Om obstetrik och osteologi. Paleodemografiska perspektiv på graviditet, förlossning och obstetrisk vård under svensk medeltid och tidigmodern tid

Abstract

This essay examines possible maternal deaths in paleodemographic analyses and grave material by comparing three cemeteries: Nya Lödöse, Helgeandsholmen and Västerhus. By comparing mortality patterns and burial practices, the aim is to investigate possible signs of obstetric care during medieval and early modern Sweden. The results show a higher death rate for adult women in all three burial places, indicating possible maternal deaths. Fetuses and small children were found in all cemeteries and potential evidence of medical knowledge were found in Nya Lödöse. The study highlights the challenges of identifying obstetric care archaeologically and emphazises the importance of integrating paleodemography with archaeological and osteological findings for a more comprehensive understanding of historical maternal health.