Josephine Barnes

British obstetrician and gynaecologist

Photograph portrait of Josephine Barnes

Josephine Barnes (18 August 1912 – 28 December 1999) was a pioneering British obstetrician and gynaecologist. She was the first woman to be elected as President of the Royal College of Obstetricians and Gynaecologists (RCOG) and was a prominent advocate for women's health.

Early life and education

Josephine Barnes was born in Sheringham, Norfolk, England. She was educated at Oxford High School and later attended Lady Margaret Hall, Oxford, where she studied medicine. Barnes excelled academically and went on to complete her clinical training at the University College Hospital in London.

Medical career

Barnes began her medical career during a time when few women were in the field of obstetrics and gynaecology. She worked at the Elizabeth Garrett Anderson Hospital, which was one of the few hospitals in London that employed female doctors. Her dedication and skill quickly earned her a reputation as a leading expert in her field.

Contributions to obstetrics and gynaecology

Josephine Barnes made significant contributions to the advancement of women's health care. She was particularly interested in improving maternal health and reducing the risks associated with childbirth. Barnes was instrumental in developing new techniques and protocols that improved the safety and outcomes of pregnancy and childbirth.

Leadership roles

In 1970, Barnes was elected as the first female President of the Royal College of Obstetricians and Gynaecologists. During her tenure, she advocated for the inclusion of more women in the medical profession and worked to improve the standards of care in obstetrics and gynaecology. Her leadership was marked by a commitment to education and research, and she played a key role in the establishment of new training programs for doctors.

Later life and legacy

After retiring from active medical practice, Josephine Barnes continued to be involved in various health-related organizations. She was a vocal advocate for women's health issues and worked tirelessly to raise awareness about the importance of early detection and prevention of diseases such as breast cancer.

Josephine Barnes on After Dark in 1997

Barnes was also a frequent contributor to medical journals and publications, sharing her insights and experiences with a wider audience. Her work has had a lasting impact on the field of obstetrics and gynaecology, and she is remembered as a trailblazer who paved the way for future generations of female doctors.

Related pages

• Royal College of Obstetricians and Gynaecologists
• Obstetrics
• Gynaecology
• Women's health