Emilie Lehmus

German physician and pioneer for women in medicine

Emilie Lehmus (30 September 1841 – 17 October 1932) was a pioneering German physician and one of the first women to practice medicine in Germany. She played a significant role in advancing the cause of women in the medical profession during the late 19th and early 20th centuries.

Early Life and Education

Emilie Lehmus was born in Fürth, Kingdom of Bavaria, on 30 September 1841. She was the daughter of a prominent family, which provided her with the opportunity to pursue higher education at a time when such opportunities were rare for women. Lehmus initially studied at a girls' school in Fürth before moving to Berlin to further her education.

In Berlin, she attended the Victoria Lyceum, an institution that offered advanced courses for women. Her interest in medicine led her to pursue studies at the University of Zurich, one of the few universities in Europe that admitted women to its medical program. She graduated with a medical degree in 1873.

Medical Career

After obtaining her degree, Emilie Lehmus returned to Germany, where she faced significant challenges due to the prevailing gender biases in the medical field. Despite these obstacles, she became one of the first female physicians in Germany.

Gedenktafel commemorating Emilie Lehmus and Franziska Tiburtius

Lehmus initially worked in private practice, providing medical care to women and children. Her practice was based in Berlin, where she collaborated with other pioneering female physicians, including Franziska Tiburtius. Together, they established a medical practice that catered specifically to women, which was a novel concept at the time.

Contributions to Women's Medicine

Emilie Lehmus was a strong advocate for women's health and education. She believed in the importance of providing women with access to medical care and information, which was often lacking in the male-dominated medical community.

Lehmus was also involved in various women's organizations and movements that sought to improve the status of women in society. Her work helped pave the way for future generations of female physicians in Germany and beyond.

Later Life and Legacy

Lehmus continued to practice medicine and advocate for women's rights throughout her life. She retired from active practice in the early 20th century but remained involved in the medical community and women's movements until her death on 17 October 1932.

Her legacy is remembered through various commemorations, including a plaque in Berlin that honors her contributions to medicine and women's rights.

Related Pages

• Franziska Tiburtius
• University of Zurich
• Women in medicine