought about in this 
 way than from any other source. 
 
 ''As unto the bow the cord is 
 
 So unto man is woman. 
 Though she bends him she obeys him, 
 Though she draws him, she follows, — 
 Useless each without the other.'' 
 
 To the wife, if we could give but one counsel, we 
 Avould say, ''keep SAveet." If you want an ideal home 
 this rule holds good. Enough things happen to married 
 persons to embitter and sour them both, God knows, but 
 can't you keep sweet through it all? Don't lose sight of 
 the fact that you are the one bright spot in your husband's 
 life, that since he kissed you goodbye this morning he 
 has had nothing but plain hard facts to deal with, that 
 the business world is no bed of roses and that he comes 
 home to you at night tired mentally and physically and 
 he's only a boy grown larger and needs a little petting 
 and humoring for a while. 
 
 Don't meet him at the door with all the petty wor- 
 ries that have confronted you during the day. .Lay them 
 aside with your kitchen dress and just "be sweet." No 
 matter how busy the day or hoAV manifold the duties take 
 the time to make yourself attractive before he comesi 
 home. fSee that the home looks inviting and yourself 
 
284 WOMAN'S SECRETS 
 
 equally so and he will forget all that has annoyed and 
 worried him during the day. Make your husband an 
 honored guest in the home. Don't save all the clean 
 tablecloths and cut glass for the indifferent chance visitor 
 and think that most anything will do for your husbana. 
 Let him see for himself that there is no one for whom you 
 would take the pains you love to take for him. 
 
 No one admires a good motlier more than a man, but 
 don'fc let your husband feel that in l)eing an ideal mother 
 you are failing in the least little way as the ideal wife. He 
 is handling the big problems of life and can't show quite 
 the same amount of enthusiasm over little Johnnie's first 
 tooth that you do, but don't shut him out completely be- 
 cause of this and don't lose sight of the fact that you were 
 his wife before you were the l)nby's inother. 
 
 Love and religion go hand in hand. No home, espe- 
 cially if there be cliildren in it, is perfect without a proper 
 amount of respect due to religion. Eai'ly home training 
 goes a long way in the formation of character and a child 
 w^ho is taught to lisp his little prayer at night is much 
 better fortified to cope with the vicissitudes of life than 
 one who has never been taught anything of the sort. 
 
 A cold and indifferent attitude of husband and wife 
 toward each other is the worst possible discipline for a 
 child. Home life ought to be full of kind deeds and dem- 
 onstrations of love. Let love's light shine. Seek every 
 
HUSBAND AND WIFE 285 
 
 medmm for its disclosure. Let the children feel that a 
 sacred love permeates the home and you are giving them 
 the right conception of home life. We would almost as 
 lief see children brought up without the ten command- 
 ments as without love in the home. 
 
 So many women wonder why their husbands prefer 
 the club to the home. You who may be pondering over 
 this problem let me ask this question. Have you done 
 everything in your povN^er to make both the home and 
 yourself attractive? This is hard sometimes, especially 
 when there is no maid in the kitchen and the demands 
 upon your time have seemed numberless, but it doesn't 
 take long to slip into a fresh dress and see that your hair 
 is becomingly arranged. We believe it is every woman's 
 duty to make herself at all times as pretty and attractive 
 as possible. It is a sad state of affairs indeed when a 
 wife ceases to strive for her husband's admiration. 
 
 AVonderful fascination is in the little home for two. 
 It may be a wee bit of a cottage with a garden at the back 
 and roses climbing to the eaves. It may be a tiny flat 
 in a city far up toward the roof, but if love exists, what 
 matters the rest if it is crowned and blessed by the pres- 
 ence of a loving wife. The husband's cup of happiness is 
 indeed overflowing. A cheerful, loving welcome, a good 
 dinner seasoned with pleasant chat, a cigar of a favorite 
 brand, and who shall call the master of the house 'irri- 
 table or infer that such a union is not a happy one. 
 
CHAPTER XXXIII. 
 
 LOVER AND SWEETHEART. 
 
 The period of the betrothal is the maytime of life — 
 a promise of radiant fulfillment not unalloyed joy, to be 
 sure — "the course of true love never did run smooth/' 
 Even the sunniest ^May has its storms, though they be as 
 zephyrs unto the storms of later seasons. The lovers' 
 quarrels amount to notliing- to the more sol)er eyes of 
 maturity. 
 
 Too often are the lover and his sweetheart oblivious 
 of the outer world. A certain amount of separation from 
 the more prosaic inmates of their circle is not to be con- 
 demned, but utter forgetfulness of others becomes mere 
 selfishness. A man has no right to monopolize a girl's 
 time to the exclusion of all her other interests. Duty to 
 relations and friends is not less binding because a more 
 dearly loved person has appeared upon the scene. While 
 she is an inmate of her father's house, a girl's first duty 
 is to her parents. 
 
 A lover's respect for his sweetheart is measured by 
 her reserve towards him. "The slip 'tAvixt the cup and 
 the lip" may mean a broken engagement. The kisses lav- 
 ished upon her bethrothed become a source of poignant re- 
 gret if, for any reason, their lovers' vows do not end at 
 the marriage altar. The familiarity of the present day is 
 
LOVER AND SWEETHEART ' 287 
 
 in sad contrast to the respectful reserve of former days. 
 Human affairs are too uncertain to admit of any risk in 
 the matter. The freshness and sweetness of a girl are lost 
 by overindulgence in caresses. 
 
 During the period of courtship the lover should be 
 freely invited to the beloved's home. It is fitting not only 
 that he become acquainted with her, but that her parents 
 be given an opportunity to become acquainted with him. 
 No engagement should be sanctioned until a thorough 
 knowledge of the suitor is obtained. If he is tactfully 
 treated he will be led to reveal himself much more plainly 
 to the father than to the dazzled eyes of the maid. The 
 frequent presence of the girl's parents does much to pre- 
 vent the hypocrisy practiced towards each other. The 
 ever present desire to please causes the lovers to hide 
 their real selves from each other. The faults are deeply 
 hidden under an outward layer of winning sweetness. 
 
 That there is such a thing as ''4ove at first sight" 
 cannot be denied. That it is often the truest love cannot 
 be questioned. As we are often instinctively drawn to or 
 repelled by persons at a first meeting, it is not to be won- 
 dered at that a man and woman immediately see in each 
 other the realization of an ideal. Further companionship 
 may increase or decrease such quickly aroused feelings. 
 The test of love lies in time. 
 
 If the attraction between the lovers is infatuation, it 
 
288 WOMAN'S SECRETS 
 
 will reveal itself in the cold reality of marriage. A girl's 
 lovability as a sweetheart may not be a sure indication 
 of her fitness as a wife. It is for this reason that love 
 affairs that find their beginning in a friendship prove a 
 source of great happiness. The slow growth of such love 
 gives each person concerned sufficient opportunity to dis- 
 cern faults and virtues. Each has a tangible reason for 
 his feelings. ''Love at first sight'' is a product of the 
 emotions; love based upon friendship, of the intellect. Tt 
 is true that the feelings are often tlie best guide, but it is 
 just as true thnt in most cases, tlio intellect is t1)(^ snfc^st 
 one. 
 
 In some cases a long (engagement seems the only 
 possible course. However, if circumstances so arise that 
 marriage cannot take place for a nnniber of years it is 
 better if the persons do not bind themselves. On the 
 other hand, a hasty marriage is greatly to be condemned. 
 A three months engagement may not be too short if the 
 previous acquaintance was long. In the majority of 
 cases a betrothal of a year is advisable. No hard and fast 
 rule can be laid down. The time should be just as long as 
 it takes to satisfy the parents and lovers that the union 
 will be productive of true happiness. 
 
CHAPTER XXIV. 
 
 HOW TO BE BEAUTIFUL. 
 
 The triteness of the saying, ''Beauty depends upon 
 health" does not lessen its truth. The invalidism once so 
 much admired under the name of ''delicacy" is now a 
 thing of the past. To be sure, the fragile beauty has been 
 replaced by the tensely nervous devotees of society, or by 
 the overworked business woman or housewife — a fact to 
 be less deplored because a realization of the uselessness 
 of her condition has come to womankind and a change in 
 the right direction is inevitable. Worry, discontent, and 
 f retfulness tend to lower the general vitality, producing 
 sluggish circulation, indigestion, and a torpid liver, to 
 which many blemishes upon beauty can be traced. Until 
 our homes are simpler and less an object of care and 
 anxiety, until dress is determined by beauty, health and 
 utility rather than fashion's caprice, until our tables are 
 ordered with regard to physical well-being, there will be 
 various forms of nervous diseases and lack of self poise. 
 
 A woman should regard the violation of the laws of 
 health as equally sinful with transgression of moral laws. 
 True beauty can be obtained only by the most careful 
 obedience to nature's rules upon exercise, fresh air, diet, 
 
290 WOMAN'S SECliETS 
 
 clothing, baths and sleep. For a discussion of these we 
 refer to preceding chapters. 
 
 To be well groomed is another requirement to good 
 looks. However, a woman who is well physically usually 
 has enough self respect to pay attention to the minor de- 
 tails which count for so much in preserving a good appear- 
 ance. 
 
 CARE OF THE FACE. 
 
 The condition of the face is dependent upon that of 
 the whole body. Improper diet, lack of exercise, unclean- 
 Imess, any interuMl disorder, lack of sleep, or worry 
 promptly affect the complexion and the expression of the 
 face. Exposure to heal or cold is injurious to delicate 
 skins. Any roughness due to exposure may be given 
 certain relief by the folloAving wash : 
 
 White brandy 2 parts 
 
 Rose-water 1 part 
 
 This lotion is far more valuable than a patent prep- 
 aration, and should be used night and morning. A woman 
 at least knows what she is getting. Prepared patent lo- 
 tions are often put up by quacks and pretenders and when 
 they are not absolutely useless, may be positively injur- 
 ious. Ulcers have often been produced by them. 
 
HOW TO BE BEAUTIFUL 291 
 
 To Remove Pimples.— Some pimples require a doctor's 
 prescription. The small red com.mon pimple may l3e cured 
 by applying the following lotion twice a day : 
 
 Snlplmr water ---- -- -1 ounce 
 
 Accetated licpior of ammonia. ...14 ounce 
 
 Liquor of potassa — -- - 1 ounce 
 
 White wine vinegar .2 ounces 
 
 Distilled water 2 ounces 
 
 These pimples are caused by obstruction of the skin 
 and imperfect circulation, so friction with a coarse towel 
 and exercise to promote the floAv of blood are most bene- 
 ficial. 
 
 To Remove Blackheads. — Blackheads, often called 
 fleshworms. are caused by a clogging of the sebaceous 
 glands. They may be pressed out with an extractor made 
 for the purpose. The pores should first be enlarged by 
 steaming or by hot applications so that consecjuent red- 
 ness and swelling may not be so severe. An astringent, 
 alcohol or some similar lotion, will contract the pores. 
 The blackheads should be extracted at night so the red- 
 ness may have a chance to disappear. They are often the 
 consecpience of indigestion, and the diet may have to be 
 corrected before any permanent cure is effected. Severe 
 friction and the application of the follovring lotion are 
 very efficacious : 
 
292 WOMAN'S SECRETS 
 
 Liquor of potassa 1 ounce 
 
 Cologne 2 ounces 
 
 White brandy 4 ounces 
 
 To Remove Freckles. — A very good lotion for freckles 
 is that used by the celebrated Madame de Maintenon. 
 
 Venice soap 1 ounce 
 
 Lemon juice 1/2 ounce 
 
 Oil of bitter almonds ^/4 ounce 
 
 Deliquidated oil of tartar i/4 ounce 
 
 Oil of rhodium 3 drops 
 
 Dissolve the soap in the lemon juice; add the oils; 
 place the whole in the sun till it acquires the consistency 
 of ointment; add the oil of rhodium. Anoint the face at 
 night, washing off in the morning with pure water, or with 
 a mixture of elder-flower and rose-water. 
 
 To Remove Tan. — An excellent lotion for tan is made 
 of 
 
 New milk -.-- --^/2 pii^t 
 
 Lemon juice Vi ounce 
 
 White brandy : Y^ ounce 
 
 Boil the whole, skim it clear fi'om all scum and use 
 night and morning. 
 
 To Remove Yellow Spots. — To cure yellow spots due 
 to liver or stomach trouble medicinal treatment is neces- 
 
HOW TO BE BEAUTIFUL 293 
 
 sary. A useful wash to be applied three or four times a 
 
 day is 
 
 Strong sulphur water 1 ounce 
 
 Lemon juice % ounce 
 
 Cinnamon water — 1 dram 
 
 To Remove and Prevent Wrinkles. — The best pre- 
 ventive of wrinkles is a reposeful, self-controlled life. 
 Indulgence in worry, anger, envy, or discontent soon sets 
 its seal upon the countenance. Late hours or dissipation 
 of any sort are an inducement to wrinkles. Massage with 
 some good cold cream may prove valuable. The rubbing 
 must be across the lines. Frequent ablutions and rubbing 
 with a dry napkin are of use in the prevention of prema- 
 ture lines. 
 
 To Remove Superfluous Hair. — The only sure way 
 of removing superfluous hair is by electrolysis. Any prep- 
 aration of drugs acts as does the razor — it removes tem- 
 porarily and a heavier growth appears. Many prepara- 
 tions cause ulcers to appear. 
 
 Care of the Mouth and Lips. — The beauty of the 
 mouth depends primarily upon its expression. Its color- 
 ing may be improved by the use of tincture of benzoin, 
 but it will be only harmed by the use of paint. Nothing 
 is farther from loveliness than artificiality and nothing is 
 
294 WOMAN'S SECRETS 
 
 more artificial than paint, or, it may be added, more easily 
 detected. 
 
 To be sure of a sweet and clean looking mouth one 
 must pay close attention to the cleanliness of the teeth. 
 The brush is not the only necessary implement. A very 
 valuable acquisition to the toilet table is a spool of tooth 
 silk. A brush with irregular bristles on is the best. The 
 teeth should be brushed up and down to every side, and 
 the silk thread pushed up l)etween them to I'emove any 
 particles of food. 
 
 There are a number of good tooth powders, pastes, 
 and w^ashes upon the market, as well as some very unde- 
 sirable ones. A powder should not be gritty or rough. 
 Pumice stone should be used sparingly about once a month 
 to remove any accunuilation of tartar. Equal parts of 
 hydrogen and listerine make a pleasing mouth-wash and 
 one that will destroy the infecting power of germs. 
 
 Above all do not neglect decaying teeth. Nothing is 
 more detrimental to digestion. A visit to the dentist at 
 an early period may save doctor's bills as well. Decay- 
 ing substances give rise to fetid breath. Apreparation 
 which will remove this odor is diluted listerine. It 
 is best to buy listerine prepared by some manufacturing 
 chemist, as it is often impossible for a druggist to prepare 
 it properly. If you are going to wash the teeth but once 
 
HOW TO BE BEAUTIFUL 295 
 
 a day by all means do it at night. The acids in the mouth 
 are much more active during sleep than in the daytime. 
 
 Care of the Ears. — A good preparation for removing 
 wax from the ear is hydrogen peroxide diluted with water. 
 Remove the wax by syringing. Never put any metal sub- 
 stance in the ear to remove it. Instead, put in a few 
 drops of warm olive oil at night and stop with a little cot- 
 ton to prevent it flowing out. Be careful to remove the 
 cotton. 
 
 Care of the Eyes. — To preserve the brilliancy of the 
 eyes never overstrain them. Do not read when lying 
 down, in moving cars, or when the eyes are tired. Sties 
 and inflamed lids may be relieved by bathing the eyes fre- 
 quently with two parts hot water to one part of boric 
 lotion. Absorbent cotton dipped into the solution may 
 be packed on the eyes at night. Oiled silk will keep in the 
 heat. If the lids stick together in the morning smear an 
 ointment over them. To stimulate the growth of the 
 eyebrows rub in a little Avarm oil or ointment. 
 
 Care of the Nose. — A red nose is frequently caused 
 by indigestion or some trouble inside it. It should be 
 bathed every night in very hot water. Powder does harm 
 by causing inflammation. The nose may be washed out 
 by means of a douche, but never should be syringed out 
 because the fluid may cause deafness by running into the 
 ears. 
 
296 WOMAN'S SECRETS 
 
 CARE OF THE HAIR. 
 
 Constant brushing is the secret of fine glossy hair. 
 An easy method of cleansing brushes is to dip them 
 in a bowl of water containing a small portion of am- 
 monia. This immediately removes any grease and stiffens 
 the bristles as well. Rinse in two or three clear waters. 
 The comb should be coarse toothed and of smooth black 
 rubber. Never use a fine comb. Its use will injure the 
 hair and do little good. 
 
 Lotions are seldom efficacious iu the prevention of 
 baldness and discoloration of the hair. A massage of the 
 head is valuable at infrequent periods, but should not be 
 carried to excess. Indeed, Mrs. James Brown Potter 
 ascribes the fact that men are more frequently bald than 
 women to the fact that they indulge in much more fre- 
 quent treatments. Simple cleanliness, frequent brushing, 
 and occasional massage are the only necessary measures. 
 However, if one desires a lotion, the following has been 
 proven good: 
 
 Cologne 8 ounces 
 
 Tincture of Cantharides 1 ounce 
 
 Oil of Lavender % dram 
 
 Oil of Rosemary I/2 dram 
 
 The hair should be washed not oftener than once in 
 four weeks. If it becomes too oily without a more fre- 
 
HOW TO BE BEAUTIFUL 297 
 
 qiient shampoo, powdered orris root will be found an 
 excellent cleanser, and one which imparts a delightful 
 odor to the hair as well. It may be rubbed in the scalp 
 and brushed out carefully. It is best to use castile soap 
 when washing the hair. A good shampoo consists of raw 
 eggs rubbed into the scalp. 
 
 The use of hair dyes is much to be deplored for they 
 are usually so evident. A simple, harmless lotion to 
 restore color to grey hair is made of equal amounts of 
 powdered walnuts and alum which should be allowed to 
 stand for forty-eight hours, then be heated in a moder- 
 ately hot oven with a pint of olive, cottonseed or other 
 oil. till no more steam comes off. Then press out the pulp 
 and put the liquid into jars for use. 
 
 CARE OP THE HANDS. 
 
 A well groomed hand is certainly a thing of beauty 
 whether it be large or small. True, it takes a little time 
 which a tired woman often begrudges, but the result of 
 slight attention is extremely satisfying. Each night the 
 hands should be scrubbed with a hand-brush — take care 
 to brush the cuticle toward the wrist. Thoroughly dry 
 them and there will be no danger of chapping. Kub any 
 good cold cream into the base of the nails to soften the 
 cuticle which should be pushed back from the nails but 
 
298 WOMAN'S SECRETS 
 
 never cut. The nails should be trimmed to correspond to 
 the outline of the fingers. Do not cut them too close. A 
 chopped-off appearance is certainly unbecoming. If the 
 nails are polished oftener than once a week they will be- 
 come brittle. Rubbing them upon the palms of the hands 
 after washing will restore their l)ri]liancy. If a woman 
 wishes to keep her hands soft and white she may find it 
 necessary to wear rul)ber gloves during hei* work. A good 
 lotion to api)ly at night is 
 
 Glycerine 2 ounces 
 
 Rosewater .... : 1 dram 
 
 Alcohol 4 drams 
 
 Tincture of Benzoin 20 drops 
 
 or 
 Spermaceti (melted) 1 dram 
 
 Almond oil 1 ounce 
 
 Powdered camphor 1 dram 
 
 Lanolin ^/4 ounce 
 
CHAPTER XXXV. 
 
 GOLDEN RULES. 
 
 '^ Don't make any affectionate demonstrations in pub- 
 lic places. How ridiculous for women to meet on the 
 street and fondly embrace each other." 
 
 ''Remember, perfect health is better than gold, — 
 therefore, don't abuse nature." 
 
 ''Beauty and bad breath can not go together no 
 matter how a woman may try to make them." 
 
 "Women should keep young in both spirit and ap- 
 pearance." 
 
 "Every woman has three inalienable rights: life, lib- 
 erty, and the pursuit of a husband." 
 
 "Be natural and you will never be ridiculous." 
 
 "It is not always the most active woman to whom 
 men owe the most. There are women who by their very 
 serenity, their calm strength of character, instill into 
 man the deepest courage." 
 
 "The most charming women are not beautiful, but 
 beautiful women charm when they forget their beauty." 
 
 "Let all wives beware of pulling too hard upon the 
 matrimonial yoke: it looks stronger than it is." 
 
300 WOMAN'S SECKETS 
 
 ^' Every time a wife makes a scene through jealousy 
 she tightens the chain of any rival who may exist." 
 
 ''It is not always beauty, position or youth that 
 elect women social queens. There is a gift better than 
 either, — tact.'' 
 
 ''Modesty is the unmatchable jewel of woman." 
 
 "A woman need not consider herself so marvelously 
 clever who wins a man ; any woman may do that; she only 
 is clever who can keep him." 
 
 "vSome of the most beautiful love stories are lived far 
 from the roar of cities, where love means love and doubt 
 seems infamy." 
 
 "Woman may combine every grace of mind and 
 body, yet lacking in gift of expression, she need never 
 hope to become popular." 
 
 "Man loves where he must; women must love — some; 
 where." 
 
 "Woman's greatest fault.— ? ?????????" 
 
 "What a woman wants and Avhat she needs are con- 
 stantly warring with Avhat she can afford." 
 
 "Woman has put more spokes in the wheel of destiny 
 than the Gods contemplated." 
 
 "There can be no friendship without truth, but there 
 can be a deal of truth without one grain of friendship." 
 
GOLDEN RULES 301 
 
 '^Politeness is a gilt edged instrument that seldom 
 fails to be rewarded.'' 
 
 •^To marry and rear children, to become useful cit- 
 izens is a location' even a clever woman might consider 
 worth her while.'' 
 
 ''Women of very high intellectual attainments are 
 swayed by strongest passions, though few will admit it." 
 
 " 'Where shall I find happiness?' asked a timid soul. 
 'Next door to content/ replied one who knew." 
 
 "Until wives consider it worth while to be as interest- 
 ing as sweethearts husbands will not consider home as 
 attractive as the club." 
 
 "When I learn that husband and wife never quarre! 
 I know that indifference has set in and after that — 
 the deluge." 
 
 "A beautiful woman delights the eye; a wise woman, 
 the understanding ; a pure woman the soul. ' ' 
 
 "After marriage is the time for a woman to give 
 especial attention to her appearance." 
 
 "How wonderful is that woman who continues to be 
 her husband's sweetheart through life." 
 
 "The only sort of love untinged by doubt is love of a 
 good mother." 
 11 - 
 
302 WOMAN'S SECRETS 
 
 ''To control a man a woman must first control her- 
 self." 
 
 ''When the final record shall be made clear I think 
 we shall be greatly amazed to see how alike in their frail- 
 ties were men and women." 
 
 " 'Tis well to remember that the highest culture is to 
 speak no ill." 
 
PART II 
 
 Devoted to the Symptoms and Treatment of 
 
 Diseases of Women and Children 
 
 including care of the Baby 
 
In the prepartion of Part II, as in other 
 jiortionvS of the book, my wife's assistance has 
 been invaluable, and as a token of love and 
 appreciation of her constant and untiring ef- 
 forts, I wish to mention that much of the 
 credit is due her. 
 
A 
 
 iV\ 
 
 V 
 
 ''What a piece of work is woman I How noble in reason I 
 How infinite in faculty I In action how like an angel I In ap- 
 prehension how like a'^Godl The beauty of the world." 
 
SIGNS AND SYMPTOMS OF PREGNANCY. 
 
 Generally speaking, it is not difficult to ascertain 
 whether or not a woman is jDregnant. She is usually 
 aware of her true condition before she consults a phys- 
 ician. However, in a few cases it is impossible to state 
 with absolute certainty that she is pregnant. 
 
 It is often important to learn if a woman is pregnant 
 after she misses her first menstruation ; but unfortunately 
 it is just at this period that the diagnosis is most difficult 
 as the positive signs are not present at this time. 
 
 There are certain signs and symptoms which give 
 evidence of pregnancy, and we will mention those which 
 can be noted and considered by the patient herself. 
 
 1. Menstruation Stops. — This is very significant, es- 
 pecially in women who have been regular, and from this 
 fact alone the maojrity of married women do not hesi- 
 tate to diagnose their own cases. In women who do 
 not menstruate regularly, this symptom is not so val- 
 uable, as certain diseases will cause menstruation to stop 
 for several months and during this time conception may 
 occur. In a few cases menstruation may occur once after 
 a woman becomes pregnant. If this does occur, the flow 
 is generally less than at other times. Yery rarely does 
 
308 WOMAN'S SECRETS 
 
 the menstrual flow appear more than once after pregnancy 
 has taken place. If it does, the indications are that there 
 is some diseased condition present. 
 
 2. Changes in the Breasts. — Pregnancy causes a 
 marked change in the breasts. During the first few weeks 
 there is a sense of tenderness and a pricking sensation. 
 After the second month the glands begin to enlarge and 
 one can often notice small blue veins just under the skin. 
 The skin around the nipple becomes darker in color and 
 the colored ring around the nipple enlarges. In blonds 
 it acquires a pinkish cast while in brunettes it is a very 
 dark brown. There are also little glands in this colored 
 ring which enlarge and form little nodules. The nipple 
 increases in size, become darker, and stands out moi-e. 
 During the first few months n tliin yellowish fluid may be 
 made to ooze from them l)y gentle massage. These 
 changes are more characteristic in the first pregnancy. 
 
 3. Nausea and Vomiting or Morning Sickness. — 
 
 There occurs in the pregnant woman more or less dis- 
 turbance of the digestive organs, especially affecting the 
 stomach. This causes a sick feeling which usually occurs 
 early in the morning and passes off after a few hours. In 
 some cases it lasts all day and causes a great deal of 
 annoyance, causing a condition known as uncontrolled 
 vomiting in pregnancy. This sickness usually makes its 
 first appearance about the end of the first month and 
 
PKEGNANCY 309 
 
 lasts about eight weeks. It varies from a slight nausea 
 to a severe and .continuous vomiting. About two-thirds 
 of all pregnant women suffer from this more or less. 
 
 4. Quickening. — This is the time during pregnancy 
 when a woman feels life for the first time. It is a flutter- 
 ing sensation in the abdomen and is caused by the move- 
 ments of the child. This may be noticed as early as the 
 tenth week, but usually occurs between the fourth and 
 fifth month. Some women cannot tell when they first feel 
 life, so this symptom, like the others, cannot always be 
 relied upon. 
 
 5. Changes Which Occur in the Vulva and Vagina. 
 
 —The mucous membrane of the vulva and the opening 
 into the vagina have a congested appearance during preg- 
 nancy and the color is of a dark blue or purple hue. It 
 is of value when associated with other symptoms. 
 
 6. Bladder Irritation. — AVhen pregnancy occurs the 
 uterus enlarges and tips slightly forward, thus resting 
 upon the bladder and causing a frequent desire to urinate. 
 This is most frequently noticed at the beginning of preg- 
 nancy and passes off as the uterus ascends into the abdom- 
 inal cavity, but recurs again when the head of the child 
 descends into the pelvis a few weeks before confinement. 
 
 7. Cravings. — A pregnant woman generally has a 
 peculiar desire for various kinds of food, some craving 
 
 llA— 
 
310 WOMAN'S SECRETS 
 
 one article of diet, while others crave things entirely dif- 
 ferent. There is also a mental change in women at this 
 time. It is varied and no two are affected in the same 
 manner. 
 
INSTRUCTIONS FOR THE PREGNANT WOMAN. 
 
 Pregnane}^ being a normal condition slionld not make 
 any serions change in the general health. Yet, oftentimes 
 complications arise and it is necessary to keep snch a 
 l^atient nnder close observation during the early months 
 of pregnancy. A woman should engage her physician 
 that he may keep her case under observation and give her 
 the necessary advice in regard to her mode of life during 
 pregnancy. It is not necessary for a woman to change 
 her general mode of living to any great extent and the 
 one main object in view is to keep her general health at 
 its very best. Her physician should be a person in whom 
 she has complete confidence as to his ability to handle 
 her case successfully and she should take advice from 
 him; should consult him in regard to her case and should 
 not take advice from her lady friends; especially is this 
 true of a woman during her first pregnancy. 
 
 The fact that she is in the hands of a competent and 
 careful physician will contribute largely to her peace of 
 mind as well as to her general health. 
 
 Exercise. — During pregnancy a woman should be 
 encouraged to live out of doors as much as possible: it 
 is difficult to say just the amount of exercise she should 
 take, but it should not tire her. Such exercise should 
 
312 WOMAN'S SECRETS 
 
 consist of walking, driving and a certain amount of rid- 
 ing and automobiling, especially if it is an easy car; this 
 is advisable in the early months of pregnancy, but not so 
 much in the latter part. When a patient cannot take the 
 proper amount of outdoor exercise she should take a cer- 
 tain amount of massage in the hands of a competent oper- 
 ator which will be found of much value. She should take 
 frequent salt rubs and keep her skin in the very best 
 condition possible by occasional hot baths in the evening 
 and cold sponges followed by vigorous rubbing in the 
 morning. 
 
 Diet. — The patient should follow her ordinary routine 
 of diet to which she is accustomed but she should refrain 
 from too highly seasoned foods Avhich are hard to digest. 
 The healthy child is developed by the mother keeping 
 her digestive system in the very best condition possible 
 and she should have an abundance of good food. 
 
 Habits.— The habits of a pregnant woman should 
 be that of the very best during her pregnancy. Her 
 associations should be pleasant ; she should not have any 
 worry or anxiety of any nature. She should develop a 
 taste for good reading and be surrounded with all the 
 comforts that it is possible for her to secure. The uterus 
 is oftentimes enlarged and interferes with the movements 
 of the bowels and produces constipation. It is necessary 
 for the bowels to move daily and it is best accomplished 
 
PREGNANCY 313 
 
 by taking a teaspoonfnl of Kasagra three or four times 
 a day. Active cathartics and pills should not be used. 
 Any other cathartic should be prescribed by the attend- 
 ing physician. Moderate sexual intercourse during the 
 first few months of pregnancy possibly does no harm, 
 yet, it should be indulged in very sparingly and positively 
 forbidden in the last months. 
 
 Clothing. — The clothing should be so arranged and 
 worn that it will cause but very little, if any, pressure on 
 the waist, especially in the latter months of pregnancy. 
 It is best at this time to dispense with corsets and wear a 
 loose-fitting corset waist. In some cases where the abdo- 
 men is very large and especially in women who have had 
 a number of children it is well to wear an abdominal sup- 
 port. A Storm Abdominal Binder answers the purpose 
 very well. When large veins occur in the limbs the leg 
 should be bandaged or an elastic stocking worn. Some- 
 times these veins are located about the vulva and rupture 
 during confinement. 
 
 The Urine.— The frequency that kidney trouble 
 complicates labor makes it necessary that the urine should 
 be carefully examined at regular intervals, at least once 
 a month for the first seven months and the last two months 
 on the first and fifteenth of each month. This is very im- 
 portant and will often prevent a most dangerous eompli- 
 
314 WOMAN'S SECRETS 
 
 cation, and a patient who has symptoms such as scanty 
 flow of urine, headaches, swelling of the feet or face or 
 loss of blood no matter how slight, or constipation should 
 immediately notify her physician. Six weeks before the 
 date of confinement the expectant mother should pur- 
 chase a confinement outfit and also what things are needed 
 for the baby. This is fully considered under that head- 
 ing. Her physician should be consulted about a month 
 before the date of the expected confinement in order that 
 he may make a thorough examination and note any al)- 
 normal condition which may be present. 
 
WHEN A PREGNANT WOMAN SHOULD CONSULT 
 A PHYSICIAN. 
 
 As soon as the symptoms of pregnancy develop, a 
 Avoman slionld consult a physician and place her case 
 under his care. During the period of pregnancy if there 
 is a discharge from the vagina, s^velling of the legs, con- 
 stant vomiting, stomach trouble, varicose veins, rectal 
 trouble, bearing-down sensation, constipation, diarrhoea, 
 headache, especially when there is dimness of the sight, 
 or when the nipples are abnormally formed, she should 
 notify her physician at once. 
 
 SIGNS OF LABOR AND PREPARATION OF THE 
 
 PATIENT. 
 
 Pain is the usual sign that labor is beginning. It is 
 intermittant and of a bearing-down nature generally be- 
 ginning in the back and descending to the lower part of 
 the abdomen. It increases in frec|uency and occurs at 
 regular intervals. Sometimes the first symptom is a sud- 
 den gush of water. Especially is this true in some cases 
 of premature birth. In a case of this kind notify your 
 physician before the pains begin. If the pains continue 
 and the patient is satisfied that labor is in progress she 
 should prepare her person. The bowels and bladder 
 
316 WOMAN'S SECRETS 
 
 should be perfectly empty.- Take an enema consisting 
 of a pint or two of warm soapy water and retain as long 
 as possible to empty the lower bowel. This should be 
 done if the bowels have recently moved as it is neces- 
 sary to have the rectum empty. The hips and genitals 
 should be thoroughly bathed with soap and Avater and 
 then thoroughly washed with lysol solution. Do not 
 take a douche unless ordered by the nurse or physician. 
 If the hair on the genitals is very long it should be 
 clipped so the parts may be rendered thoroughly anti- 
 septic. 
 
 THE CONFINEMENT. 
 
 In preparing the room for a confinement select one 
 that is upstairs and has a southern exposure. It is best 
 to have it devoid of carpets and draperies, but if the 
 room has a carpet it should be protected by several sheets 
 of wrapping paper or paper of any kind. If possible, a 
 couch should be provided for the nurse. 
 
 The patient should occupy an ordinary bed with a 
 good solid mattress. If a bed is procured for the occa- 
 sion, it is well to get a three-quarter bed. The nurse 
 should have in readiness an abundance of linen, old 
 linen being preferable. A rubber sheet should be placed 
 on top of the mattress over which is placed the lower 
 sheet and this should be covered by the draw sheet which 
 
CONFINEMENT 317 
 
 is made by folding a common sheet. The draw sheet 
 and the rubber sheet should both be pinned to the mat- 
 tress at each corner. This will prevent the sheets from 
 slipping and will keep them smooth beneath the patient. 
 Two hot water bottles should be in readiness. 
 
 THE NECESSARY ARTICLES. 
 
 Make a half dozen pads out of cheesecloth and ab- 
 sorbent cotton. They should be about thirty inches 
 square and about two inches in thickness. These pads 
 should be basted through the center and tied as the 
 ordinary comfort is. Cut from cheesecloth three dozen 
 pieces about six or eight inches square, fold, and pin 
 around them a piece of old muslin. These together with 
 the pads should be baked in an oven half an hour each 
 day for two or three days prior to the confinement. They 
 should not be opened until ready for use. 
 
 A rubber sheet one by two yards and six or eight 
 sheets of large heavy brown wrapping paper should be at 
 hand to place under the patient and on the floor. 
 
 One bed-pan. 
 
 One three-quart fountain syringe. 
 
 One bottle colored Corrosive Sublimate tablets. 
 
 One small bottle Chloroform. 
 
 Two papers each of large and small safetypiiis. 
 
 One eight-ounce package of absorbent cotton. 
 
318 WOMAN'S SECRETS 
 
 Two yards of unbleached cotton. 
 
 Three ounces saturated solution of Boracic acid. 
 
 Eight ounces pure olive oil. 
 
 One ounce Ergot. 
 
 One strand of braided silk. 
 
 Four ounces Lysol. 
 
 Two porcelain or granite pans or two ordinary wash 
 bowls. 
 
 Two pitchers. 
 
 Five yards of sterih^ gauze. 
 
 White castile soap. 
 
 One medicine glass. 
 
 One teaspoon. 
 
 One can Squibb ^s Talcum Powder. 
 
 One quart of vinegar which has been boiled. 
 
 At least two gallons of boiled water. This should 
 be prepared as soon as the confinement l)egins and should 
 be boiled half an hour. It should be set aside to cool, 
 but do not pour cold water into it. It would be well to 
 have a small quanity of ice on hand as it may be neces- 
 sary. 
 
 CARE OF THE MOTHER AFTER CONFINEMENT. 
 
 After the patient has been made comfortable by 
 removing all soiled linen, the parts should be thoroughly 
 cleansed with lysol solution (one teaspoonful to a quart 
 
CONFINEMENT 319 
 
 of water). Following this, a vulva pad made of cotton 
 wrapped in sterile gauze is put in place. This should be 
 held in position by a T bandage. The vulva pad should 
 be changed often enough to keep the parts perfectly 
 clean, as this is very essential. 
 
 The Binder. — This is a bandage which extends from 
 the umbilicus down below the hips and is applied immedi- 
 ately after delivery. It is used as a support for the abdo- 
 minal wall and possibly tends to reduce the patient's 
 figure to its original condition. It is not believed that 
 it has any influence in causing the uterus to contract 
 and should be left on only a short time ; however it should 
 not be applied until after the uterus has contracted and 
 all danger of hemorrhage is past. 
 
 Afterpains. — As a general rule afterpains do not 
 give any serious trouble and they ofttimes assist in caus- 
 ing the uterus to contract. If any medicine is given it 
 should be prescribed by the attending physician. These 
 pains occur most frequently in first confinements when 
 the uterus has been subject to great distention. 
 
 Rest. — As soon as the toilet of the patient has been 
 completed and the binder applied the room should be 
 darkened and she should be encouraged to sleep. All 
 visitors should be excluded for the first few days and the 
 patient should be kept as quiet as possible for about ten 
 
320 WOMAN'S SECRETS 
 
 days. However, she may be permitted to move freely 
 and may be propped up during her meals. She should 
 not lie upon her back as it has a tendency to cause back- 
 ward displacement of the uterus. She should lie on her 
 sides and change positions quite often. 
 
 Diet. — A good liberal diet is allowed after the bowels 
 have moved and the patient should take plenty of good 
 nourishing food. A good hot drink of any kind that she 
 prefers should be given shortly after labor is over. Dur- 
 ing the first twenty-four hours the diet should be com- 
 posed of tea, coffee, cocoa, milk and soft buttered toast. 
 This is about all the patient will care for. On the second 
 day soups, poached eggs, and raw oysters may be added. 
 After that the diet may be increased each day with chick- 
 en, fish, baked potatoes, rice, etc., until the regular diet 
 can be given. 
 
 Bowels. — A mild cathartic should be administered on 
 the second day unless the bowels move of their own ac- 
 cord before that time. A dose of any of the following 
 may be given: A half ounce of Rochelle's Salts in a 
 small quantity of water; a half bottle of Citrate of Mag- 
 nesia; or a half ounce of caster oil. After the bowels 
 move the first time they should move regularly every 
 day. If they do not move of their own accord, give a tea- 
 spoonful of Kasagra at bedtime. Some patients do well 
 
CONFINEMENT 321 
 
 on Phenolax, one tablet at bedtime, or one or two 
 teaspoonfiils of Compound Licorice Powder. After each 
 movement of the bowels and after urinating the parts 
 should be irrigated and washed with pledgets of cotton 
 soaked in lysol solution. 
 
 The Temperature.— The temperature should be care- 
 fully watched during the first few days to note if there 
 is any infection taking place. The physician should be 
 notified at once if there is any rise in temperature. 
 
 The Kidneys — The patient should urmate within six 
 hours after delivery. When she is unable to do so she 
 should be catheterized, but this should not be done until 
 the bladder forms quite a tumor above the pelvic bone 
 and when the patient feels a desire to urinate prop her up 
 in a sitting position. This is better than resorting to 
 catheterization as ofttimes when this is once done it must 
 be continued for several days. However, if the patient 
 must be catheterized, it should be done by the physician 
 or a trained nurse. 
 
 Time to Rise from the Confinement Bed. — It is im- 
 possible to set any fixed date for allowing the patient to 
 sit up. Most women figure that ten days is the proper 
 time, but she should be kept in bed until the uterus is 
 well contracted, and in normal cases it takes six weeks 
 for the uterus to regain its normal size. Therefore, two 
 
322 WOMAN'S SECRETS 
 
 weeks in bed is not too long for the ordinary case. If 
 there are complications or the patient is unusually weak, a 
 much longer time should be spent in bed. The best 
 method is for the patient to sit up an hour the first 
 day, two hours the second day, and so on, increasing the 
 time an hour each day until she is able to be up all the 
 time. She should be kept in her room three weeks and 
 during the fourth week may be allowed to move about, 
 but should not go below stairs until this time. In some 
 cases the duties of the housewife compel her to disregard 
 some of these orders, but they are imperative if a woman 
 expects to regain her health and keep it. 
 
 Before the patient is discharged the physician should 
 make a final examination to ascertain if everything is all 
 right and no treatments are required. 
 
CARE OF THE NIPPLES AND BREASTS BEFORE 
 AND AFTER CONFINEMENT. 
 
 The responsibility of caring for the nipples and 
 breasts is borne in most cases by the mother or nurse. The 
 attending physician expects her to keep them in a normal 
 condition, thus preventing abscesses from forming; this 
 is a very unfortunate complication which causes the 
 patient much suffering and may result in artificial feed- 
 ing. It is greatly to be deplored if a mother cannot nurse 
 her infant and no effort should be spared to prevent such 
 a misfortune. Therefore the breasts and nipples should 
 be given special care and attention before and after con- 
 finement. 
 
 Care of Nipples Before Confinement. — During the 
 
 latter months of pregnancy wash the nipples with soap 
 
 l_Normal. 2— Flat 3— Retracted. 
 
 Fig. 129 
 
 and water often enough to keep them free from any 
 crusts. After washing them apply a small amount of 
 sterile vaseline and cocoa butter ecpial parts. If the nip- 
 ples are short and retracted. Fig. 129, 2 and 3, they 
 
324 WOMAN'S SECRETS 
 
 should be pulled upon daily with the fingers. This will 
 elongate them and render them fit for nursing. The 
 breast pump, Fig. 130, may be used for this purpose 
 but the suction should not be applied with too much 
 force. 
 
 5 
 
 Fig-. 130 — Breast Pump used to develop the nipples. 
 
 To toughen the skin of the nipple wash it daily with 
 a solution of alcohol and witchhazel, equal parts. In the 
 case of blondes with very tender skin, paint the nipples 
 three or four times a week with the tannate of glycerine. 
 Any druggist will prepare this for you and it should 
 be applied with a feather or camel's hair brush. Handle 
 
COXFINEilEXT 325 
 
 the nipple gently at all times and if it is normal size it 
 should not be massaged or pulled. 
 
 During pregnancy the clothing should be arranged 
 so that there will be no pressure on the nipples^ and if 
 the breasts are large and heavy they shoidd be supported 
 with the elastic breast supporter. 
 
 Sore Nipples After Confinement. — This painful con- 
 dition occurs more fi-equently in first confinements and 
 in women whose nipples have been flattened by wearing 
 tight clothing. Or it may be that they have not received 
 proper treatment before confinement. In some cases the 
 nipple is deformed. Fig. 131. 
 
 1 — Polyoid. 2 — Mulberry 3 — Split 
 Figr- 131- 
 
 Excoriations of the Nipple. — Tlii.> is a peeling oflf of 
 the delicate skin which covers the nipple and it is caused 
 by the friction of the baby^s tongue and lips while nurs- 
 ing. It is the raw surface with small elevations (papil- 
 la ted) and is a strawberry color. The sore may be large 
 enough to cover the entire nipple. It is very painful 
 and often bleeds when the scabs are removed. To stop 
 the irritation a nipple shield. Fig. 132, should be used. 
 
326 
 
 WOMAN'S SECRETS 
 
 This is the best form of shield. It should be taken apart 
 after each nursing, thoroughly Avashed and kept in a tum- 
 bler of saturated solution of boracic acid. It should be 
 thoroughly boiled once a day and should be washed with 
 sterile water each time before it is used. 
 
 Babies decline at first to nurse the sliield; but if hot 
 applications are applied to the breast to assist the flow 
 of milk and the shield is tightly applied to the breast and 
 partly filled with milk pressed from the breast by the 
 fingers, your efforts will almost always be crowned with 
 success if you are persistent. 
 
 Fig-. 132 — The Acme nipple shield, to protect sore nipple when baby 
 nurses. 
 
 After each nursing gently wash the nipple with a 
 saturated solution of boracic acid. Dry well and apply 
 the compound tincture of benzoin on the inflamed sur- 
 
CONFINEMENT 
 
 327 
 
 face with a camel's hair brush or feather. Apply two 
 or three thin layers at each treatment, then apply an 
 ointment composed of caster oil and Balsam of Peru, 
 one dram each, and enough lanoline to make one ounce. 
 Sterilize before using. Before baby nurses again wash 
 the nipples with a saturated solution of boracic acid 
 followed by sterile water. Also wash out the baby's 
 mouth. 
 
 Fig. 133 — Bandage properly applied for distended breasts. 
 
 Continue this treatment until the nipple is perfectly 
 healed. If treated early it is usually relieved in from 
 twenty-four to forty-eight hours. If for any reason the 
 
328 
 
 WOMAN'S SECRETS 
 
 shield cannot be used, apply the above treatment as di- 
 rected, omitting the use of the shield, but if possible it 
 should be used. 
 
 Fissures or Cracks on the Top of the Nipple. — These 
 cracks or fissures are extremely painful and generally 
 bleed during nursing. The treatment is about the same 
 as for excoriations; that is, the shield is used and the 
 
 Fig. 134 — This is the best form of a ])reast pump to use. Care must 
 be used in its application not to injure the nipple or breast. 
 
 nipple is washed l)efore and aftei* nursing. The fissure 
 should be gently washed with a two per cent, solution of 
 nitrate of silver each night and morning. At all other 
 times use the compound tincture of benzoin as directed in 
 the treatment of excoriations. Fissures of this kind heal 
 rapidly. 
 
 Fissures or Cracks at the Base of the Nipple. — These 
 cracks are usually on the under side of the nipple where 
 
CONFINEMENT 329 
 
 it is joined to the breast. The treatment is about the 
 same as for fissures on the top of the nipple. In addition 
 to the other treatment apply an eight per cent, solution 
 of nitrate of silver to the fissure. The best applicator is 
 a little cotton wound on a toothpick. This treatment 
 should be applied until the sore assumes a healthy ap- 
 pearance, then use only the tincture of benzoin com- 
 pound as for excoriations. Put a small piece of sterile 
 gauze or medicated cotton just under the nipple to keep 
 it from touching the breast so that the surface of the 
 fissures will not be irritated. Put castor oil and Balsam 
 of Peru, equal parts, on the gauze or cotton so it will not 
 adhere to the sore. The nipple shield will not relieve the 
 pain in every case and can be used only when it does not 
 fulh^ open the crack. Cracks of this nature are very 
 troublesome and slow to heal. Consult your physician if 
 this treatment does not give relief. 
 
 DISEASES OF THE BREAST. 
 
 Distention of the Breast. — The most common dis- 
 orders affecting the breasts are distention and engorge- 
 ment. When they become so distended with milk that 
 they are painful, feel hard, and lap over on the patient's 
 sides they must be supported by a well fitting bandage, 
 Fig. 133. 
 
330 WOMAN'S SECRETS 
 
 How to Apply the Bandage. — Take a piece of outing 
 flannel fourteen inches wide and about a yard long and 
 fold upon itself and place next to the skin on the back 
 and sides. Have the patient or an assistant hold the 
 breasts well up on the chest. The ends of the bandage 
 should come within about one inch of the nipple when 
 the breasts are well drawn up. If necessary, fold the 
 ends under. Put a little cotton between the breasts if 
 they touch and under the ends of the binder on the out- 
 side. Take another piece of outing flannel six inches wide 
 and one yard long and fold and cut in the middle. Pin 
 to the corners and ends of the wider band as illustrated. 
 Insert two pins close to the edge of the chest binder. 
 The double edge should be next to the nipples. Bring 
 one slip above the breast and the other below, pin same 
 on opposite sides and attach shoulder strap. This does 
 not cause any pressure on the nipples and they are free 
 for nursing without removing the binder. The binder 
 and nursing the child are all that are required in most 
 cases to reduce the distention which gradually disappears 
 in a few hours. 
 
 Engorged Breasts. — When nursing and the binder 
 does not relieve the distended condition and the breasts 
 become harder, larger, heavier, and also knotty, very 
 tense, hot and tender, we have the second degree of dis- 
 
CONFINEMENT 331 
 
 tention known as engorgement. For this condition use 
 the bandage, breast pnmp, Fig. 134, and hot applications, 
 ]\rassao'e the breasts as directed. 
 
 HOW TO MASSAGE THE BREASTS. 
 
 Apply to the breasts a towel first wrung out of a 
 hot Boracic acid solution and then hot sterile olive oil. 
 This will render the skin quite slippery. Now massage 
 with the finger tips as directed. 
 
 First Motion. — Begin with the finger tips well out- 
 side the edge of the breast and stroke gently and in such 
 a way that the finger tips will terminate at the nipple, 
 Fig. 135. Massage the whole surface in this way, paying 
 special attention to any affected part. 
 
 Fig. 135 — Showing First Motion for massaging the breast, using the 
 upward stroke, finger tips open. 
 
332 WOMAN'S SECRETS 
 
 Second Motion. — This motion consists of spreading 
 out both hands over the breast as evenly and smoothly 
 as possible and pressing firmly against the chest, Fig. 
 136. As a rule this pressure is not painful. After this 
 even pressure has been well practiced and all the glands 
 covered use the third motion. 
 
 Fig. 136 — Showing Second Motion for massaging the breasts, using 
 both hands placed flat on the breasts. 
 
 Third Motion. — This is accomplished by placing the 
 tip of the forefinger near the nipple and making gentle 
 circular strokes from the nipple to the base of the 
 breast, Pig. 137, supporting the breast meanwhile with 
 the other hand. Massage the whole breast in this way, 
 applying a little more pressure at the edge of the breast 
 than near the nipple. 
 
CONFINEMENT 
 
 333 
 
 Fourth Motion.— This is applied to force the milk 
 out of the breast. Place the hands opposite each other 
 on the breast with the upper edge of the hand so curved 
 that it will fit closely to the breast, Fig. 138. Now apply 
 pressure gently, but firmly, pressing away from the edge 
 
 Fig. 13 7 — Showing- Third Motion for massaging the breasts, using 
 the downward circular stroke, one hand, finger tips closed. 
 
 Fig. 138 — Showing Fourth Motion for massaging the breast, using 
 the palm and edge of both hands. 
 
 12— 
 
334 
 
 WOMAN'S SECRETS 
 
 of the breast and towards the nipple all the hard lumps. 
 In a few minutes this fourth motion will become painful 
 then use the first motion, gently stroking the breast. 
 If very painful, apply the second motion for a few sec- 
 onds. Then again use the fourth motion. Repeat motions 
 one and four until the whole gland is soft. From five to 
 ten minutes for each breast is sufficient time. If the 
 j)atient seems tired or exhausted before the treatment 
 
 {.. 3' 1^— d-...^. 
 
 Fig. 139 — Showing pattern of pressure bandage. Use a good grade 
 of muslin. 
 
 is complete, put the breast bandage on and after a little 
 rest continue the treatment until effective. When the 
 breast pump is used to relieve the engorgement it should 
 be after the breasts have been massaged. Always apply 
 the breast bandage after massaging the breasts and re- 
 member to handle the breasts very gently at all times. 
 If any hard lumps remain or the skin looks inflamed after 
 applying the above treatment, report such a condition to 
 the attending physician at once. 
 
CONFINEMENT 
 
 335 
 
 Fig-. 140 — Pressure bandage applied. 
 
 EXCESS OF MILK. 
 
 When the constant leaking of the milk is so great 
 as to soil the clothing, the nnrse shonld keep the breasts 
 abnnclantly covered with sterile gauze which will soak 
 up the excess. The patient shonld be given very little 
 liqnid and no starch or sweets and the bowels shonld be 
 kept regular by Epsom Salts or Citrate of Magnesia. 
 The excessive secretion at times is thin and watery and 
 in large quantities. This will exhaust the patient and 
 result in the illness of the child if it continues to nurse. 
 
 LACK OP MILK. 
 
 We generally find this state of affairs in mothers who 
 are physically weak and mentally diseased. The baby 
 
336 WOMAN'S SECRETS 
 
 is usually puny. This condition is generally due to im- 
 proper diet and worry or malformation of the breasts 
 or nipples. To establish a normal secretion the patient 
 should be made happy and comfortable. Massage the 
 breasts as directed, using only the first and fourth mo- 
 tions. Allow a good liberal diet and in addition to her 
 regular diet give chocolate, cocoa, very weak tea, oyster 
 stew, barley and oatmeal gruel, eggs, and milk in large 
 quantities. One tablespoon of nutrolactis three times 
 a day is of great value. This is sold by all druggists. 
 Beer or malt is also good, if the mother has been accus- 
 tomed to the use of it. See that the patient drinks 
 plenty of water and let tlio baby empty the breasts as 
 completely as possible at regular intervals. The best 
 stimulant for the milk secretion is a vigorous infant. 
 Give daily sponge or full baths and briskly rub the whole 
 body except the breasts Avith a coarse towel. 
 
 HOW TO DRY UP THE BREASTS. 
 
 1. Immediately after confinement. 
 
 2. During the nursing period. 
 
 3. At the end of lactation. 
 
 If for any reason, such as death of the child, it be- 
 comes necessary to arrest the secretion of the milk the 
 following treatment will be found efficient. 
 
 To dry up the breasts immediately after delivery 
 
CONFIXEMEXT 337 
 
 before any secretion lias formed apply the breast band- 
 age. Fig. 139, This should be snugly pinned. Fig. 
 140, and the natural overflow under pressure should 
 relieve the engorgement, but when they become too dis- 
 tended and painful they must be emptied by using the 
 breast pump, after which the pressure bandage must be 
 immediately applied. It is best not to massage the 
 breasts in this class of cases. Give one ounce of saturated 
 solution of Epsom Salts often enough to keep the bowels 
 moving freely. Do not allow the patient to drink much 
 liciuicl. 
 
 If it is thought best to dry the breasts up during the 
 nursing period use the same treatment as in the case just 
 mentioned, but the distention must be more frequently 
 relieved by massage and the use of the breast pump. 
 
 At the end of lactation, the time to wean the baby, 
 there is rarely any trouble in arresting the flow of the 
 milk. All that is necessary is to relieve the tension of 
 the breasts by massage fusing the first motion), or the 
 breast pump. Under this treatment the secretion usually 
 ceases within a few days. Use the breast bandage if 
 needed. 
 
 The first two conditions, before the flow begins and 
 after it is established, must receive very close attention : 
 in fact this will apply at all times, and prevent the de- 
 velopment of any serious mischief. 
 
338 WOMAN'S SECRETS 
 
 HOW TO RECKON THE CORRECT DATE OF CON- 
 FINEMENT. 
 
 It is impossible to give the exact date when a con- 
 finement will take place, but a rule that will hold good 
 in a large majority of cases is as follows: 
 
 Rule. — First consider the beginning of last men- 
 struation; count back three months and add seven days. 
 
 Example. — Last menstruation began September 1st; 
 count back three months to June 1st, add seven days 
 which would make it June 8tli, tlie date on which the 
 confinement should take place. 
 
 TREATMENT OF DISEASES OF WOMEN IN 
 GENERAL. 
 
 The many complaints so common in women are so 
 varied in their natures that it is impossible to lay down 
 a fixed rule for treatment, nor is it possible to give a 
 home treatment which will be effective in every case. We 
 have given elsewhere in the book a treatment for pelvic 
 troubles in general and it may be applied for any condi- 
 tion which causes pain in the pelvis. The headaches, 
 stomach troubles, and general nervousness are usually 
 reflex and can be cured only by relieving the diseased 
 condition in the pelvis. 
 
CONFINEMENT 339 
 
 PAINFUL MENSTRUATION. 
 
 This we often find in young women and girls in their 
 teens. It is caused by neuralgia, a low vitality of the 
 general system, inflammation of the pelvic organs, unde- 
 veloped internal genital organs, or an obstruction, gener- 
 ally located in the cervix at the internal opening, which 
 prevents the escape of the flow. The successful treatment 
 of the affection depends upon the recognition and removal 
 of the cause, and this can only be accomplished by con- 
 sulting a physician. 
 
 HOT FLUSHES. 
 
 Many women have hot flushes during the meno- 
 pause and after the removal of the uterus or ovaries. 
 Great relief can be obtained by giving special attention 
 to the general health. A hot bath lasting twenty min- 
 utes taken at bedtime, and cold sponge in the morning, 
 and the following prescription Avill prove beneficial : 
 
 Ammonii Bromidi 2 drams 
 
 Potassi Bromidi 4 drams 
 
 Spts. Ammon. Aromat 6 fluid drams 
 
 Aquae Camphorae enough to make 6 fluid ounces. 
 Take from two to four teaspoonfuls every four hours. 
 
OUR BABY 
 
 GENERAL MANAGEMENT. 
 
 The first and most essential requisite in the manage- 
 ment of the baby is the education of the mother. A 
 12 a— 
 
342 WOMAN'S SECRETS 
 
 physician needs hearty co-operation in the home. There 
 are so many important agents in the diseases of chil- 
 dren that come under the head of simple home remedies 
 such as diet; fresh air, baths, massage, etc., that a child 
 cannot be treated the same as an adult and no two chil- 
 dren are alike in physical equipment. Two points must 
 always be kept in mind,- — the benefit hoped for, and the 
 possible harm which may result. The best possible rem- 
 edies and the most careful attention are of little value if 
 the patient is over-clad, kept in a stuffy over-heated 
 room, or thrown in contact with people who are nervously 
 exhausted. Some mothers become nervous wrecks from 
 no other reason than lack of management in the daily life 
 of their children. As system is essential in all other 
 phases of life, so b it doul)ly important in the rearing 
 of children. Beginning with his birth there must be a 
 definite time for everything governing his life, — his meals 
 must be regular and his nap insisted upon until he 
 reaches the age of six years. His bath and airing must 
 also occur at regular intervals. Thus do we insure per- 
 fect health and development into strong manhood. 
 
 A MOTHER'S KNOWLEDGE. 
 
 The best success with infants is attriuULed prin- 
 cipally to well informed mothers. Reading matter along 
 this line is vastly more important than the much exalted 
 
OUR BABY 343 
 
 cookbook. A mother must keep herself informed in ease 
 of sudden illness. She must be able to discriminate be- 
 tween a case that she can handle herself and one that 
 needs the more skillful attention of a physician. 
 
 Never look lightly upon a sore throat or a persistent 
 pain in the stomach. Stop the milk and give a dose of 
 castor oil with the first indication of summer diarrhoea ; 
 then call your physician. 
 
 Plenty of fresh air at night and outdoor life at all 
 seasons of the year are fitting doweries to award your 
 baby. 
 
 A mother thus well informed may look for nothing 
 but satisfactory results and officious relatives and neigh- 
 bors will be forever tabooed. 
 
 THE NEW-BORN INFANT. 
 
 Naturally the first thought is concerning the cleans- 
 ing process. A full bath should not be given during the 
 first week or until the cord comes off. First, oil the baby 
 with olive oil, then it can have a daily sponge bath; being 
 careful not to wet the cord until it drops off. 
 
 The mother's milk does not appear until about the 
 third day. During this time the baby should be fed ten 
 grains of sugar of milk dissolved in an ounce of water 
 which has previously been boiled. Give it one or two 
 teaspoonfuls occasionally. It should be allowed to nurse 
 from six to eiR'ht hours after labor. 
 
344 OUR BABY 
 
 The pulse and breathing are both much more rapid 
 in an infant than in an adult. 
 
 The first two or three days the bowels should act six 
 or eight times in the twenty-four hours, the first move- 
 ment occurring about twelve hours after birth. The 
 first discharge is dark in color, but by the foui'th or fifth 
 day it becomes a light yellow. At this time they should 
 move tAvice in twenty-four hours. 
 
 As a rule an infant urinates at birth or at any rate 
 within twelve hours; but no alarm need be felt if this 
 does not occur before thirty-six hours have passed. 
 
 The mother should provide herself with the follow- 
 ing articles for the baby: 
 
 A good wicker basket, furnished as follows : 
 A small fine comb. 
 A soft baby's, hair brush. 
 Puff-box and puff. 
 Soap box and castile soap. 
 
 Eight ounces of saturated solution of boracic acid for 
 mouth and eyes. 
 
 Tube of vaseline. 
 
 Bath thermometer. 
 
 One yard of sterile gauze. 
 
 Pair of small scissors. 
 
 An eiderdown blanket one and one-half yards long. 
 
 Three sizes of safetypins. 
 
 Soft towels. 
 
 Plenty of old linen for wash cloths. 
 
OUR BABY 34 
 
 
 
 The following is an average list of clothing neces- 
 sary : 
 
 Flannel bands ..-- --- 3 
 
 Knitted bands .- -. — - 4 
 
 Diapers — - .doz. -i 
 
 Shirts (3 sizes) -. .- 6 
 
 Flannel petticoats .- - - i 
 
 Muslin petticoats --.- - .— - -i 
 
 Slips - - 8 
 
 Nightgowns - .- 6 
 
 Socks - -- - pairs 6 
 
 Wrappers --. -- .-- — .-- 3 
 
 Jackets for the house — 3 
 
 Shoulder blankets - - 2 
 
 Small comforters ^ 3 
 
 Care of the Umbilical Cord. — The following is a good 
 dressing for the cord after it has been tied by the phy- 
 sician : Take four or five thicknesses of sterile gauze 
 about three inches square and slit one side to the center. 
 Place next to the abdomen, cover the cord over with 
 gauze and put on the binder. This should be left in 
 place and raised up around the edge when the baby is 
 bathed. It should be kept perfectly clean until the cord 
 sloughs off; then in order to secure a rapid healing of the 
 stump it is necessary to keep the parts perfectly dry. 
 This is best accomplished by using the following powder 
 very freely and then covering it over with a plain piece 
 
346 OUR BABY 
 
 of gauze, after which the binder is applied. Change often 
 enough to keep the parts from becoming moist. 
 
 Powdered Salilcylic Acid grains 10 
 
 Powdered Boracic Acid grains 25 
 
 Powdered Amyl ounce i/o 
 
 Powdered Zinc Oxide ounce % 
 
 Have this prepared by your druggist and apply as 
 directed. This powder can be used as a dressing around 
 the cord before it sloughs off, as it will assist in causing 
 the cord to shrink and will hasten its falling off. 
 
 BABY'S WEIGHT. 
 
 The average infant weighs about seven pounds at 
 birth. During the first week it loses from one-half to 
 two-thirds pounds, then begins to gain, and at the be- 
 ginning of the sixth month its weight should double and 
 at the end of the first year should treble. The average 
 gain is from four to seven ounces each week for the first 
 six months ; after that the gain is relatively less. A regu- 
 lar gain is the ideal one. The following table devised by 
 Dr. Carr will be found most helpful: 
 
 Table of Average weight During First Year. 
 
 Lbs. 
 
 Months. 
 
 Birth I 1 I 2 
 
 7 IsWlOVa, 
 
 3 
 121/2 
 
 4 
 133/4 
 
 5 
 14 3^ 
 
 6 
 153^ 
 
 7 
 
 161/2 
 
 17 
 
 9 
 
 171/2 
 
 11 
 
 183/4 
 
 Months 
 V^eight 
 
OUR BABY 347 
 
 During the secoucl year tlie child gains about five 
 pounds. 
 
 A baby loses weight in all acute infectious diseases: 
 also in any stomach trouble. If there is a loss of weight 
 in an infant that is nursing, and no other disease is pres- 
 ent, the chances are that it is not getting enough milk. 
 This can be ascertained by weighing the baby before and 
 after nursing. When it is noticed that a nursing infant 
 is losing weight and the food and digestion are not at 
 fault, it may be that the mother is pregnant or the baby 
 is taking some infectious disease. It is a good rule to 
 weigh a healthy child every few days and a sick child 
 daily. 
 
 APPETITE. 
 
 Children often refuse food and this may be attributed 
 to various causes; a poorly ventilated room, for instance, 
 or the first development of some disease. A constant 
 desire on the part of the child to overfeed demands at- 
 tention. It may be caused by worms. Kidney trouble 
 may be detected by the desire to drink an excessive 
 amount of water. Never overfeed a sick baby. 
 
 VOMITING. 
 
 All nursing and artificially-fed infants will vomit 
 more or less in health, but severe vomiting with a rapid 
 onset is an indication of some acute form of stomach or 
 
348 OQR BABY 
 
 bowel trouble. Remember also, that the acute infectious 
 diseases may begin with vomiting. Uncontrollable vomit- 
 ing occurring in the new born soon after birth, and per- 
 sisting for days with no other sign of sickness, indicates 
 that the opening into the small intestines from the stom- 
 ach may be wholly or partially closed. 
 
 The vomiting of blood may occur imder different 
 conditions in diseases like measles, liver trouble and acute 
 inflammation of the stomach. The blood may come from 
 the nose or throat. Ofttimes an infant nurses blood in- 
 stead of milk from the mother and vomits it up after- 
 ward. It is well in all cases to examine the mother's 
 breast when a newly-born infant vomits blood. 
 
 The vomiting of bile has no special significance; it 
 may occur in any severe vomiting regardless of the cause. 
 
 CRYING. 
 
 Kilmer gives eleven reasons why a baby should cry. 
 They are as follows: 
 
 Hunger. — The cry of hunger is continuous and is ac- 
 companied by sucking of the fingers. 
 
 Thirst. — Continuous crying which stops when baby 
 gets a drink. 
 
 Pain. — If caused by the pricking of a pin, the cry is 
 sharp; if from colic, the cry is spasmodic, and is accom- 
 panied by a drawing up of the knees. 
 
OUR BABY 349 
 
 Wants Attention. — Baby very soon learns to like at- 
 tention. He wants to be cuddled or rocked and cries 
 until he is taken up and held. Begin when the baby is 
 tiny to make him understand that you are to be obeyed. 
 One of the hardest trials of a young mother's life is to 
 hear her baby cry and not give in to him: but he will 
 soon learn, and remember it is for your child's own good. 
 
 Sleepy. — A baby often fights against going to sleep. 
 
 Wet Napkins. — Always examine a baby's napkin if 
 he cries. 
 
 Tired of One Position. — In very young or weak 
 babies changing their position often stops their crying. 
 
 Frightened. — Babies are often frightened in a dark 
 room or by bad dreams; then the cry is like a shriek. 
 They should be taken up and soothed. 
 
 Exhausted. — Usually by a low moaning cry. 
 
 Temper. — A loud cry, accompanied by swinging the 
 arms and kicking with the feet. 
 
 Uncomfortable Clothing. — ^His band or napkin may 
 become wrinkled and hurt him. Take him up, straighten 
 his clothes, and he will stop crying. 
 
 BABY'S FIRST HOME. 
 
 So many parents make the grievous mistake of keep- 
 ing the baby in the arms the greater part of his waking 
 
350 OUR BABY 
 
 hours. This is not a good plan, for we are all prone to 
 hold a baby too erect. The ligaments in the vertebra are 
 not sufficiently developed to support the head and trunk. 
 Spinal curvature is often induced in this way. On the 
 other hand, do not allow a child to occupy its crib con- 
 stantly. A good-sized clothes basket equipped with a 
 good-sized pillow makes a safe playground for a baby 
 until it attempts to walk or stand. At this time an exer- 
 cise pen may be constructed — built on the plan of a large 
 crib, so that the baby may be kept off the floor, away 
 from draughts, stoves, older and rougher children, and 
 still be given the opportunity for good active exercise. 
 
 SLEEP. 
 
 There is no other one thing so essential for a baby 
 as good normal sleep. During the first few days of a 
 baby's life the sleep is almost unbroken except when it 
 is fed. Twenty-two hours each day are spent in sleep 
 during the first month. At the sixth month the child 
 should sleep from six P. M. to six A. M., with no other 
 interruption than for feeding. The day naps can be 
 shortened gradually as the child grows older. Be regu- 
 lar about his nap and no difficulty w^ill arise concerning it. 
 
 BREATHING. 
 
 When a child breathes through the mouth, sleeps 
 with the mouth open, snores in the sleep, and has a gen- 
 
OUR BABY 351 
 
 eral stupid appearance, consult your physician. These 
 symptoms reveal the fact that the child has enlarged 
 tonsils, adenoid growths in the back of the throat, or 
 possibh^ a tumor in the nose. A child thus afflicted fails 
 to increase in weight and the face is disfigured by a 
 broadening of the nose at the base. Do not neglect this 
 mouth-breathing, as it destroys a child's vitality very 
 rapidly. 
 
 KISSING. 
 
 Never kiss a baby on the mouth, as disease is apt to 
 be communicated in this manner. Parents should not 
 only desist from this habit, but should insist on nurses 
 and friends refraining from kissing the baby. 
 
 WEAK INFANTS AND DELICATE CHILDREN. 
 
 In the management of premature or delicate children 
 three things should be considered: The air the child 
 breathes, the nourishment, and the maintenance of bodily 
 heat. A premature baby should be handled only when 
 absolutely necessary and then in the gentlest manner 
 possible. Use oil instead of water for cleansing during 
 the first few weeks. Heat must be supplied artificially 
 because the heat centers of the body are undeveloped. 
 The stomach is small and the digestive powers weak, there- 
 fore the food must be of an easily assimilable character. 
 While incubators are of great value in regulating the 
 
352 OUR BABY 
 
 heat, they are defective in supplying fresh air. We know 
 of no better means of supplying artificial heat than by 
 the use of the electrotherm. It is simple in construction 
 and can be attached to any electric fixture like a drop 
 light. It is placed between two or three thicknesses of 
 blankets upon which the infant is lying in its little crib. 
 The heat is readily regulated by the amount of electricity 
 used. The body is kept at a uniform heat, and still a 
 good supply of fresh air is given. The child's vitality is 
 quickly lowered by allowing it to breathe air that is too 
 warm. It is often kept at eighty or ninety degrees when 
 it should be from seventy to seventy-two degrees. 
 
 Breast milk is almost a necessity for the premature 
 baby, and if the mother is unable to supply it a wet nurse 
 should be procured. If the baby is not able to nurse, 
 use a breast pump for sufficiant milk to nourish it. Four- 
 teen to fifteen feedings may be given during twenty-four 
 hours, allowing the amount to depend upon the digestive 
 ability of the child. 
 
 Never lose sight of the fact that a premature child 
 is handicapped and needs unusual advantages. It rarely 
 catches up in the first year, and sometimes not for two or 
 three years. 
 
 BATHING THE BABY. 
 
 Mothers often entertain an incorrect idea in regard 
 to bathing a baby when it is suffering from a cold. The 
 
OUR BABY 353 
 
 work of the skin in carrying off a cold is only aided by 
 keeping the pores open and thus assisting the process. 
 There is no better means than a bath in weak salt water 
 (a teaspoonfnl of salt to a gallon of water) at a tempera- 
 ture of eighty-five to ninety degrees, followed by brisk 
 rubbing. It is the sudden chill from undressing a child 
 in a cold room that has bad results, not the bath itself. 
 See that the temperature of the room in which you bathe 
 a delicate child is raised to eighty degrees and it will 
 never suffer from the effects. 
 
 THE SICK ROOM. 
 
 During the cold weather try to obtain a southern 
 exposure where the sun has free access and in the summer 
 the cooler the room the better. Remove all draperies or 
 use only those which can be washed. The bare floor is 
 better than a carpet. Keep the furnishings as simple and 
 sanitary as possible. A sick child kept in an overheated, 
 badly ventilated room is certainly at a disadvantage. 
 
 THE NURSE. 
 
 Much importance must be attached to the selection of 
 the help with whom we intrust the care of our children. 
 A nursery maid should be schooled for her position, but 
 at any rate be sure that she fiJls the bill from a physical 
 point of view. Nursery maids often develop pulmonary 
 
354 OUR BABY 
 
 tuberculosis. The lungs, nose, throat and teeth should 
 be examined before they are allowed to assume a position. 
 An impatient, ill-natured nurse should be forced to seek 
 other employment. 
 
 THE FEEDING OF INFANTS AND CHILDREN. 
 
 In this chapter we will endeavor to give in detail the 
 feeding of children in a manner which will be most valu- 
 able to the mother. Fixed rules will be given without 
 going into the reason in detail. Formulas for artificial 
 feeding and diet lists which have given the best results 
 will be given due consideration. The chemistry and com- 
 position of food will not be discussed, for it is confusing 
 and of no value to the average mother. A careful re- 
 search of the latest, best grounded facts that medical 
 science affords has been . carefully considered in this 
 article. No subject is so important or so fraught with 
 responsibilities as the feeding of infants and children. 
 More children die from improper feeding than from 
 disease. Therefore, every mother should thoroughly 
 master this subject. 
 
 Breast Feeding*. — The feeding of infants demands the 
 closest attention and best judgment. Every detail in 
 regard to the length of time the baby nurses, the regu- 
 larity and amount of nutrition taken must be carefully 
 noted. No infant should nurse longer than twenty min- 
 
OUR BABY 355 
 
 utes. and sometimes ten or fifteen will suffice. If the 
 infant nurses longer, say half an hour, you may be pretty 
 certain the milk is deficient in quality and a specimen 
 should be examined at once. 
 
 During the first month an infant should be nursed 
 every two hours: during the second month, every two 
 and a half to three hours. During the day wake him for 
 his nourishment at regular intervals, but do not disturb 
 him in the night between the hours of eleven and six. 
 This will teach him to sleep during that time, which will 
 be of advantage to the mother. If he becomes restless, 
 change his position and give him a teaspoonful of plain 
 boiled water or the same amount of a one per cent, solu- 
 tion of sugar and milk. This is made by adding ten 
 grains of sugar of milk to an ounce of Avater. It might 
 be mentioned here with profit that sugar of milk water 
 of this strength is all the nourishment required by an 
 infant the first two or three days of its life while the 
 mother's milk is being established. It should be put to 
 the breast six or eight hours after labor and until there 
 is plenty of milk, as there usually is on the second or third 
 day. allow the baby to nurse two or three times during 
 the day. These rules apply to perfectly healthy children 
 only. 
 
 When an infant is being nursed properly and still 
 the milk does not seem to agree with it and causes stom- 
 
356 OUR BABY 
 
 ach and bowel trouble, it may be that the milk is too 
 rich and should be examined. If the mother does not 
 furnish enough milk, the child will require artificial food 
 probably at every other feeding. When this is the con- 
 dition, everything should be done to increase the mother's 
 milk. This will receive attention in the article on Care of 
 the Breasts. 
 
 The mother should be very careful as to what drugs 
 she takes while nursing her child, as a great nuuay drugs 
 can be transmitted to the infant through the milk. None 
 should be taken unless prescribed by the Physician. Some 
 foods, as cauliflower, turnips and onions, impart a dis- 
 agreeable flavor to the milk. 
 
 The exhausted condition of the mother after con- 
 finement certainly calls for rest. Sleep is imperative 
 and some sort of stimulant is required. Accomplish this 
 by giving some good wholesome food at intervals; 
 chicken or beef broth or some sort of gruel, for instance. 
 If warm liquids are not agreeable, try cold buttermilk, 
 iced tea, or iced champagne. Ice cream will also prove 
 nutritious in some cases. If the pelvic condition is nor- 
 mal, it is better not to give solid foods for the first three 
 days, but turn your attention to milk, broths, gruels, or 
 anything that tends to stimulate the milk glands. If the 
 bowels are sluggish, give prunes, baked apples, butter- 
 milk, or anything that will assist nature along this line. 
 
OUR BABY 357 
 
 If they continue to be sluggisli and the milk is still in- 
 sufficient, give a large tablespoonful of castor oil. When 
 the bowels get regular the diet can be more general, con- 
 sisting of breakfast foods of all sorts with plenty of milk, 
 prunes, oranges, grapes, apples, soft-boiled eggs, eggs on 
 toast, tea, coffee, cocoa, soups, not too highly seasoned, 
 junket, gelatine, or custards. 
 
 We often find infants who are wholly breast-fed 
 suffering from stomach and bowel trouble, for the reason 
 that the mother does not take enough exercise or is ex- 
 tremely nervous. Menstruating while nursing or in- 
 sufficient attention to the diet may have a like effect. In 
 such cases the baby is far better off if removed from the 
 breast, for a woman must keep herself in a normal con- 
 dition. 
 
 When to Begin and What to Feed a Nursing Infant. 
 
 — ^After an infant is six months old and up to this time 
 has enjoyed perfect health, additional food may be given. 
 An infant enjoys a small piece of zwieback; it is hard 
 and is good for the gums. The white of a raw egg 
 (albumen water) may be given every other day, also a 
 little weak meat or chicken broth in which barley has 
 been cooked. The broth should be strained. An infant 
 can have this sort of a diet if given sparingly until wean- 
 ing begins. The flour ball, as mentioned in ''Artificial 
 Feeding,'' may also be given at this time. 
 
358 OUR BABY 
 
 It is surprising to note the number of mothers, espe- 
 cially among the wealthy classes, who are unable to nurse 
 their children. Statistics show that while ninety per cent, 
 in the poor classes can perform this duty, only about 
 seventeen per cent, of the wealthy classes are able to do 
 so. 
 
 The Wet Nurse. — If a wet nurse is to be procured, 
 she must be a perfectly healthy woman who is nursing a 
 baby of her own who is as near the same age as yours as 
 possible. The selection of a wet nurse is of great im- 
 portance and should be left to your physician. 
 
 Artificial Feeding. — When it is necessary to feed a 
 l)aby from the l)ottle, every detail must be carefully 
 watched. It is appalling to note the number of infants 
 and children who die each year from stomach and bowel 
 trouble. The cause is invariably improper foods. 
 Mothers who are compelled to rear their babies on a 
 bottle do not err from lack of feeling, but from want of 
 knowledge as to ways and means. A careful study of 
 the following hints will give them an idea of the care 
 that is required for artificially fed infants. A careful 
 mother will study this important subject and rely upon 
 the opinions of good authorities. Haphazard infant- 
 feeding should be done away with entirely. Too much 
 stress cannot be laid upon the necessity for mothers to 
 consult some good book or physician who is an authority 
 
OUR BABY 359 
 
 on the artificial feeding of infants. Directions obtained 
 from sncli a source should be followed to a letter. As a 
 rule, mothers and nurses are apt to feed a baby every 
 time it cries, and this only makes bad matters worse. If 
 the baby is sick and fretful it should receive even less 
 food than usual. If a grown person is ill he cannot eat 
 all the time, and the same is true of an infant. 
 
 In artificial feeding one should go about it intelli- 
 gently, adopting none but the best methods. Dr. Edwin 
 Kosenthal advocates the use of the flour-ball which is 
 prepared as follows: 
 
 Plain wheat flour boiled in a bag for five hours; then 
 bake in the oven until it is thoroughly dry and hard; 
 break it open and throw away the rind and grate the in- 
 side to a powder. For a child one month old use this 
 formula : 
 
 Formula No. 1. 
 
 Scalded milk % pint 
 
 Sterile water 1 pint 
 
 Grated flour ball 1 heaping tablespoonful 
 
 Place the milk on the fire and heat it, rub the flour to 
 a paste in the water and add the milk. Bring this to a 
 boil and put on ice to cool. Finally add enough raw milk 
 to make two pints in all. Heat only the amount required 
 at time of each feeding. Give two ounces every two hours 
 to a child one month old and increase it one-half ounce 
 
360 OUR BABY 
 
 each month. "When the child reaches the age of six 
 months use the following formula: 
 
 Formula No. 2. 
 
 Flour ball 1 teaspoonful 
 
 Rice water 4 ounces 
 
 Raw milk 4 ounces 
 
 Granulated sugar 1 teaspoonful 
 
 If the child appears hungry after a bottle of this food, 
 and the stool has a yellowish, pasty appearance, increase 
 the milk and decrease the rice water proportionately. 
 
 Home Modification of Cow's Milk. — Experience 
 teaches that home modified cow's milk is also an ideal 
 artificial food. Volumes have been written explaining 
 and demonstrating this fact. Accept this truth and we 
 will explain in detail how the modification is accom- 
 plished. 
 
 Selecting the Milk. — The best quality of milk should 
 be used. Those who live in the country or in small towns 
 can easily obtain good milk by teaching the farmer to be 
 clean; but in the large cities, especially where there are 
 no milk laboratories or certified milk dairies, mothers 
 must trust to the honesty of the men who sell milk. It is 
 difficult to secure the pure article from the average dairy. 
 
 Never take the milk from only one cow when it can 
 be avoided. Herd milk is much better. Jersey milk 
 
OUR BABY 361 
 
 should never be used as it is too rich. The milk should 
 be unskimmed and should be procured from a reliable 
 dealer whose cows are healthy and carefully kept and 
 not fed upon swill or other refuse material. Every pos- 
 sible means should be employed to insure absolute clean- 
 liness while milking. That is, regarding the hands, the 
 milk pails, and the cows. 
 
 Testing the Milk. — One can judge the quality of milk 
 to a great extent by its appearance. It should not have a 
 bluish tinge, but should be of a yellowish white color. 
 This is also the best way to ascertain the amount of cream. 
 
 Care of the Milk. — The milk should be cooled rapidly 
 and placed in clean glass bottles or jars. When cool they 
 should be sealed. When possible (especially if it is to be 
 transported some distance) it should be packed in ice. 
 If delivered immediately after milkin/g, it should be 
 poured into quart bottles and placed on ice for six hours, 
 in which time the cream will separate. In case it is not 
 convenient to have ice, set the bottle in a pan of cold 
 water and change the water often. When the milk is 
 placed in bottles at the dairy the cream is generally sepa- 
 rated by the time it is delivered. In this case the milk 
 and cream can be used at once, but should be kept cold. 
 
 Articles Required. — Equip yourself with the follow- 
 ing articles for the home modification of cow's milk: 
 
362 OUR BABY 
 
 A glass graduate giving the measurements in drams 
 and ounces. 
 
 A two quart pitcher, either glass or porcelain. 
 
 One small funnel. 
 
 One large spoon. 
 
 One dozen four-ounce bottles. Later use the eight- 
 ounce size. There is a bottle on the market called the 
 Hygienic Nursing Bottle which is very good. 
 
 One dozen anti-colic nipples. These have a round 
 tip with three holes which insures a slow steady flow of 
 milk. 
 
 One ordinary saucepan for heating the milk. 
 
 One high saucepan for warming the bottle. 
 
 Some non-absorbent cotton for plugging the bottles. 
 
 It is impossible to give any fixed rules for the arti- 
 ficial feeding of infants, as infants differ as do adults, 
 some requiring more food than others. What agrees 
 with one may act as poison to another. Their likes and 
 dislikes must be satisfied. We Avill give several formulas 
 from which to choose. 
 
 Having secured the best grade of inilk with the re- 
 quired amount of cream, the following formula can be 
 used to good advantage, as it is one of the best: 
 
 Formula No. 3. 
 
 Cream - - - IV2 ounces 
 
 Milk — - iy2 ounces 
 
 Barley water -- 3 ounces 
 
OUR BABY 363 
 
 To every six ounces of this mixture add two grains 
 of citrate of soda. 
 
 The cream from the top of the bottle may be used 
 or it may be obtained separately. In the latter case the 
 cream should be poured from the top of the bottle and 
 the milk used as directed. This fornuila has given the 
 best and most universal satisfaction. It is the ordinary 
 formula for a child three months old. From the first to 
 the third month it would be necessary to give an ounce 
 more of barley water, half an ounce less of milk and half 
 an ounce less of cream. The proportions would then be 
 four ounces of barley water and one ounce each of milk 
 and cream. 
 
 To make the barley water take one tablespoonful of 
 prepared barley (Robinson's) and tAvo tablespoonfuls of 
 sugar of milk (chemically pure) and mix this thoroughly 
 with a little cold water. Stir gradually into one quart 
 of boiling water and let come to a boil : then turn the fire 
 low and let simmer fifteen minutes. If the ordinary stove 
 is used, the mixture can be set on the back part of thi^ 
 stove. This should be made fresh every twenty-four 
 hours and is best if kept on ice when not in use. 
 
 At each feeding the above formula is prepared: that 
 is, the cream, milk and barley water and citrate of soda 
 in the given proportions are warmed to the proper tem- 
 perature. 
 
364 OUR BABY 
 
 Citrate of soda put up in two-grain powders, Robin- 
 son's prepared barley, and sugar of milk can be secured 
 at any drug store. 
 
 Formula No. 4.— According to Dr. Louis Fisher this 
 formula is excellent for a child from time of birth to the 
 age of one month. 
 
 Raw cow's milk 4 ounces 
 
 Rice water 16 ounces 
 
 Granulated sugar 1 ounce 
 
 Mix thoroughly and heat until the steam rises. Con- 
 tinue steaming at this temperature for ten minutes. 
 
 Divide into ten bottles (two ounces each), insert in 
 the necks of the bottles largo cotton stoppers. Place the 
 bottles in the refrigerator, l)ut not on the ice. Warm 
 before feeding by placing the bottles in a deep saucepan 
 filled with hot water. Let the food remain in this until 
 it reaches the body temperature. 
 
 Formula No. 5.— This is for a child from one to two 
 months old. 
 
 Raw cow's milk 7 ounces 
 
 Rice water - 20 ounces 
 
 Granulated sugar --- - 1^2 ounces 
 
 Divide into eight bottles, each bottle containing about 
 three ounces. Feed every two and one-half hours. 
 
OUR BABY 365 
 
 Formula No. 6.— For a child two to four months 
 old. 
 
 Raw cow's milk 12 oances 
 
 Rice water 23 ounces 
 
 Granulated sugar 1% ounces 
 
 Divide into seven bottles, each bottle containing about 
 five ounces. Feed every three hours. 
 
 Formula No. 7.— For a child four to six months old. 
 
 Raw cow's milk . 22 ounces 
 
 Rice water 20 ounces 
 
 Granulated sugar 1 ounce 
 
 Divide into six bottles, each containing five and one-half 
 ounces. Feed every three hours. 
 
 Formula No. 8.— For a child from six to nine months. 
 
 Raw cow's milk 28 ounces 
 
 Rice water 12 ounces 
 
 Granulated sugar 1% ounces 
 
 Divide into five bottles, each bo;tle containing about eight 
 ounces. Feed every three and one-half hours. 
 
 Formula No. 9.— For a child from nine to twelve 
 months. 
 
 Raw cow's milk 27 ounces 
 
 Rice water 5 ounces 
 
 Granulated sugar I-/3 ounces 
 
 Divide into four bottles, each containing eight ounces. 
 Feed every four hours. 
 13— 
 
366 OUR BABY 
 
 When there is any stomach or bowel trouble and 
 the child vomits after taking nourishment and there is 
 also an abnormal condition of the bowels, accompanied 
 by colic, the milk should be discontinued and broths made 
 from chicken, mutton, or veal thickened with rice and 
 toasted bread crumbs should be given. This is for a child 
 over one year old. If younger, use barley water, egg al- 
 bumen, gelatine, or Formula No. 1. 
 
 For infants under one year who cannot retain milk 
 and are troubled with diarrhoea and vomiting, Fischer 
 recommends trophonine in teaspoonful doses every hour. 
 It is in this class of cases where the child cannot assimi- 
 late cow's milk in any form that we are compelled to 
 resort to prepared foods that are placed on the market, 
 such as Nestles Food, Horlick's ^Malted ^lilk, ^Nlellins 
 Food, and many others which are more or less popular. 
 Suffice to say that the different foods mentioned can be 
 purchased from any drug store and full instructions ac- 
 company each package. 
 
 In conclusion we wish to mention another good sub- 
 stitute for mother's milk, which is buttermilk. To pre- 
 pare it we add one teaspoonful of rice flour to one quart 
 of fresh buttermilk; heat the mixture, meanwhile con- 
 stantly stirring it, until it has boiled up three different 
 times. Then add two tablespoonfuls of cane sugar. It is 
 better to use new enameled ware in preparing this food. 
 
OUR BABY 367 
 
 Buttermilk thus treated has a yellow color and in feeding 
 it to children the Hygienic bottle should be used. If it 
 coagulates it should be shaken occasionally. Some times 
 buttermilk will cause occasional vomiting and diarrhoea, 
 but it is not very severe and will subside. If it should 
 become severe, it may be necessary for the physician to 
 prescribe, but continue the same diet. When a child is 
 accustomed to buttermilk, a change to sweet milk will 
 often cause diarrhoea. It is well to remember that the 
 stools from buttermilk feeding as well as from a milk 
 diet have no fixed normal appearance. The buttermilk 
 diet forms a good one for wasting diseases or for children 
 just recovering from any acute fever. The same amount 
 should be given and at the same intervals as any other 
 milk diet would be. 
 
 After a child is a year old begin gradually to give 
 him a mixed diet composed of the ordinary foods which 
 you are accustomed to using upon your table. Use dis- 
 cretion and do not over-feed, especially at the evening 
 meal. By the time he is three years old give him only 
 three meals a day and put him on a regular diet. The 
 chapter on diet will furnish a list of liquid, soft, and 
 o'eneral foods from which to choose. 
 
368 OUR BABY 
 
 CARE OF THE BOTTLE AND NIPPLE OF AN ARTL 
 FICLALLY FED INFANT. 
 
 We thoroughly advocate the use of the hygienic, 
 graduated bottle. It should be boiled once a day, .scrub- 
 bed with a stiff brush and left to stand in borax water 
 until it is needed. Two teaspoonfuls of borax in a pint 
 of Avater is used. The straiuht black nipple is preferred 
 because it can be cleaned easily. Always turn a nipple 
 inside out and clean carefully with a stiff brusii. It 
 should also be boiled once a day. 
 
 NUTRITION AND GROWTH. 
 
 It is a i)itiable fact that children suff'tM- more than do 
 the lower animals from hH*k of initritious food. The diet 
 during the second yeai* is a])t to consist of milk, whicli in 
 cities is of a j^oor quality, toiK^thcr with insufficientl\' 
 cooked cereals, boxed ])reakfast foods, ci'ackers. etc. The 
 food at this age should be highly nutritious aiul given at 
 regular intervals. Eating betAveen meals cannot be t<:)0 
 strongly condemned. 
 
 The diet should consist of red meat once a day, poul- 
 try, eggs, milk, fish, whole wheat bread, cream. welJ- 
 cooked cereals, plenty of vegetables and fruit. 
 
 The next important factor is good fresh air. ]\Iost 
 American mothers are afraid of fresh air. The nurseiy 
 should be Avell aired every day by means of the windows 
 
OUR BABY 369 
 
 and a fire place if possible. If a child is delicate, dress 
 him as if for going ont and then wheel him about the 
 room for an hour Avitli the windows wide open, reo:ard- 
 less of the weather. 
 
 A growing- child should never be overtaxed with 
 duties of any sort. The present system of crowding in 
 our public schools is most deplorable. Xo child can do 
 hard mental work and develop physically at the same 
 time, and what do intellectual attainments amount to if 
 a child is hampered by a weak or diseased body. 
 
 ERRORS IN FEEDING CHILDREN. 
 
 The bottle-fed baby suffers most from over-ft^eding. 
 The amount of liquid is nearly always too large and the 
 intervals between meals too short. Keeping a child on 
 milk alone until he is a year old is also a mistake. 
 
 Irregularity is another thing to be avoided. The 
 meals should be given right on the dot. This forms regu- 
 lar habits in regard to his appetite and it is your duty to 
 discover the cause if he is not hungry. 
 
 CARE DURING THE SUMMER MONTHS. 
 
 Too much care cannot be given the little ones during 
 the hot summer months. The milk that is given to the 
 child should be placed on ice at the time of its delivery 
 and kept there until time to prepare it for the baby. 
 
370 ODR BABY 
 
 If you live in the city it is best to weaken the milk a 
 little. True, baby may not gain so much in weight, but 
 he will hold his own and will get through the hot months 
 without any intestinal disorders. 
 
 Do not overdress the baby during the hot days. He 
 is only human, dress him as you would like to dress your- 
 self. Give him frequent drinks of boiled water between 
 meals. Also give two or three times daily a sponge bath 
 containing one teaspoonful of common soda to each pint 
 of water. 
 
 If the baby vomits or the stool has a greenish color 
 this is a danger signal and the milk should be withheld 
 for a time, and a dose of castor oil should be given at 
 once. 
 
 Fresh air is a very important factor at this time. 
 Avoid the sun, but give him plenty of outdoor life. 
 
 See that baby has a two-hour nap in the middle of 
 the day until he is in his third or fourth year. 
 
 No little stress may be placed on the mother's habits. 
 She must be very careful of her own condition, diet, etc. 
 If the mother suffer^ with constipation, so will the baby, 
 and it is very important to keep his bowels open. Eat 
 three good plain well-cooked meals a day and the baby 
 will stand twice the chance of doing well. 
 
 The simplest case of vomiting or diarrhoea should 
 never be neglected. Give two teaspoonfuls of castor oil 
 
OUR BABY 871 
 
 at once. Stop the milk and use barley or rice water until 
 the physician can be called. 
 
 WEANING THE BABY. 
 
 The time to begin weaning a baby is at the eighth 
 month and should be completed by the ninth month. The 
 weaning should be gradual, by reducing the number of 
 breast feedings and substituting the bottle, or if it is diffi- 
 cult to have them take the bottle they can be fed with a 
 spoon or learn to drink from a cup. This gradual wean- 
 ing will prevent any trouble occurring in the mother's 
 breast, and at the same time give the baby's stomach a 
 chance to accommodate itself to the new food. The sub- 
 stituted food during weaning must not be so strong as it 
 would have been if the infant had been fed artificially 
 from birth. Therefore, at first give a baby who is being 
 weaned, food that would be suitable for a four months' 
 old baby. The strength and amount of the food may be 
 increased gradually and by the time a child is a year old 
 it may begin to take milk full strength. It is best not to 
 begin weaning an infant during the summer months if it 
 can be avoided. Some infants will be very stubborn 
 about giving up the breast. These cases will require great 
 tact and judgment. 
 
 Some mothers have an idea that they cannot become 
 pregnant while nursing a child, this is not true, and a 
 
872 OUR BABY 
 
 woman who becomes pregnant should wean her baby at 
 once. Mother's milk after the ninth month is of little 
 value, in fact, it is harmful, as it does not contain all that 
 is necessary for the proper nourishment of the baby. The 
 way to begin is to give the baby only one bottle a day. 
 The child is nursed at its other meals. As time goes on 
 the bottle feedings are gradually increased in number 
 and strength. If for any reason it is necessary to wean 
 rapidly, full instructions to dry up the milk are given 
 under ^^Care of the Brenst." 
 
 SCARLET FEVER. 
 
 Scarlet fever is an acute infectious disease conniion 
 among children — characterized by a rapid onset, vomit- 
 ing, sore throat, fever and red rash, very fine pin point in 
 appearance. 
 
 Symptoms. — Languid feeling, headache, nervousness 
 and occasionally in small children convulsions — loss of 
 appetite and sore throat. These beginning symptoms may 
 last three or four days at the most but usually not over 
 twenty-four hours. The onset of scarlet fever is more 
 rapid than any other of the infectious diseases. Often 
 times a child may pass a restless night and be taken Avith 
 a violent vom.iting spell on waking in the morning— it will 
 seem very weak and ill, pulse becomes rapid, and a high 
 fever develops within two or three hours. In some cases 
 
OUR BABY 373 
 
 a sore throat will be the first marked symptom. The skin 
 is hot— the eyes appear bright and the pupils contracted 
 — the tongue becomes coated and there is a feverish odor 
 to the breath. After these symptoms last from twenty- 
 four to thirty-six hours the rash appears. The heat of the 
 skin is intense — the appearance of the rash is abrupt, 
 spreading rapidly and covering the body and limbs within 
 four or five hours after its first appearance. The rash 
 generally begins on the neck. In mild cases all parts of 
 the body may not be affected. 
 
 It is of a bright scarlet color, a uniformly diffused 
 redness which disappears entirely upon pressure leaving 
 a white, bloodless skin for a moment after the pressure 
 is removed. 
 
 The course of the disease is from five to eight days 
 and the improvement is noticed when the rash begins to 
 fall and the above symptoms subside. In about six days 
 the skin becomes rough and dry, and scales begin to form 
 both in large and fine flakes. 
 
 This peeling process continues from four to eight 
 weeks and it must be remembered that there is danger of 
 contagion as long as this is going on. 
 
 Treatment. — The patient should be placed in a large 
 
 Avell ventilated room, with plenty of sunlight and a free 
 
 circulation of fresh air. The windows should only be 
 
 closed when giving a bath or changing the clothes. The 
 
 13a— 
 
374 OUR BABY 
 
 clothing should consist of the ordinary night gown, and 
 light gauze undershirt and the customary bed-covering. 
 
 The urine should be examined daily by the trained 
 nurse or attending physician. This can be done at the 
 home. You should buy a few test tubes and tAvo ounces 
 of nitric acid for this purpose. 
 
 If the child is bottle-fed reduce the food one-half, 
 using boiled water, that is if he is taking four ounces of 
 food, give two of water and two of the milk mixture while 
 the acute fever stage lasts. 
 
 In older children restrict the food during the entire 
 course of the disease— during the acute febrile stage give 
 a varied liquid and soft diet, composed of milk, broth, 
 fruit juice and gruels. Do not over feed. Give plenty of 
 water to drink. The ordinary diet to Avhich the child has 
 been accustomed should not be allowed until from four 
 to six weeks after the beginning of the attack. This will 
 also depend upon the severity of the case. 
 
 The bowels should move regularly each day. A glass 
 of malted milk mixed with two teaspoonfuls of ground 
 chocolate given for the last nourishment in the evening 
 will help to keep the bowels regular. If necessary give 
 an enema daily. During the acute febrile stage Citrate 
 of Magnesia will be found of great service. Give from 
 two to four ounces, according to age of the child and 
 
OUR BABY 375 
 
 repeat if necessary. Aromatic Cascara may also be given 
 in teaspoonfnl closes at bedtime. 
 
 The most important treatment is to keep the general 
 system in the very best condition possible and this is ac- 
 complished by good nursing, strict attention to clothing, 
 diet, sleep, fresh air, daily bowel movements, cjuiet, and 
 everything that may promote the child's comfort and well 
 being. 
 
 Allow only one person in the room at a time and let 
 this one be a nnrse who is pleasing in every way to the 
 patient. Some children prefer their mother, others a 
 stranger. Change the nurse if necessary until the child 
 is happy and contented in her presence. To control the 
 fever, nothing is better than sponging every hour with 
 water at about 90 degrees F. Should this fail, the cold 
 pack may be resorted to. Because the child has a rash is 
 no reason that the sponging should not be used. High 
 temperature at the beginning shows that we have a severe 
 infection to control and this sponging and cold pack will 
 lessen the temperature and heart beats and save the 
 strength of our patient. Scarlet fever causes an intense 
 itching and burning of the skin which is relieved by 
 sponging and cold pack. 
 
 A generous application of good cold cream twice a 
 day will also be of value. This helps to prevent the dan- 
 ger of infection spreading at time of scaling. 
 
376 OUE BABY 
 
 Scarlet fever is a disease of childhood and nursing- 
 babies rarely become infected. 
 
 From four to seven days elapse after the child is ex- 
 posed before the disease makes its appearance. The 
 greatest danger of infection is during the scaling process, 
 as it can be carried in articles of clothing or furniture: 
 for this reason keep the room as bare as possible of all 
 things which cannot be Avashed. 
 
 There is no specific medicine for scarlet fever; many 
 cases would pass through the entire illness with good 
 nursing by following the above instructions but it is so 
 dangerous and complications are so frequent that it is 
 wise to consult a physician as soon as the attack begins. 
 
 THE COOL PACK. 
 
 That there is any danger in the use of cool Avnter in 
 cases of measles, or scarlet fever is a mistake and we want 
 to correct it at once by explaining it to the mothers. The 
 cool pack is valuable in many instances and is prepared 
 as follows: 
 
 Use a rubber sheet to protect the bed, cut slits in a 
 Turkish towel large enough to admit the arms and wrap 
 it about the trunk and buttocks. This leaves the arms 
 and legs free. Then moisten the towel with water at a 
 temperature of ninety-five degrees. In two or three min- 
 utes repeat with water at ninety degrees, then at eighty- 
 
OUR BABY 377 
 
 five, then eighty degrees. Watch the temperature and 
 cool the water accordingly as low as sixty degrees if 
 necessary. 
 
 MEASLES. 
 
 Measles in itself is a simple disease, not dangerous 
 except as complications arise. Very few children escape 
 this disease and all depends upon good careful nursing. 
 
 Measles is an infectious disease of childhood. The 
 first symptoms may be easily mistaken for a severe cold. 
 It begins w4th a running at the nose and eyes which makes 
 its appearance about nine days after the child has been 
 exposed. 
 
 Sjrmptoms. — The first indication is a running at the 
 nose, attended by slight fever and chilly sensation. The 
 face becomes flushed and the eyes are watery and sensi- 
 tive to the light. The child sneezes frequently and a dry 
 cough develops. The fever increases toward night pos- 
 sibly two degrees and by the second day the child is very 
 sick. The bronchial trouble increases rapidly and is ac- 
 companied by a headache. Soon a little rash may be seen 
 on the palate. This appears about twenty-four hours 
 before it is noticeable on the body. Three or four days 
 usually elapse before the rash appears and then it may 
 first be discovered on the neck and back of the ears, then 
 the whole face, and within a day it extends to the chest 
 and shoulders, and soon the whole body. Measles may be 
 
378 OUR BABY 
 
 distinguished from other like diseases because the rash 
 disfigures the features, causing a swollen, distorted ap- 
 pearance. 
 
 The eruptions leave in the same order in which they 
 appeared and disappear entirely by the eighth day. 
 
 Treatment.— While this disease is simple in itself, 
 complications may be averted by making the patient as 
 comfortable as possible. Keep the room dark and well 
 A^entilated and the skin absolutely clean. Give two baths 
 a day with frequent applications of cocoa butter, lanolin, 
 or any soothing oil. Keep the child in bed until after the 
 scaling-off process. 
 
 Reduce the diet. If still on a bottle, dilute the milk 
 with equal parts of boiled water. This must be adhered 
 to only during the first few days. 
 
 Give plenty of water to drink at a temperature not 
 lower than 50 degrees F. See that the bowels move freely 
 each day. Use an enema if necessary. Examine the urine 
 every other day for albumen. The eyes should be bathed 
 freely every hour or two with a five per cent, solution of 
 boric acid, applying it with old linen which has previous- 
 ly been boiled. Whether the fever demands it or not the 
 bathing twice a day in tepid water is most essential. Fol- 
 low with oil of some soothing nature as it relieves the 
 itching, induces sleep and adds to the general comfort of 
 the patient. 
 
OUR BABY 379 
 
 If the rash is slow in appearing use a hot bath of a 
 temperature of 105 degrees to 110 degrees F., occupying 
 about five minutes for the bath. If the cough becomes 
 troublesome enough to disturb the night rest^ give one- 
 half to one tea spoonful of the following mixture : Honey, 
 Glycerine and Lemon Juice, equal parts. 
 
 "Watch carefully the temperature, the condition of 
 the lungs and heart. Keep the air in the room moist and 
 free from dust by means of a few drops of oil of eucalyp- 
 tus added to an open dish of water and kept simmering 
 in the room. 
 
 The food must be light and easily digested and is bet- 
 ter taken warm. If one adheres to these suggestions, 
 complications are not at all apt to rise. 
 
 GERMAN MEASLES. 
 
 German measles do not require very much treatment. 
 Watching the diet and keeping the bowels Avell open is 
 about all that is necessary. It lasts only about six or 
 eight days. It usually causes a swelling of the glands of 
 the neck which may be relieved by hot applications if 
 it becomes severe. This is entirely distinct from measles 
 and a child may contract both diseases within a few 
 weeks of each other. The symptoms are practically the 
 same as in measles only in milder form. 
 
380 OUR BABY 
 
 CHICKEN POX. 
 
 This is a disease most common before the age of ten 
 years, very seldom occurring after puberty. A young 
 child better be kept in bed and always in the house. 
 
 Symptoms. — Fretfulness, a restless wakeful condition, 
 accompanied by a bad stomach, oftentimes backache, 
 slight fever and general indisposition. An eruption like 
 a small pimple with a white point appears first on the 
 face and neck, gradually spreading over the body. The 
 itching is the most annoying feature, as infection from the 
 nails is apt to be caused when the child seeks relief by 
 scratching. 
 
 Treatment.— During the time of eruption the child 
 should be given a tub bath. Some good cooling oil used 
 after the bath will be found beneficial. The disease from 
 the beginning to the time the crust falls, is of about three 
 weeks duration and a quarantine should be observed until 
 the skin is entirely clear. 
 
 A sponge bath of tepid water with boric acid — two 
 tablespoons of boric acid to one-half gallon of boiled 
 water, should be given several times during the day. 
 
 MUMPS. 
 
 This is an acute, contagious disease, which affects the 
 paratoid and salivary glands and may affect the breasts 
 
OUR BABY 381 
 
 in the female and the testicles in the male. From the 
 swelling of the glands until it entirely subsides occupies 
 about ten days. 
 
 Symptoms. — A stiff sore sensation in the jaw. es- 
 pecially if something sour is eaten, and swelling of the 
 glands are the first symptoms. Headache and nausea fol- 
 low. The swelling fills the space under the ear and down 
 to beloAT the chin. The temperature varies from 102 de- 
 grees to 10-1 degrees F. Pain is caused by moving the 
 jaw, mastication being for a time almost impossible. 
 There is a ringing in the ears, dizziness and nervous irri- 
 tability. If the child has reached puberty the spreading 
 to the other glands is not uncommon and is the feature 
 to be dreaded. 
 
 Treatment. — As long as there is any temperature the 
 child should be kept in bed, and until the swelling sub- 
 sides should not leave the house. Put the patient on a 
 liquid diet avoiding all fruits or acids. Keep the bowels 
 well open. Control the temperature by means of sponge 
 baths if it reaches 10-1 degrees F. If the pain in the 
 glands becomes severe, apply cloths (old soft napkins pre- 
 ferred) wrung out of hot water and change every twenty 
 or thirty minutes. During the night use a flannel with 
 warm camphorated oil bound over the parts affected. 
 
 DIPHTHERIA. 
 
 Diphtheria is an infectious, contagious disease cans- 
 
382 OUR BABY 
 
 ing an inflammation nsnally of any mucous surface. It 
 involves the nasal cavities, lips, mouth, larynx, trachea 
 and bronchi. There is always a slight fever; the breath 
 has a very offensive odor such as does not occur in any 
 other disease. The disease is characterized by greax pros- 
 tration and inflammation of the throat. In the first stages 
 it is easily confused with Tonsilitis. 
 
 Symptoms. — Tlie first sym^ptoms are a sore throat 
 and a slight fever which increases quite rapidly some- 
 times to one hundred and three (103) degrees Fahrenheit. 
 In some instances the first symptoms are very severe, in 
 others so mild that the child may play about the house 
 several days before the disease is discovered. In Diph- 
 theria a single small patch appears first on one tonsil 
 rapidly increasing in size as the odor from the breath is 
 noticed. Oftentimes the entire throat may be covered 
 before any attention is paid to the disease. A discharge 
 from the nasal passages may appear before it is known 
 that the disease is present, and this discharge should al- 
 ways be looked upon with suspicion for in these cases the 
 symptoms are very severe and unmistakable. When a 
 membrane on the tonsils develops the glands in the neck 
 at the angle of the jaw become enlarged and tender. 
 This is almost a sure indication of Diphtheria as it does 
 not occur in Tonsilitis, or mild sore throat. The child has 
 an increased temperature, perhaps mild delirium and gen- 
 
OUR BABY 383 
 
 eral discomfort. Heart complications are also common. 
 The severity of the disorder doubtless brings on a dis- 
 turbance of the nervous mechanism of the heart. 
 
 Treatment. — The delay in the use of Antitoxin is re- 
 sponsible for a great many deaths from Diphtheria. Much 
 valuable time is lost by waiting for even ten or twelve 
 hours for the report of a culture. Giving Antitoxin at the 
 earliest possible moment that you are sure of the pres- 
 ence of the disease is the only safe course to be pursued. 
 In many cases Antitoxin is given in too small doses even 
 by persons who are familiar with its use. When there is 
 membrane on the back part of the palate or in the nose 
 never wait for the report of the culture, but give a full 
 dose of Antitoxin at once. Repeat in eight or twelve 
 hours if the membrane has extended or if there is no 
 change in its appearance. If the membrane loosens or 
 curls at the edges or takes on a granular appearance after 
 the first dose it may be safe to wait twelve hours before 
 repeating. Any lessening of the nasal discharges, or oi 
 the offensiveness of the breath and the glandular swell- 
 ings and falling of the temperature are all good indica- 
 tions of an improved condition, but we cannot rest here. 
 The clearing up process must be prompt and complete and 
 more Antitoxin administered if this is not the case. Anti- 
 toxin is an antidote for poison and enough must be given 
 to neutralize the poison. 
 
384 OUR BABY 
 
 The use of Antitoxin has reduced the mortality of 
 Diphtheria from fifty to sixty-five per cent. Best results 
 can be obtained by using it in its first stages. The patient 
 should be kept in bed during the first week of conva- 
 lescence and given the most nutritious food. As the 
 strength and general health improve, physical exercise 
 may be increased. Very careful attention should be given 
 to the heart and nervous system. The kidneys also need 
 close attention. The application of dry heat several times 
 during the day will prove of benefit in restoring the nor- 
 mal action of these organs. The temperature is rarely 
 high enough in Diphtheria to require any means of lower- 
 ing it. When the heart action becomes weak some stimu- 
 lation is necessary. 
 
 CROUP. 
 
 Croup. — This is an acute or chronic condition of the 
 larynx. The onset may be sudden or gradual. One of the 
 early symptoms being a hard dry cough, barking in char- 
 acter. This increases toward evening. Wlien the onset is 
 sudden the child may retire in apparently good health and 
 awaken in a few hours with a characteristic cough. 
 
 Symptoms. — In some cases croup begins with a sharp 
 chill, a sudden rise of temperature, rapid pulse and in 
 some instances slight delirium, especially during the 
 early or middle part of the night. 
 
OUR BABY 385 
 
 Treatment.— For the simple coiigli the expectorant 
 and steam heat answers admirably. This treatment 
 should be preceded by a dose of from one to three tea- 
 spoonfnls of castor oil. Begin the treatment early in the 
 morning so that the fnll importance of the remedies may 
 be felt at night when the cough is the most violent. A 
 cold compress applied locally may be used for older chil- 
 dren. See that the cloth is folded so that there may be 
 six thicknesses of the material, wring this from cold 
 water sixty degrees Fahrenheit and place it about the 
 neck under the chin extending from ear to ear. Cover 
 this with a silk or rubber tissue held in place by strips 
 of cloth fastened at the top of the head, or a simpler way 
 Avould be to take a perfectly dry Turkish towel and fold 
 it in several thicknesses and use in the same way. All 
 good effects are lost if this compress is not kept closely 
 about the neck. The inhalation of steam is an effective 
 remedy, but it is a little difficult to use it with only the 
 simple appliances found in an ordinary home. An um- 
 brella inverted over the crib with draperies of some sort 
 to hold the steam in. is a simple and eft'ective manner 
 when nothing better is at hand. Keep the child u.nder 
 this treatment for from twenty minutes to one-half hour. 
 In cases of croup the first object is to relax the muscles 
 about the throat and dislodge the mucous. This is best 
 accomplished by causing the child to vomit. For this 
 purpose administer equal parts of honey and powdered 
 
386 OUR BABY 
 
 alum until it has the desired effect. A mother whose 
 children are subject to croup should keep on hand some 
 calcidine tablets one-third grain. Keep them in a well 
 corked bottle and in a dark place. These tablets can 
 be purchased at any drug store. The dose for younger 
 children is one tablet dissolved in a little hot water to 
 be given every fifteen minutes until there is some improve- 
 ment; then lengthen the intervals between doses. Older 
 children can take two to three tablets at a dose. This 
 remedy has proven of great value in croup. 
 
 The evening meal should be very light. See that 
 the stomach and bowels are kept in perfect order and 
 it will assist in controlling this trouble. Use this treat- 
 ment until your physician arrives. 
 
 TYPHOID FEVER. 
 
 Typhoid Fever is characterized by a continuous 
 fever running a typical course and the disease manifests 
 itself in several different w^ays at the beginning. It is 
 a disease which affects the intestines and has a tendency 
 to lower the vitality of the system and puts the patient 
 in such a condition that inflammation in any organ is 
 likely to occur during the fever or after it has subsided. 
 The disease occurs in youth and early adult life and es- 
 pecially in the early fall. 
 
 Symptoms. — Typhoid Fever begins by causing the 
 
OUR BABY 387 
 
 patient to feel very tired and worn out, with a desire to 
 lie down and having very little ambition. There is a 
 severe headache occurring sometime during the day. — 
 usually frontal headache and occasionally very severe. 
 Sleep is poor and a general loss of appetite and a dullness 
 affecting the whole system, are the conditions which last 
 for a week or ten days. The patient also suffers from 
 flashes of heat with increased dullness and confusion of 
 intellect. In some cases there is more or less pain in 
 the muscles, back and limbs. The temperature increases 
 each day and the pulse is more rapid. The temperature 
 in the evening is one or two degrees higher than in the 
 morning, but at no time is the patient free from fever. 
 Usually at the end of the first week the acute symptoms, 
 such as headache, pains and chilly sensations, subside. 
 There is a continuation of the fever and it is generally 
 the highest during the second week at which time it 
 begins to subside. A case of Typhoid Fever usually runs 
 a course of three or four weeks. As a rule it does not 
 occur in very young children. 
 
 Treatment. — The general care of typhoid depends 
 largely upon the nurse. It is doubtful if there is any 
 other disease that has had as many different kinds of 
 treatment outlined for it by dift'erent doctors as has 
 typhoid, and the main object is to keep the intestinal 
 tract in as good a condition as possible and support the 
 
388 OUR BABY 
 
 patient to combat the fever. A typhoid patient should 
 have the best room in the house with plenty of air and 
 absolute quiet and the linen should be changed every 
 day, — oftener if it becomes soiled. 
 
 One attendant in the room at a time is all that should 
 be allowed. A typhoid patient should be sponged twice 
 a day ; if the temperature is at any time over one hundred 
 and three degrees, a sponge bath should be given every 
 hour. Careful attention should be given to the mouth 
 which should be washed several times a day with a good 
 antiseptic, something like Glyco Thymoline diluted one- 
 half with water, or some good mouth wash may be used. 
 A child may be sponged in water at a temperature of sev- 
 enty to eighty degrees for one-half hour; if the child 
 does not object too strongly this can be done every two 
 or three hours. 
 
 A cold enema may be given if the temperature is 
 running high. It has its advocates and will do a great 
 deal of good. It should not be used lower than seventy 
 or eighty degrees and unless the temperature is very high 
 it should not be used. Possibly one of the best means of 
 reducing the temperature and which will not cause any 
 shock is a cold pack which has been explained elsewhere 
 in this book. It is claimed by good authority that this 
 controls the temperature better and more effectively in 
 children than either the sponge or tub bath. 
 
OUR BABY 389 
 
 Discharges from the bladder and intestines should 
 be received in a vessel containing an antiseptic, bi-chlor- 
 ide of mercury solution one to one-thousand; this is cheap 
 and very effective. 
 
 Feeding Typhoid Patients.— In feeding typhoid pa- 
 tients many factors and conditions are to be taken into 
 consideration. There is a great tendency to feed the 
 l^atient on a strictly milk diet, but personally we do not 
 think it is the best diet for cases of this kind. It causes 
 a great deal of gas to form in the bowels and also pro- 
 duces constipation and has a tendency to keep up the 
 temperature. A diet which has given the best satisfac- 
 tion consists largely of gruels which can be made of 
 cracked wheat, barley, oatmeal, or any of the uncooked 
 cereals. They are prepared by boiling for two or three 
 hours two tablespoons of cereal to one pint of water, then 
 add enough boiled water to make a pint, or follow the 
 formula for preparing soft diets as given in a previous 
 chapter. If the gruel is too thick for drinking, more 
 boiled water may be added. This can be seasoned to 
 suit the taste. Chicken broth or mutton broth mRj be 
 added as desired. A few ounces of this gruel may be 
 given every three hours as the age and condition of the 
 child demands. A patient suffering with typhoid fever 
 should have plenty of water to drink between the times 
 for taking nourishment. Lemonade, weak tea, or weak 
 
390 OUR BABY 
 
 coffee may be given in place of .the water. When the 
 temperature becomes lower each day there can be a little 
 increase in the diet, toast, crackers, scraped beef, and a 
 soft boiled egg may be given. This sort of food should 
 not be given as often as the gruels. This line of diet will 
 support the general strength of the patient, which is the 
 main object in view and it can be varied so that the pa- 
 tient can be satisfied. Ice cream, if properly prepared 
 of good milk with a very little corn starch added and 
 eggs if desired, is most grateful, especially when the tem- 
 perature is high and given in small quantities and allowed 
 to melt in the mouth, as it does not irritate or cause the 
 stomach to become disordered. Nutritive enemas are re- 
 quired in some cases and will be j^rescribed by the at- 
 tending physician, but the general nursing in a case of 
 typhoid fever is the main thing in the treatment. There 
 are many complications which may arise in typhoid and 
 the attending physician will give the proper instructions 
 in regard to such cases, but to keep the patient quiet, 
 control the temperature, keep the bed linens in a clean 
 condition and give the proper diet are the chief measures 
 for the treatment of typhoid fever. Drugs to be used in 
 these cases must be prescribed by a physician. Keep the 
 bowels regular by giving enemas of normal salt solution. 
 Flushing out the colon is very valuable. 
 
OUR BABY 391 
 
 WHOOPING COUGH. 
 
 This is a contagious disease contracted oftenest by 
 children under five and very often during the first year. 
 It is dangerous only when there are complications which 
 may be brought on by a continuation of the cough. 
 
 The child coughs in paroxysms, beginning with sev- 
 eral short hacks and ending in a prolonged whooping 
 sound from which the disease derives its name. From 
 nine to fourteen days elapse from the time the child is 
 exposed until it begins to cough. 
 
 Symptoms.— The first symtom closely resembles nasal 
 catarrh with a mild cough which soon becomes spasmodic. 
 The temperature slowly increases each day and lasts for 
 from three to ten days. 
 
 The second stage is marked by a more violent cough 
 which lasts from one to three weeks. This soon causes 
 vomiting and thus weakens the patient. A child soon 
 learns to fear the paroxysms and will run to the mother 
 or nurse as if for help. As the severity of the cough in- 
 creases, the face becomes redder and hemorrhage from 
 the ears, eyes and occasionally from the bronchial tubes, 
 occurs. 
 
 In mild cases there is no evidence of the disease be- 
 tween the paroxysms. The spasmodic stage lasts two or 
 three weeks, in some instances, though, in mild cases 
 there is scarcely any whoop at all. 
 
392 OUR BABY 
 
 Treatment.— Whooping cough cannot be cured by 
 treatment or remedies, but the attack can be shortened 
 and we can lessen the severity of the paroxysms. The 
 disease is so common and often in such mild form that it 
 does not receive attention enough. The patient must l)e 
 kept in a warm room with the temperature as nearly uni- 
 form as possible. Keep the air moist hy means of hot 
 water. This can l)e done hy dropping a liot bi-ick into a 
 wooden dish containing boiling water. Add a small piece 
 of unslacked lime, an ounce of vinegar and a few drops 
 of either turpentine or eucalyptus. Do not neglect this, 
 as it will greatly decrease the ])aroxysins and help to 
 make respiration easy. A])()ve all lan^p the child out of 
 doors as mnch as possible and s(M' that tlu' sl(^e[)ing room 
 is well ventilated. 
 
 A FEW OF THE COMMON AILMENTS AND THEIR 
 TREATMENT— THE FEVER THERMOMETER. 
 
 Every mother who has the care of children should 
 purchase a good fever thermometer from her druggist 
 and learn how to use it. The ''Manhattan/' manufac- 
 tured by Becton, Dickinson & Co., is one of the best made. 
 They can be purchased for one dollar at any drug store. 
 When shaking doAvn the mercury in the thermometer 
 one nnist be very careful that it does not strike against 
 anything or slip from the hand. It is very easily broken 
 
OUR BABY • 393 
 
 and should be handled with great care. The above men- 
 tioned thermometer is in an aluminum case and is best 
 for home use. 
 
 In shaking down the mercury hold the thermometer 
 by the end on which the screw cap is found and give a 
 few hard shakes. This must be done each time after the 
 temperature is taken and the mercury must be shaken 
 down below the normal mark. The red arrow marks the 
 normal temperature point and when the mercury stands 
 at this point we say the patient's temperature is normal, 
 which is 98 6-10 degrees. 
 
 In any case of sickness the temperature should be 
 taken at least three times a day and in severe cases every 
 two or three hours. This will give the fever record for 
 the physician when he arrives and also tells the mother 
 how the child is getting along. The temperature is 
 usually taken by placing the end containing the mercury 
 under the tongue and letting it remain there one minute. 
 If for any reason it cannot be taken in the mouth, place 
 it under the arm and let remain two minutes. In cases 
 of children and infants it is best to take the temperature 
 per rectum, placing the thermometer just far enough in 
 the rectum so that the mercury is not visible. When 
 taken this way the temperature is generally half a de- 
 gree higher than that of the mouth and one degree higher 
 than that under the arm. 
 
394 OUR BABY 
 
 CONSTIPATION. 
 
 Milk is constipating, so it is little wonder that so 
 many bottle-fed babies are afflicted with this complaint. 
 A larger proportion of fat is required, so cream may be 
 added to the milk for bottle babies. From one-half to a 
 teaspoonful of olive oil given once a day will also be 
 found of value. Try strained prune juice and orange 
 juice. Encourage older children to eat foods which are 
 laxative, as graham bread, oatmeal, plenty of butter, 
 fruit, fresh vegetables, etc. 
 
 Form regular habits Avith the baby at an early age. 
 Hold it on the nursery chair after breakfast each day 
 and it will soon learn what this is done for. 
 
 For a quick movement of the bowels the simplest 
 and least harmful method is an enema of warm water 
 containing a small portion of salt, one teaspoonful to 
 the pint. Soapy water often answers the purpose of 
 stronger remedies, the amount depending upon the age 
 of the child. The infant's, the hard rubber, or the foun- 
 tain syringe may be used. A useful injection is one-half 
 a teaspoonful of glycerine mixed with four or five times 
 as much water. 
 
 If the baby's bowels do not move naturally every 
 day, see that they do before it is put to bed for the night. 
 This may be best accomplished by using a simple warm 
 water enema. No harm will result from this, even thou^fh 
 
r 
 
 OUR BABY 395 
 
 it should be used every night for some time. Do not get 
 into the habit of giving castor oil, as it will cause consti- 
 pation instead of relieving it. The following is a good 
 formula : 
 
 Kasagra - 1 ounce 
 
 Glycerine -1 ounce 
 
 Give the baby five or ten drops of this mixture two 
 or three time a day and see that it has an occasional drink 
 of boiled water. 
 
 Glycerine suppositories are also of great value, sim- 
 ple to use and very effective. If you haven't any of 
 these in the house, make some little suppositories of cas- 
 tile soap, about two inches long and half an inch thick 
 at the base and tapering to a point. Dip it in warm water 
 and then insert part way into the rectum and hold there 
 until the bowels start to move. 
 
 TREATMENT OF COLDS. 
 
 The process of taking cold affects the entire body, 
 but most commonly manifests itself in congestion of the 
 mucous membrane. No two children are alike in this re- 
 spect. One may endure any amount of exposure with 
 little danger of taking cold, while the other is susceptible 
 to the slightest change. The most frequent cause of colds 
 especially in infants is the eft'ect of cold air upon a moist 
 skin. Hence a child that perspires freely suft'ers most 
 
396 OUR BABY 
 
 in this respect, especially during the cold season. The 
 head is too often neglected when the child is dressed 
 for out-door exercise. The Avhole body is covered with 
 warm clothing, the legs and arms are thrown about, thus 
 creating undue perspiration, then the little head is cov- 
 ered only by a thin sort of material. The little lace crea- 
 tions and caps sold for infants' wear and so much to be 
 admired, prove of untold injury and detriment. The 
 child is then taken out into a cold wind and the wonder 
 grows why he should have taken cold. Allowing a baby 
 to sit upon the floor, and kicking off the bed covering 
 at night are also frequent causes for cold. The tempera- 
 ture of the children's sleeping room should be as nearly 
 uniform during the day and night as it is possible to 
 have it. Many persons have the incorrect idea that the 
 child takes cold during its bath. It is more often due 
 to most any other cause. Either pin the bed blanket to 
 the mattress or clothe the child in combinations with the 
 feet and you will prevent many a cold. Nursing babies 
 are often afflicted with what is commonly called snuffles, 
 or a cold in the head. A drop or two of heated sweet oil 
 rubbed over the bridge of the nose is a simple remedy 
 and will often relieve it. Drugs are hardly more efi^ective 
 in treatment of a cold than are the little simple home 
 remedies that every mother should understand, and be 
 able to use. A good hot foot bath and plenty of hot drinks 
 
OUR BABY 397 
 
 to induce profuse perspiration should be used at the onset 
 of the disease, especially as the child is about to retire. 
 Great care should be exercised after this treatment to 
 avoid all exposure from draughts, as another attack is 
 more apt to follow. See that the bowels move once in 
 twenty-four hours, thougii a good thorough physic is an 
 excellent means of ridding the patient of a cold; give 
 Laxol. 
 
 TONGUE TIE. 
 
 This is a condition caused by the muscles or under 
 part of the tongue being too short and tight, thus pre- 
 venting the free use of the tongue. It also interferes with 
 nursing. This can be remedied by clipping the little cord 
 with curved scissors. Wrap the child in a large towel 
 so that the arms are fastened to the sides, then place it 
 on its back in the nurse's lap or on a table and hold 
 the head securely. Bleeding is usually so slight that it 
 needs no consideration : this should be done by the physi- 
 cian. 
 
 THRUSH. 
 
 Thrush.— A disease which affects the mucous membrane 
 
 in the mouth of infants. It makes its appearance in the 
 
 form of small white masses about as large as the head 
 
 of a pin. They form on the tongue and inside of the 
 
 14— 
 
398 OUR BABY 
 
 cheeks, giving it the appearance of being covered with 
 curdled milk. The growth adheres firmly and will bleed 
 if removed forcibly. The disease is not contagions and 
 can easily be cured in a week if directions for treatment 
 are followed. 
 
 Treatment.— If the child is fed from the mother ^s 
 breast, see that the nipples are well cleansed with a sat- 
 urated solution of boric acid before and after nursing. 
 If it is a bottle-fed infant, see that the nipples and bottle 
 are boiled carefully after each nursing. Wash the baby'si 
 mouth with a saturated solution of potassium chlorate 
 (potash) several times a day. To do this, wrap a piece* 
 of absorbent cotton about the index finger and wash the 
 mouth carefully in this manner. If the child persists in 
 refusing the bottle or breast, spoon feeding may have 
 to be resorted to for a few days, or if the child is nursing 
 draw the milk from the breast by means of a breast- 
 pump and feed to the child in the same manner. If this 
 does not give immediate relief, report the case to your 
 physician. 
 
 WORMS. 
 
 In the great majority of cases no symptoms are pres- 
 ent until the worms are discovered after they have passed 
 the rectum. There are three principal species of worms 
 to be found in children: The thread worm, the round 
 
OUR BABY 399 
 
 worm and the tape worm. Worms either produce defi- 
 nite symptoms or none at all. They may produce itching 
 at the opening of the bowel, picking at the nose, disor- 
 dered digestion, grinding the teeth and other indications 
 of restlessness, and sometimes even convulsions. The 
 thread worm closely resembles a small piece of cotton 
 thread about one-half inch long. Absolute cleanliness is 
 the best means of treating this, with an injection every 
 other night for a week or two, with as much of an infusion 
 of Quassia as the child can hold comfortably. The round 
 worms are from four to twelve inches long and are of a 
 reddish white color. They may be present in the bowels 
 in large numbers. Never give worm medicine, except as 
 prescribed by your family physician. Tape worms are 
 occasionally found in children. The only means of recog- 
 nizing its existence is the discovery of portions of it in 
 the passages. The treatment of this disease is beyond 
 the skill of the mother, as it is essential to remove the 
 head to prevent the forming of another. 
 
 COLIC. 
 
 Very few children escape this disease during the first 
 year. In most cases the child thrives in spite of the dis- 
 ease, while in other instances indigestion exists to such 
 an extent that the conditions may prove most serious. 
 The ready decomposition of milk in the intestines ex- 
 
400 OUR BABY 
 
 plains the frequency of colic in babies, although any con- 
 dition that would cause indigestion may at the same time 
 be the cause of colic. Too large a quantity of milk given 
 is a frequent cause of colic. It may also be due to de- 
 fective bowel action. Any condition which may have an 
 irritating effect upon the child's nervous system, such as 
 fright, excitement or anger, are very apt to produce colic. 
 A baby often nurses this condition from an irritable, over- 
 wrought or nervous mother. Constipation in the mother 
 is also a frequent cause. 
 
 Symptoms. — Severe pain in tlu* abdomen usually due 
 to gas is one of th(^ never-failing symptoms. The child 
 makes this understood by suddiMi and violent crying. The 
 abdomen is hard and swoIIcmi ; the legs and arms are 
 alternately doubled up and straightened out and the feet 
 usually cold. To prevent rei)eated attacks diminish the 
 amount of time between the meals. 
 
 The body shold be warmly and uniformly clad, paying 
 special attention to the covering over the abdomen and 
 allowing no portion of the body to be without flannel 
 covering. Good woolen stockings which will cover the 
 knees are essential. 
 
 Treatment.— Never feed a baby during an attack 
 of colic. The Avarm milk may stop the crying for a mo 
 ment, but it only adds to the indigestion. Rub the ab- 
 domen for several moments and change the child's posi- 
 
OUR BABY 401 
 
 tion by lifting over your shoulder, as it may cause the 
 gas to escape and ease the colic. A small hot water bag 
 will also be found of use. A few drops of peppermint or 
 brandy in a little hot sweetened water will relieve it for 
 the time being. If these simple remedies do not relieve 
 the child, it is beyond the mother's treatment and a 
 physician should be consulted. Do not give paregoric, 
 as it contains morphine. 
 
 EARACHE. 
 
 It is sometimes very difficult for a mother to recog- 
 nize the symptoms of earache, especially in an infant. 
 Sometimes the baby will raise his hand to the seat of the 
 pain. Look carefully into both ears and see if they pre- 
 sent a different appearance. Never drop medicine of 
 any sort into the ear unless it is advised by the physician. 
 Relief may be obtained b}^ using hot water, as hot as can 
 be borne. The proper heat can be determined by holding 
 to the mother's cheek. Syringe the ear with a small ear 
 syringe, then turn the child on the aff'ected ear to allow 
 all the water to run out. Apply dry heat to the outside 
 by means of a hot-water bag. 
 
 TOOTHACHE. 
 
 This is generally due to a neglected cavity which 
 should be filled as soon as possible. In the meantime the 
 
402 OUR BABY 
 
 pain is intense and can be alleviated for a time by hold- 
 ing a hot-water bag against the face and packing a bit of 
 cotton wet with oil of cloves into the cavity. 
 
 Much pain and trouble can be averted by watching 
 the teeth carefully. Have your dentist examine them 
 every six months. 
 
 BURNS. 
 
 In case of burns the first thing to do is to apply a 
 saturated solution of carbonate of soda. This will check 
 the pain. Then the following solution, which is known 
 as ^^Carron oil/' should be applied. It is well to have a 
 quantity of this prepared and ready for emergencies. It 
 is composed of limewater, linseed oil, and carbolic acid 
 in the given proportions. 
 
 Limewater. 4 ounces. 
 
 Linseed oil 4 ounces. 
 
 Carbolic acid 2 drams. 
 
 Sterile gauze should be saturated in this solution and 
 applied to the burned surface. It should be changed 
 every six to twelve hours and kept moist. 
 
 The following five per cent, solution of picric acid 
 is another good application for burns, and is made as 
 follows : 
 
 Picric acid - - 2 drams. 
 
 Aquae 6 ounces. 
 
 This picric acid will stain everything with which it comes 
 
OUR BABY 403 
 
 in contact a bright yellow which will not come off. It 
 is well to use rubber gloves when applying it. 
 
 NOSEBLEED. 
 
 Nosebleed occurs the most frequently and is the least 
 dangerous of any internal hemorrhage. The small blood 
 vessels in the mucous membrane of the nose become dis- 
 tended by the congested condition and the rupture takes 
 place. It may also be due to an injury. The bleeding 
 generally occurs in one nostril and as a rule is easily con- 
 trolled, but sometimes it is persistent and endangers the 
 life. Some form of heart or local disease of the mucous 
 membrane may also be the cause of bleeding from the 
 nose. 
 
 Treatment. — First find out in which nostril the hem- 
 orrhage is taking place and raise the arm on that side 
 above the head; grasp the nose between the thumb and 
 finger with a firm pressure, and saturate a towel with 
 cold or ice water and lay it on the patient's forehead. 
 If this does not control the hemorrhage a quantity of ice 
 water may be injected into the nostril. Or, a solution 
 composed of one tablespoonful of salt to a half tumbler 
 of water may be injected in this way. In case of severe 
 injury these simple remedies may not be effective and it 
 may require special treatment, but the above suggestions 
 will be very valuable and can be carried out while the 
 physician is being called. 
 
404 OUR BABY 
 
 JAUNDICE IN THE NEWBORN. 
 
 Jaundice occurs in about one-third of all infants. It 
 comes about the second or third day and continues from 
 a week to ten days. It is nothing alarming, but be sure 
 the intestinal tract is active. If the bowels are sluggish, 
 give twenty drops of castor oil and repeat in twenty-four 
 hours if necessary. 
 
 INFLAMMATION OF THE BREASTS IN THE YOUNG 
 
 INFANT. 
 
 This often occurs in both tlu^ mab^ and female. The 
 mammary glands are swoUen to sevei'al times their natu- 
 ral size aiid are extremely sensitive to the touch. They 
 nuist not be i)ressed or manipulated in any way. Use an 
 ointment composed of Ichthyol twenty-five per cent, in 
 Oxide of Zinc U. S. P. Spread this on some old linen that 
 has been carefully boiled and then place some oiled silk 
 between that and the clothing to keep it from getting 
 soiled. Change the dressing every six hours. 
 
 INFLAMMATION OF THE ANUS. 
 
 After a child has been suffering several days with 
 diarrhoea, the anus and the skin surrounding it are very 
 apt to become inflamed and sore. This causes distress 
 when the bowels move and will eventually bring on con- 
 
OUR BABY 405 
 
 stipation, as a child will dread and try to avoid a move- 
 ment. Use plenty of hot water and apply Fuller's Earth 
 or an ointment made as follows : 
 
 Ichthyol - -- --- - -- - 1 dram 
 
 Ung. Aqua Eosa -. --. 1 ounce 
 
 Apply the ointment freely to the parts, using old linen 
 for the purpose. Change it every three or four hours. 
 
 TEETHING. 
 
 The lower two front teeth which are cut first make 
 their appearance between the sixth and seventh month. 
 It is very common for a child to begin teething as early 
 as the fourth month. When teething is delayed it may 
 be due to a prolonged illness during infancy. Yet in some 
 cases perfectly healthy children have not cut their first 
 teeth until a year old. 
 
 In healthy children teething should not cause any 
 trouble of a serious nature. It may cause a slight fever, 
 restlessness, and loss of appetite, but this is only tempo- 
 rary. If the digestion is disturbed to a marked degree, 
 reduce the amount of food. This can be accomplished by 
 giving a nursing baby a little water to drink before nurs- 
 ing, thus reducing the capacity for milk. If the baby is 
 bottle-fed dilute the food with boiled water by removing 
 two or three ounces of the food and adding the water. 
 
 If the gums are swollen and distended it will assist 
 14a— 
 
406 OUR BABY 
 
 the tooth to come through if the protruding points are 
 rubbed with a clean towel placed over the index finger. 
 
 To remember the time that the baby or milk teeth 
 are to occur the following key will be of value : 
 
 At six months six teeth 
 
 At twelve months twelve teeth 
 
 At sixteen months sixteen teeth 
 
 At twenty months twenty teeth 
 
 The Permanent Teeth. — The permanent set comprises 
 thirty-two teeth, which begin to appear in about the sixth 
 year when the temporary teeth begin to drop out. The 
 dentition of the permanent teeth is not complete until 
 about the twentieth year. The iiiilk teeth should not 
 decay, but should fall out or be forced out by the second 
 set. 
 
 Care of a Child's Teeth.— As soon as the teeth appear 
 they require attention. Wash out the mouth night and 
 morning for the first two years with a solution of boracic 
 acid. One ounce of boracic acid crystals in a pint of 
 water makes a solution of the proper strength. Take a 
 piece of gauze or surgical cotton, wind around the index 
 finger, dip into the solution and gently apply to the gums 
 and teeth. After the age of two years use a soft tooth 
 brush and a simple tooth-powder as follows : 
 
 Precipitate of Chalk - - - one ounce 
 
 Bicarbonate of Soda one dram 
 
 Oil of Wintergreen to flavor. 
 
OUR BABY 407 
 
 Have your druggist put up this powder for you. 
 
 Have the teeth examined by a dentist every six 
 months after the child has reached the age of two years. 
 If any cavities appear in the first teeth they should be 
 filled with some soft filling. 
 
 CONVXJLSIONS. 
 
 A spasm or convulsions may be due to various causes. 
 During the early days of life it is ver}' serious and at no 
 age should it be lightly regarded. A single convulsion 
 has been known to produce a hemorrhage in the brain 
 which resulted in destroying the child's mental faculties 
 and at the same time caused paralysis. 
 
 In the majority of cases the convulsion is caused by 
 some irritation in the stomach or bowels. A mother will 
 not be able to ascertain the exact cause, but if her child 
 should have a convulsion she should giA^e it the following 
 treatment and call her physician at once. 
 
 Treatment. — Undress the baby at once, place it in a 
 hot mustard bath (temperature 105) and rub the arms 
 and legs rapidly, using brisk friction. At the same time 
 give an enema of warm soapy water and dilate the rectum 
 with the finger, having first well anointed the finger with 
 vaseline. The finger should be placed in the rectum 
 without using any force, using the little finger if the child 
 is verv vouns: : that is, six months or over. This method 
 
408 OUR BABY 
 
 should not be employed with a newly born child. As 
 soon as the child can swallow give it two tea spoonfuls of 
 castor oil. After a child has had a convulsion keep it 
 very quiet for several hours. Apply cold cloths to the 
 head and keep a hot water bottle at the feet. Give a very 
 light diet composed of chicken broth, weak beef-tea, and 
 thin gruels for a day or two while the child is in bed. 
 
 Remember, the second convulsion is more easily pro- 
 duced than the first and a third more easily than the 
 second. 
 
 In most cases the above treatment Avill relieve the 
 convulsive condition in a few minutes and the child will 
 return to consciousness. Do not be nervous or lose your 
 presence of mind, but act quickly. 
 
 Consider convulsions very serious at all times and 
 consult a physician in regard to the cause that he may 
 prescribe the proper treatment and prevent another 
 attack. 
 
 BED-WETTING. 
 
 This does not demand any attention until the second 
 year. Passing urine is an involuntary act in young chil- 
 dren, but if persisted in in spite of good training, some 
 measures must be taken to correct it. 
 
 Have the urine tested ; if it is found to be very acid, 
 reduce the quantity of vegetable foods in the diet. If 
 
OUR BABY 409 
 
 the trouble continues beyond the third year the child 
 must have treatment. The trouble may be due to consti- 
 pation, thread-worms in the rectum, or the diet may have 
 a great deal to do with it. Lessen the quantity of liquid 
 diet, especially water, during the day, giving none at all 
 after five o'clock, and see that the bladder is entirely 
 empty before the child retires. 
 
 HOW TO CONTROL PELVIC INFLAMMATION. 
 
 In simple cases when there is an acute congestion in 
 the pelvis and pain in the region of the uterus and ovaries 
 great relief may be obtained by the following method: 
 
 1. Keep perfectly quiet in bed; this is very import- 
 ant. 
 
 2. Keep the bowels regular by taking Epsom Salts, 
 Citrate of Magnesia, or a Seidlitz powder in the morning, 
 or one or two teaspoonfuls of Compound licorice powder 
 in the evening. Repeat this as needed. 
 
 3. Take a hot douche (see Chapter XV.) night and 
 morning. 
 
 4. Purchase at the drug store one dozen 10 per cent. 
 Ichthyol vaginal suppositories and place one in the vagina 
 against the cervix every second evening after taking the 
 hot douche. In severe cases the suppository may be used 
 every evening for a short time. 
 
 5. Place hot water bottle on the abdomen. It 
 
410 OUR BABY 
 
 should contain only a small amount of water so the weight 
 will not increase the pain. If the abdomen is very sore 
 and tender apply hot turpentine aplications (see Chapter' 
 XXII. ). 
 
 6. For internal medicine I know of nothing better 
 for general use in pelvic troubles than Woman's Specific 
 No. 2. Take one teaspoonful four or five times a day. 
 
 INFLAMMATION OF THE VULVA IN YOUNG GIRLS. 
 
 This is an inflamamtion of the external genitals, 
 causing an itching and burning sensation. It is often 
 confused with gonorrhoea and having the discharge ex- 
 amined is the only sure means of determining its true 
 origin. It is caused by low vitality, therefore anything 
 that will build up and strengthen is advisable. Take 
 some good tonic, live out of doors, and eat plenty of good 
 nutritious food. Keep the parts absolutely clean by the 
 use of warm water and good pure castile soap. Dr. 
 Kerley gives the following prescription to use as a dry- 
 ing powder: 
 
 Acidi borici 25 grains. 
 
 Pulveris amyli % ounce. 
 
 Pulveris zinc oxide % ounce. 
 
 Dust the parts well with this and wear a napkin of old 
 linen. Put the powder on often enough to keep the 
 parts perfectly dry. 
 
OUR BABY 411 
 
 THE DRESSING OP WOUNDS. 
 
 Every household should be provided with the follow- 
 ing articles for dressing wounds and injuries which occur 
 so frequently among children : 
 
 Alcohol .--- 4 ounces. 
 
 Spirits of turpentine 4 ounces. 
 
 One bottle antiseptic tablets (''Bernay's'') to 
 be used in making bi-chloride solution. 
 
 One-half (I/9) pound surgical cotton. 
 
 One (1) yard of i^lain sterile gauze. 
 
 One-half (%) dozen tAvo-inch gauze bandages. 
 
 A small bottle of peroxide of hydrogen. 
 
 A dusting powder: 
 Resorcin, 1 dram. 
 Boric acid, 20 drams. 
 
 These can all be furnished by your druggist. Have 
 them prepare the powder for you. The directions herein 
 given can be applied to all injuries in general, such as 
 cuts from knives, glass, dull instruments or old rusty 
 nails. In some cases where the lacerations are very ex- 
 tensive it may rec|uire a few stitches. In that case sum- 
 mon your physician and tell him the nature of the injury 
 and that you have all necessary dressing. This may 
 save some time. The first thing to do in case of injury 
 is to render the wound clean. This is done by dissolving 
 one antiseptic tablet in a quart of water and washing the 
 
412 OUR BABY 
 
 parts thoroughly, using pledgets of cotton for sponges. 
 Then sponge off the parts with a little alcohol. Do not 
 let any enter the cut if it can be prevented. Now put 
 the edges of the skin together and apply sufficient pres- 
 sure to control the bleeding. Then saturate a piece of 
 gauze with turpentine, but do not have it too wet. Place 
 it over the wound, cover it over with a little cotton and 
 apply the bandage. Do not use any powder. Next day 
 when the dressing is changed, soften it up with the per- 
 oxide before removing the gauze. Wash off with the an- 
 tiseptic solution and apply plain gauze. This method of 
 dressing is all that is needed in simple cases. If pus 
 forms keep the wound clean by using peroxide — and if 
 there is much discharge use the dusting powder freely 
 before applying the gauze. If the parts look red, become 
 swollen, painful and inflamed, saturate a piece of gauze 
 with the following mixture : 
 
 Carbolic acid % ounce. 
 
 Alcohol 2 ounces. 
 
 Saturated solution boric acid 6 ounces. 
 
 Apply locally as directed. Then apply hot applica- 
 tions on top of this dressing and change them often. If 
 improvement does not occur in a very short time call 
 your physician. 
 
 In ordinary cases once a day is often enough to 
 change a dressing. The indications for changing a dress- 
 ing are pain, soiled dressing, or fever. 
 
OUR BABY 413 
 
 In case of injury with rusty nails or anything of 
 that sort use turpentine freely. 
 
 Keep the antiseptic tablets where they cannot be 
 handled by children as they are poison. 
 
 Before a mother dresses any injury she should be 
 sure to cleanse her hands by first scrubbing them thor- 
 oughly with soap and water and then rinse them well 
 with alcohol. This is best done by having someone pour 
 the alcohol over the hands. 
 
 BEE STINGS. 
 
 Aquae ammonia may be used wdth good results for 
 bee stings or insect bites, etc. Aplpy it on a little absor- 
 bent cotton or soft muslin. It may be renewed in a few 
 minutes after the evaporation of the first application has 
 taken place. 
 
 BED SORES. 
 
 A bed sore is the destruction of the skin upon any 
 part of the body which is constantly in contact with the 
 bed, where one is so confined for a great length of time. 
 It is caused by the great pressure on the skin and usually 
 occurs on the back and hips. 
 
 To prevent these sores it is first necessary to keep the 
 parts clean and keep the sheets free from wrinkles. Two 
 teaspoonfuls of salt in a pint of whiskey is recommended 
 
414 OUR BABY 
 
 as an excellent wash in places where the skin begins to 
 look red.' If the skin is broken the most careful atten- 
 tion is necessary to prevent extensive sloughs of the tis- 
 sue. The sore must be protected from all pressure and 
 this is best accomplished by using a rubber ring which 
 is inflated with air. Either this ring or pillows must be 
 placed above and below the sore so that it will not touch 
 the bed. 
 
 The best remedy for bed-sore after the skin is broken 
 is Campho-Phenique. It should be applied on antiseptic 
 gauze and covered with oiled silk. This application 
 should be held in place by a bandage when it is possible 
 to apply it. 
 
 If the reader should have charge of a case in which 
 the patient will be confined to the bed for some time, the 
 above preventive measures should be used. As soon as 
 a slight redness of the skin is observed the parts should be 
 rubbed with alcohol. Glycerine should be applied care- 
 fully once or twice a day as the case demands. 
 
 PRICKLY HEAT. 
 
 Nearly every infant suffers from prickly heat during 
 the summer. It makes its appearance on the head, neck, 
 and shoulders, and is caused by heat. Most babies are 
 dressed too warmly at all seasons of the year. 
 
 Treatment. — Avoid putting flannels next to the skin, 
 
OUR BABY 415 
 
 as they are irritating in the extreme. Nothing gives such 
 immediate relief as the bath of cool water. A soda bath 
 will be found of great value. A tablespoonful of bi- 
 carbonate of soda should be added to each half gallon of 
 Avater used. Have the water of the temperature to which 
 the child has been accustomed and do not let the bath last 
 longer than from two to four minutes. Dry with a soft 
 cloth and with as little rubbing as possible. 
 
 One cupful of bran mixed with the water in the bath 
 will also be found of value. One-half cupful of laundry 
 starch used in the same manner is good. 
 
 HEAD LICE. 
 
 Children from even the best homes are apt to con- 
 tract this trouble at any time during school days. The 
 best means of eradicating it is to cut the hair short if 
 the child is a boy. If a girl, you need not necessarily 
 sacrifice the hair, though it will require more time to 
 effect a cure. Dr. Kerley gives the following formula to 
 be used as a wash: 
 
 Acidi Acetici --. 2 drams. 
 
 Aetheris Sulphurici 3 ounces. 
 
 Tr. Delphinii 4 ounces. 
 
 Spirits Vini Rectificate - 4 ounces. 
 
 This will kill the bugs and loosen the nits so they can be 
 combed off. 
 
416 OUR BABY 
 
 ITCH. 
 
 This is a contagious disease of the skin and is caused 
 by a very small insect which burrows in the skin. In 
 some cases it is very severe; in others it takes a milder 
 form. The treatment, however, is about the same in all 
 cases. Give a bath at bedtime in water at a temperature 
 of 105 to 110 degrees. Use yellow laundry soap and 
 scrub vigorously with a rough towel or bath brush. Then 
 dry, still rubbing vigorously, and apply an ointment con- 
 sisting of sulphur U. S. P. Have your druggist put it 
 up for you. Repeat the process every forty-eight hours. 
 Three or four treatments should do the work. If the oint- 
 ment proves too irritating for the child's skin, as it may, 
 reduce it one-half with vaseline. All clothing worn at 
 time of the disease should be destroyed or at least boiled 
 before wearing again. 
 
 ERUPTIONS ON THE SKIN. 
 
 There are two classes of eruptions on the skin. Those 
 when there is fever and another class without fever. 
 When fever exists there is acute infection present like 
 scarlet fever, measles, etc. When an eruption occurs and 
 no fever it is due to some skin disease, or indigestible 
 food in the stomach, or the administration of drugs. 
 
OUR BABY 417 
 
 HIVES. 
 
 This disease is characterized by the appearance of 
 ridges or elevations of the skin. These vary in size and 
 shape and are such as might be caused by the lash of a 
 whip. It causes intense itching and burning, and usually 
 arises from internal sources, but may be caused by irri- 
 tating clothing, biting of an insect, or some poisonous 
 plant with which the patient has come in contact. 
 
 The use of certain drugs such as quinine, arsenic, 
 etc., has often caused hives. Also certain foods have been 
 known to have a like effect: strawberries, buckwheat 
 cakes, tomatoes, and sausages, for instance. If the cause 
 cannot be attributed to the clothing or some insect it is 
 safe to conclude that there is some disorder in the intes- 
 tinal canal. Give a good dose of castor oil, two to four 
 teaspoonfuls, or a small dose of calomel followed by a 
 good physic the next morning. Reduce the diet tempo- 
 rarily. Powder the skin with camphor and zinc or apply 
 a solution composed of" equal parts of vinegar and water 
 to the skin with some absorbent cotton. One of the sim- 
 plest and most effective remedies, however, is a good soda 
 bath, using a teacupful of common soda to two or three 
 gallons of water. 
 
 ECZEMA. 
 
 This disease, like hives, may arise from causes oper- 
 ating within, or from an irritating influence from with- 
 
418 OUR BABY 
 
 out. The appearance of the skin changes very suddenly. 
 It may be clear one day and the rash may appear the 
 next day. 
 
 Children under a year old are most liable to this dis- 
 ease. In nursing babies it may be found only in one 
 round spot on each cheek, though, in rare instances, it 
 may cover a large portion of the body. 
 
 The principal causes are an inherited tendency, a 
 run-down constitution, over-feeding or some digestive dis- 
 turbance, the use of some soap that irritates, or possibly 
 contact with soiled diapers, etc. Usually the skin is a 
 bright red covered with little watery pimples. These 
 soon rupture and leave the skin swollen and red. The 
 greatest discomfort is suffered from the almost unbear- 
 able itching. Put the hands in mittens to prevent scratch- 
 ing. Give a laxative and lessen the diet. Do not use 
 soap at all and no more water on the diseased parts than 
 is absolutely necessary. When there is irritation in folds 
 of the flesh, place a layer of cotton in the crease to pre- 
 vent friction. 
 
 Dust the parts with equal quantities of subnitrate of 
 bismuth and oxide of zinc made into a fine powder. Re- 
 move the crusts by means of sweet oil. 
 
 RUPTURE. 
 
 This is often caused by whooping cough or colic and 
 occurs most frequently in boys. It may also be occasioned 
 
OUR BABY 419 
 
 by constipation. Operating on infants under five years 
 of age is not advisable. A truss carefully fitted is the 
 best means of control. Never leave the truss off any 
 longer than is absolutely necessary to cleanse it. One 
 descent of the hernia means the undoing of several weeks 
 of vigilant care. The truss must be worn night and day. 
 If it does not fit comfortably, it should be reajusted until 
 it causes no irritation. A piece of cotton placed between 
 the child and the hard rubber bulb will add to the com- 
 fort of the child. It should be worn for a year after the 
 last descent of the hernia. Have it changed as the child 
 grows. 
 
 Umbilical or navel hernia occurs in infants and is 
 usually caused by whooping cough. In size it varies 
 from one-fourth to one inch in diameter. It nearly al- 
 ways makes its appearance during the first few months 
 of a baby^s life. 
 
 The treatment is simple. Bring the skin from each 
 side together, thus forming a sort of splint on each side 
 and place over it a strip of adhesive plaster from one to 
 two inches wide. This should be changed every four or 
 ^.ye days. If the skin becomes irritated and red. change 
 the folds at right angles with the old ones. This gives 
 relief for a time. It does not take longer than six months 
 at the most to effect a cure. 
 
420 OUR BABY 
 
 HOW TO BREAK UP A COLD. 
 
 The following will be found very effective for break- 
 ing up a cold. This should not be given to a child : 
 
 Asperin I/2 drams. 
 
 Codeine sulphate 3 grains 
 
 Powders No. 6 — One powder at seven and nine 
 each evening. 
 
 Take a hot lemonade containing a little whiskey at 
 bedtime. Each morning take a dose of Epsom salts or 
 a bottle of Citrate of Magnesia. A good hot foot bath 
 in the evening will also assist in bringing about the de- 
 sired effect. 
 
 This is for a case wliere there are aches and pains, 
 some headache, and a general miserable feeling. 
 
 HEADACHE IN CHILDREN. 
 
 This is unusual and indicates that there is disturbance 
 somewhere that is causing it. Possibly the eyes need at- 
 tention, or it may be the first symptoms of some disease 
 which is being ushered in by a headache. Over-study at 
 school, undue exercise, or excitement may bring on a 
 headache. 
 
 Treatment. — First determine the cause if possible. If 
 from the eyes, have them fitted with glasses at once; if 
 from intestinal derangement, move the bowels freely. Ex- 
 amine the urine and watch the diet. 
 
OUR BABY 421 
 
 HOW TO TAKE CASTOR OIL. 
 
 According to Carleton the best way to give castor 
 oil is as follows : 
 
 Vanillini 1% gr. 
 
 Olei Menth. pip 5 m. 
 
 Saccliarini 8 gr. 
 
 Alcoholis - 2 dr. 
 
 Tinct. persionis 20 m. 
 
 Olei ricini, q.s.ad. 6 oz. 
 
 Dissolve the vanillini, oil of peppermint, and saccliarini, 
 in the alcohol. Add the persionis to the oil and shake 
 thoroughly, then unite the two mixtures. The dose is 
 the same as plain castor oil. 
 
 In the treatment of children nothing seems to take 
 the place of castor oil as an easy and effective method 
 of emptying the alimentary canal. However, most chil- 
 dren are opposed to the unpleasant taste of castor oil. 
 The above mixture is pleasant to take. 
 
 There is also a preparation of castor oil on the mar- 
 ket which is known as Laxol. This is very agreeable to 
 the taste and is simply castor oil in disguise. 
 
 A GOOD PRESCRIPTION FOR CHRONIC CON- 
 STIPATION WHEN ASSOCIATED WITH 
 STOMACH TROUBLE. 
 
 This may be taken when there is no other symptom 
 besides constipation. It will also give great relief when 
 
422 OUR BABY 
 
 there is indigestion and loss of appetite, a condition that 
 is very common in women. 
 
 Tincture Nux Vomica 3 drams. 
 
 Pepso Laxatone - 4 ounces. 
 
 Directions. — Take one or two teaspoonfuls half an 
 hour before meals and at bed time. 
 
 Copy this prescription and the directions and take 
 to your druggist to be filled. 
 
 Kead the chapter on chronic constipation. 
 
 GOOD COUGH REMEDY. 
 
 When there is a dry irritating cough located in the 
 throat and no other symptoms are present, the following 
 is of value : 
 
 Equal parts — 
 
 Honey. 
 
 Glycerine. 
 
 Lemon juice. 
 
 Whiskey. 
 
 Take one teaspoonful of the mixture every hour. 
 
 A GOOD GARGLE. 
 
 A good gargle which can be used freely for sore 
 throat is as follows : 
 Equal parts of 
 Listerine 
 Peroxide 
 Water. 
 
OUR BABY 423 
 
 WHOOPING COUGH. 
 
 The following is highly recommended by Dr. Fischer 
 and can be given in a case of whooping cough that is 
 being treated without the aid of a physician : 
 
 Bromoform (Merck) 1 dram 
 
 Tinct. Cardamom Comp 1 dram 
 
 Give five drops in water three times a day to a child 
 one year old. Add one drop for every two years, thus : 
 Six drops for a baby three years old. 
 Seven drops for a baby five years old. 
 
 DIARRHOEA AND VOMITING IN CHILDREN. 
 
 Ofttimes during the summer months children are 
 taken with an acute attack of vomiting and diarrhoea. 
 After the bowels have been thoroughly cleaned out with 
 castor oil it can be controlled by 
 
 Hyg. Chloridi Mit. Aromatic 1-10 grain tablets No. 4 
 
 Intestinal Antiseptic -.- gr. 10 
 
 Peptenzine .-. ,.-- - -- gr. 15 
 
 Bismuth Subnitrate gr. 15 
 
 M. ft. chart. No. 15. 
 
 Give one powder every two hours, which is the regu- 
 lar dose for a child one year old. Increase or decrease 
 dose according to age. 
 
424 OUR BABY 
 
 INFANT S ANODYNE. 
 
 If baby is restless from any cause, has colic or any 
 of the infectious diseases which cause a nervous condi- 
 tion, or if teething is causing much pain, give Infant's 
 Anodyne, — one pill dissolved in a teaspoonful of water 
 every half hour until quiet. Infant's Anodyne contains 
 
 Nickel bromide gr. 1/134 
 
 Codeine sulphate gr. 1/67 
 
 Powdered ipecac gr. 1/134 
 
 Lithium carbonate gr. 1/25 
 
 Oil of anise m. 1/134 
 
 Saccharin, q. s. 
 Dose: — One pill every lialf lioui* foi* infants; more for 
 older children. They can Ix* ol)tained from any druggist. 
 
 DIARRHOEA MIXTURE FOR ADULTS. 
 
 Tr. Opii camphortae ounces 1 
 
 Tr. Kramariae -. ounces 1 
 
 Misturae cretae .....ounces 2 
 
 Dose : — Two teaspoonfuls four times a day, or, if neces- 
 sary, it may be given every three hours. 
 
 An ounce of castor oil should first be taken to clean 
 out the bowels. Stop all food until the condition is re- 
 lieved. Keep perfectly quiet in bed and if there is any 
 pain apply hot applications to the abdomen. 
 
OUR BABY 425 
 
 FOR DIPHTHERITIC SORE THROAT. 
 
 I\Ientholis .....drams 2 
 
 Toluoli .....drams 9 
 
 Liquoris ferri. chloridi .....ounces 1 
 
 Alcoholis ounces 2 
 
 Apply to the nuicous membrane on a cotton swab at fre- 
 quent intervals. 
 
 A GOOD TONIC. 
 
 When it is necessary to give a general tonic the 
 
 following Avill be found of value : 
 
 Elixir Iron, Quinine, and Strychnia.. ounces 3 
 
 Elixir Lacto Peptine ounces 1 
 
 Dose : — One teaspoonful before meals and at bedtime. 
 
 RHEUMATISM. 
 
 Every one has a different remedy for rheumatism, 
 but the only line of treatment is that of elimination ; 
 that is. keep the skin, kidneys, and bowels in good condi- 
 tion that they may throw off the poison. The following 
 treatment is good for this purpose : 
 
 Calcalith tablets — One every four hours with hot 
 
 water. 
 Salithia — One teaspoonful in half a glass of water 
 several times a dav for an adult. 
 
426 OUR BABY 
 
 HOME MEDICINE CHEST. 
 
 Every mother should provide herself with the follow- 
 ing dressings and drugs to be kept in her medicine chest 
 for cases of emergency : 
 
 Dressings — 
 
 Surgical cotton 
 
 Plain gauze 
 
 Bandages 
 
 Bi-chloride tablets 
 
 Lysol (for antiseptic wash one teaspoonful to quart) 
 
 Alcohol 
 
 Oil of cloves 
 
 Whiskey 
 
 Quinine 2 grs. capsules. 
 
 Headache tablets. The following is a good formula 
 and is made by several drug firms. It can be obtained 
 from any drug store, but should not be given to children. 
 
 Acetanilid grs. 31/2 
 
 Sodium Bromide ....- grs. 1-10 
 
 Sodium Bicarb grs. 9-10 
 
 Caffeine grs. i/4 
 
 Codeine Sulphate ..-- grs. ^/4 
 
 Dose : One or two tablets every one to three hours as 
 needed for headache. 
 
 Antiseptic soap (Carbenzol is a good make) 
 
OUR BABY 427 
 
 A good salve (nothing is better than Carbenzol oint- 
 ment) 
 Mustard plasters 
 Castor oil or Laxol 
 Epsom salts. 
 Spirits of Camphor. 
 Turpentine. 
 
LI5T OF ILLUSTRATIONS 
 
 Fig. Page 
 
 1. External Genitals 2 
 
 2. Hymen, — common form 4 
 
 3. Hymen,— ring form - 4 
 
 4. Hymen, — ring indented - - 5 
 
 5. Hymen, — imperforated - 5 
 
 6. Normal injury of hymen during sexual intercourse 6 
 
 7. Scheme showing vagina and other pelvic organs 7 
 
 8. Cross section vagina-.. 8 
 
 9. Vulvo-vaginal gland 9 
 
 10. Vulvo-vaginal abscess 10 
 
 11. The uterus 11 
 
 12. Normal position of uterus 12 
 
 13. Ligaments of uterus and bone attachments 13 
 
 14. Pelvic organs and their relation to each other 14 
 
 15. Vaginal wall and attachment to cervix 15 
 
 16. Normal cervix 16 
 
 17. Cervix torn at childbirth 17 
 
 18. Appearance of cervix after operation.. 17 
 
 19. Back view of left tube and ovary 18 
 
 20. Showing outer opening of tube 19 
 
 21. Showing right Fallopian tube laid open 20 
 
 22. Right ovary and tube— girl 16 21 
 
 23. Tube and ovary— girl 24 22 
 
 24. Inner and outer part of ovary 23 
 
 25. Ovary with collapsed Graafian follicle fifteen days after 
 menstruation 23 
 
 26. Cross section outer part of ovary 24 
 
 27. Follicles with ova in center with germinal vesicle and 
 spot 25 
 
 28. Graafian follicle developing and ready to rupture... 25 
 
 29. Inside of uterus during menstruation. 31 
 
 30. Congested condition of tube and ovary during men- 
 struation 33 
 
 30A. Ovary first day menstruation 34 
 
 31. Human spermatozoa 40 
 
 32. Approach and fusion of the spermatozoon and ovum 42 
 
 33. Union of germinal vesicle and spermatozoon 43 
 
 15— 
 
430 WOMAN'S SECRETS 
 
 Fig. Page 
 
 34. Location of tubal pregnancy 45 
 
 35. Abortion of the product of conception into abdominal 
 cavity through tube 47 
 
 36. Manner in which rupture of tubal pregnancy may take 
 place 48 
 
 37-38-39. Showing first three stages of development of the 
 foetus 50 
 
 40. Human ovum of eight days 51 
 
 41. Side of placenta next to the child 53 
 
 42. Side of placenta next to uterus 54 
 
 43. Formation of the cord 55 
 
 44. Cross section of umbilical cord 56 
 
 45. Human ovum and child of four weeks 57 
 
 46. Human ovum and child of second month 58 
 
 47. Human foetus of three months, — natural size 59 
 
 48. Human foetus of eight weeks. — natural size 60 
 
 49. Foetus and uterus at six weeks 61 
 
 50. Showing an early abortion 72 
 
 51. Pregnant uterus and ovum at five weeks 73 
 
 52. Results of criminal abortion showing perforation with 
 elm tents producing blood poison 77 
 
 53. Perforation by tupelo tent causing peritonitis 78 
 
 54. Double uterus 86 
 
 55. Two-horned uterus 87 
 
 56. Cross section of same 87 
 
 57. Sectional view of one-horned uterus 88 
 
 58. Undeveloped infantile uterus 88 
 
 59. Accessory Fallopian tubes 89 
 
 60. Abnormal condition of Fallopian tubes 89 
 
 61. Results of neglected tear of opening of vagina during 
 childbirth 97 
 
 62. Appearance after surgical operation repairing same 98 
 
 63. Showing recent tear of vagina 99 
 
 64. Showing stitches tied in same 100 
 
 65. Backward displacement of uterus 101 
 
 66. Correct attitude knee-chest position 102 
 
 67. Forward displacement of uterus 103 
 
 68. Pus formation in Fallopian tube and ovary at time of 
 operation 105 
 
 69. Syphilitic sore on lip.... 107 
 
 70. Syphilitic sore on cervix 108 
 
 71. Syphilitic rash on body — three weeks after appearance 
 
 of chancre 109 
 
 72. Gonococci germs of gonorrhoea 116 
 
LIST OF ILLUSTRATIONS 431 
 
 Fig. Pagre 
 
 73. Discharge from uterus infected with gonorrhoea.--.. 118 
 
 74. Venereal warts of the vulva.. 122 
 
 75. Leucorrhoeal discharge from the cervix 124 
 
 76. Bath thermometer — ..127 
 
 77. Reservoir, glass douche tip, and douche pan 127 
 
 78. Fountain syringe with glass vaginal douche tip attached.. 128 
 
 79. Kelly pad .....128 
 
 80. Substitute for Kelly pad 130 
 
 81. Correct and incorrect positions when taking vaginal 
 douche : 131 
 
 82. Best position for taking vaginal douche 132 
 
 83. Using Kelly pad while taking vaginal douche 133 
 
 84. Squatting position while taking vaginal douche 135 
 
 85. Fountain syringe w^ith rectal tip attached ....153 
 
 86. Best form of rectal tip. 153 
 
 87. Correct position to hold rectal tip 158 
 
 88. Second position in taking an enema 159 
 
 89. Third position with large bowel filled with water 160 
 
 90. Syringe and tube used to give nutritive enema 161 
 
 Indoor Exercise Illustrations — 
 
 Fig. Page 
 
 91. Showing incorrect position 180 
 
 92. Showing correct position.. 180 
 
 93. Proper costume for indoor exercises 181 
 
 94. Deep breathing, — before the exercise. .....184 
 
 95. Deep breathing, — lungs filled with air.... 184 
 
 96. Contracting the abdominal muscles 186 
 
 97. Backward movement 186 
 
 98-99. Forward movements 187 
 
 100. Sideways and forward 188 
 
 101-102. Sideways and body twisting movement.... 189 
 
 103. Squatting — first position 190 
 
 104. Squatting — second position 190 
 
 105. Raising the body — first position 191 
 
 106. Raising the bodj^ — second position 191 
 
 107. Raising both legs..... 192 
 
 108. Raising the legs alternately... ....193 
 
 109. Dip movement — first position 194 
 
 110. Dip movement — second position... ....195 
 
 111. Raising the body backward — first position .....195 
 
 112. Raising the body backward — second position..- 195 
 
 113. Hot-water bottle ...196 
 
 114. Electrotherm .....197 
 
432 WOMAN'S SECRETS 
 
 Pig. Page 
 
 115. Hot applications for pelvic trouble i 199 
 
 116. Articles required for turpentine stupes or hot applica- 
 tions 202 
 
 117. Ice-bag 207 
 
 118. Showing correct and incorrect method of applying the 
 ice-bag 208 
 
 119. Half-bath 216 
 
 120. Adjustable spray 217 
 
 121. Spray apparatus and rubber sheet 220 
 
 122. Home needle spray 221 
 
 123. Home modification of spray bath 223 
 
 124. Adjustable spray 224 
 
 125. Sitz-bath tub 225 
 
 126. Turkish bath at home 226 
 
 127. Turkish bath gas heater 227 
 
 128. Sheet bath 228 
 
 129. Normal nipples 323 
 
 130. Breast pump used to develop the nipple 324 
 
 131. Abnormal nipples 325 
 
 132. The Acme nipple shield 326 
 
 133. Bandage for distended breasts 327 
 
 134. Best form of breast pump 328 
 
 135. Breast massage — first motion 331 
 
 136. Breast massage — second motion 332 
 
 137. Breast massage — third motion 333 
 
 138. Breast massage — fourth motion 333 
 
 139. Pattern of pressure bandage 334 
 
 140. Pressure bandage applied 335 
 
INDEX 
 
 Introduction XVII 
 
 A. 
 
 Abortion 70 
 
 Anodyne for infants — quieting medicine 424 
 
 B. 
 
 Burns 402 
 
 Bed-wetting , 408 
 
 Bee-stings 413 
 
 Bed-sores 413 
 
 Baths 212 
 
 Bath — spray ...224 
 
 Bath— sitz 225 
 
 Bath— home, Turkish 226 
 
 Bath— sheet 230 
 
 Blackheads — how to remove.... 291 
 
 Breasts, Diseases of 329 
 
 Distention 329 
 
 How to apply bandage 330 
 
 Engorged breasts 330 
 
 How to massage the breasts 331 
 
 Excess of milk 335 
 
 Lack of milk 335 
 
 How to dry up the breasts 336 
 
 Baby, Our 341 
 
 General management 341 
 
 A mother's knowledge 342 
 
 New-born infant ! 343 
 
 Care of umbilical cord 345 
 
 Baby's weight 346 
 
 Appetite 347 
 
 Vomiting 347 
 
 Crying 348 
 
 Baby's first home 349 
 
 Sleep 350 
 
 Breathing 350 
 
 Kissing 351 
 
 Weak Infants 351 
 
434 WOMAN'S SECRETS 
 
 Bathing -.- - 352 
 
 The sick room 363 
 
 The nurse 353 
 
 Food - 354 
 
 Breast feeding 354 
 
 When to begin and what to feed an infant 357 
 
 The wet nurse 358 
 
 Artificial feeding 358 
 
 Formula No. 1 359 
 
 Formula No. 2 360 
 
 Formula No. 3 362 
 
 Formula Nos. 4 and 5 364 
 
 Formulas Nos. 6, 7, 8 and 9 365 
 
 Home modification of cow's milk 360 
 
 Selecting the milk 360 
 
 Testing the milk 361 
 
 Care of the milk 361 
 
 Articles required 361 
 
 Care of the bottle and nipple 368 
 
 Nutrition and growth 368 
 
 Errors in feeding 369 
 
 Care during the summer months 369 
 
 Weaning the baby 371 
 
 C. 
 
 Chicken Pox 380 
 
 Symptoms 380 
 
 Treatment 380 
 
 Colds — treatment of, in children 395 
 
 How to break up in adult 420 
 
 Croup 384 
 
 Symptoms 384 
 
 Treatment 485 
 
 Colic 399 
 
 Symptoms 400 
 
 Treatment 400 
 
 Cough remedy 422 
 
 Convulsions 407 
 
 Treatment 407 
 
 Castor Oil — how to take 421 
 
 Conception 40 
 
 Child, How it developes in the uterus 50 
 
 Cord 56 
 
 Civilization 93 
 
 Constipation 143 
 
INDEX 435 
 
 In children - - 394 
 
 Childbirth 99 
 
 Cold Applications — - - 206 
 
 Cold compress - — — 209 
 
 Choosing a companion 273 
 
 Care of the face .290 
 
 Confinement 316 
 
 Necessary articles 317 
 
 How to reckon correct date of confinement 338 
 
 Care of mother after confinement.. '. .....318 
 
 The binder 319 
 
 Afterpains .— 319 
 
 Rest 319 
 
 Diet ....- -.- 320 
 
 Bowels 320 
 
 Temperature 321 
 
 Kidneys . .: .321 
 
 Time to rise from confinement bed 321 
 
 Cool pack 376 
 
 D. 
 
 Dress 96 
 
 Douche, Vaginal 126 
 
 Diet 163 
 
 Diphtheria 381 
 
 Symptoms .-. .382 
 
 Treatment 383 
 
 Prescription for diphtheric sore throat ...425 
 
 Diarrhoea in children 423 
 
 Diarrhoea mixture for adults.... 424 
 
 E. 
 
 Education 90 
 
 Exercise 95 
 
 Enema ...152 
 
 Exercise, Indoor ........180 
 
 Ears — care of . .....295 
 
 Eyes — care of 295 
 
 Earache 401 
 
 Eczema 417 
 
 Eruptions on the skin 416 
 
 F. 
 
 Female Pelvic Organs, Anatomy and Physiology of... 1 
 
 Fallopian Tubes 17 
 
 Food 95 
 
436 WOMAN'S SECRETS 
 
 Fruits 168 
 
 Freckles — how to remove 292 
 
 Fever thermometer 392 
 
 G. 
 
 Gonorrhoea 115 
 
 Golden Rules 299 
 
 Gargle, A good 422 
 
 H, 
 
 Hymen 4-5 
 
 Hot applications 196 
 
 Hot applications by use of electrotherm 197 
 
 Hot applications — effects of 198 
 
 Hot applications — technique of 198 
 
 Hot applications — blanket pack 201 
 
 Husband and wife 277 
 
 How to be beautiful 289 
 
 Hair — to remove superfluous 293 
 
 Hair — care of 296 
 
 Hands — care of '.297 
 
 Hot flushes 339 
 
 Head lice 415 
 
 Hives 417 
 
 Headache in children 420 
 
 Home medicine chest 426 
 
 I. 
 
 Indoor Exercises 178 
 
 Ice-bag 207 
 
 Instructions for the pregnant woman 311 
 
 Exercise 311 
 
 Diet 312 
 
 Habits 312 
 
 Clothing 315 
 
 Urine 313 
 
 Inflammation 404 
 
 Of the breasts in infants 404 
 
 Of the anus 404 
 
 Of the vulva in young girls..... 410 
 
 Of the pelvis — how to control 409 
 
 Itch 416 
 
 J. 
 
 Jaundice in the newborn 404 
 
INDEX 437 
 
 L. 
 
 Leucorrhoea ...123 
 
 Liquid diet 169 
 
 Lover and Sweetheart 286 
 
 Lips — care of 293 
 
 M. 
 
 Mons Veneris --. 1 
 
 Menstruation 30 
 
 Menstruation, painful ...- 339 
 
 Miscarriage 70 
 
 Menopause 80 
 
 Masturbation .....140 
 
 Meats 166 
 
 Marriage : 247 
 
 Mouth— care of 293 
 
 Measles 377 
 
 Symptoms 377 
 
 Treatment 378 
 
 Measles, German 379 
 
 Mumps 380 
 
 Symptoms 381 
 
 Treatment 381 
 
 Medicine, for stomach and bowels 421 
 
 ^Medicine for babies, "Infants Anodyne" 424 
 
 N. 
 
 Nose — care of 295 
 
 Nipples — care of .323 
 
 Before confinement 323 
 
 After confinement 325 
 
 Excoriations ...325 
 
 Fissures and cracks on top of nipple 328 
 
 Fissures and cracks at base of nipple. 328 
 
 Nosebleed 403 
 
 Treatment :..403 
 
 O. 
 
 Ovaries 19 
 
 Ovaries, how removal affects a woman 138 
 
 P. 
 
 Puberty 27 
 
 Puberty, management of 29 
 
 Pregnancy, signs and symptoms of 307 
 
 Tubal 45 
 
438 WOMAN'S SECRETS 
 
 Patent medicine 245 
 
 Pimples — to remove 291 
 
 Prickly heat 414 
 
 R. 
 
 Rheumatism 425 
 
 Rupture 418 
 
 S. 
 
 Sterility 66 
 
 Social conditions 91 
 
 Syphilis 106 
 
 Syphilis and marriage 113 
 
 Soups 168 
 
 Soft diet 174 
 
 Sexual life of both sexes 251 
 
 Sexual life — physiology and effects 255 
 
 Morality 265 
 
 Signs and symptoms of pregnancy 307 
 
 Menstruation stops 307 
 
 Changes in breasts 308 
 
 Nausea and vomiting 308 
 
 Quickening 309 
 
 Changes in vulva and vagina 309 
 
 Bladder irritation 309 
 
 Cravings 309 
 
 Signs of labor and preparation of patient 315 
 
 Scarlet fever 372 
 
 Symptoms 372 
 
 Treatment 373 
 
 Use of the cold pack 376 
 
 T. 
 
 The would-be doctor 235 
 
 Tan — how to remove 291 
 
 Treatment of diseases of women in general , 338 
 
 Typhoid fever 386 
 
 Symptoms 386 
 
 Treatment 387 
 
 Feeding of typhoid patients 389 
 
 Tongue tie 397 
 
 Thrush :. 397 
 
 Treatment 398 
 
 Toothache 401 
 
 Teething 405 
 
INDEX 439 
 
 Permanent teeth 406 
 
 Care of a child's teeth 406 
 
 Tonic, a good 425 
 
 U. 
 Uterus 9.... 
 
 V. 
 
 Vulva - 2 
 
 Inflammation of in young girls 410 
 
 Vagina 6-7 
 
 Vegetables , 164 
 
 Vomiting in children 423 
 
 ' W. 
 
 Woman — her ailments 85 
 
 Warts, venereal 121 
 
 Whites 123 
 
 When a pregnant woman should consult a physician 315 
 
 Water — drinking 231 
 
 When to consult a physician 239 
 
 Wife— the ideal 270 
 
 Wrinkles — how to remove — 293 
 
 Whooping cough — 391 
 
 " Symptoms 391 
 
 Treatment 392 
 
 Prescription for 423 
 
 Worms 398 
 
 Wounds — dressing of ...411 
 
 Y. 
 
 Yellow spots— how to remove 292 
 
LRRATA 
 
 Fig. 75 — Should read: Showing a leuchorrhoeal dis- 
 charge from the cervix (modified from Massey's Gynecol- 
 ogy, copyright F. A. Davis Company). 
 
 Fig. 73 — Should read : Showing the discharge from a 
 uterus which is infected with gonorrhoea (modified form 
 Massey's Gynecology, copyright F. A. Davis Company). 
 
 '' Golden Rules," pages 299, 300, 301 and 302, were 
 culled from various sources. 
 
f^S^. 
 
 M^]. 
 
 
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