Touch screen televisions, video clips and audio commentaries have brought 500 innovative years of obstetrics and gynaecology into the 21st century at the Royal College of Obstetricians and Gynaecologists’ first new interactive exhibition, which has opened to coincide with its 75th anniversary year.
Fifty-four biographies map the work of celebrated anatomists starting with Leonardo da Vinci and Andreas Vesalius and finishing with the pioneering work of Patrick Steptoe on infertility treatment. As well as visual and audio attractions, visitors are treated to narrations read by David Suchet, whose father, John, was a Fellow of the College.
There are also 22 subject themes ranging from the development of Caesarean Section to modern-day obstetric imaging, as well as a section charting the substances that have been used as contraceptives over the years including lemon juice and crocodile dung!
The museum’s resuscitation began four years ago with the re-cataloguing and photographing of the College’s collection of instruments and artefacts. Rather than being put back into storage it was decided that they should be given a more auspicious home, and plans were made to mount this permanent exhibition.
Ian Fergusson, Honorary Curator says, “The idea behind the museum is to provoke people’s inquisitive side. We were sensitive to the fact that some passers-by may not want to see certain items, so many of the objects are hidden in drawers, little cabinets and cupboards. It will be suitable for school children, the casual passer-by and the medical clinician.”
For those wanting more in-depth information, the museum allows the visitor to enter their email address so that detailed historical essays and supporting literature can be sent to them at the touch of a button.
Ian continues, “I’m very enthusiastic about this project and particularly like the novel way in which it has been laid out. I hope it will enthuse people into a greater appreciation of obstetrics and gynaecology.”
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Funding was secured from the Heritage Lottery Fund, the RCOG and the Clore Duffield Foundation.
The display was designed by Don Grant Designs who also designed the front doors of the College.
For more information on the museum please contact museum@rcog.org.uk
