Ancient Birthing Chairs Helped Women During Childbirth

These European parturition (or birthing) chairs were used by women in ancient times until the 1800s, during childbirth. This convertible chair has arm and foot rests, which can be adjusted for comfort and can also be folded down into a bed or operating table. These chairs were treated as heirlooms in some families and passed down through the generations. The modern equivalent is still used in some countries.