This treatise on the diseases of women is dedicated to the women of the world : yours for health

              -
This entire book copyrighted In 1901 and 1904 by the Lydia
E. Pinkham Medicine Co., of Lynn, Mass., U. S. A. All rights
reserved and will be protected by law.
List of Lydia E. Pinkham's Remedies.
LYDIA E. PINKHAM'S VEGETABLE COMPOUND.
Put up in three forms: Liquid, Lozenge, and Pills .
LYDIA E. PINKHAM'S LIVER PILLS, per Box
LYDIA E. PINKHAM'S BLOOD PURIFIER
LYDIA E. PINKHAM'S SANATIVE WASH, per Packet
Price, $1.00
.. .25
" 1.00
" .25
ALL THE ABOVE, EXCEPTING THE LIQUIDS, CAN BE SENT IJY MAIL ON RECEIPT Of" PRICC:.
ALL DRUGGISTS SELL MRS. PINKHAM'S REMEDIES.
r
CHAPTER I.
A WOMAN BEST UNDERSTANDS A WOMAN.
E xperience a Perfect Teacher.- Do you know what it is to suffer pain ? Have you had
your body racked and torn with intense suffering ? Have you ever experienced that indescribable
agony which comes from overworked nerves ?
Have you ever felt the sharp, stinging pain, the dull, heavy pain, the throbbing, jumping pain,
the cramping, tearing pain, the sickening, nauseating pain ? Then you know all about them.
Nobody can tell you anything more. Experience is a periect teacher.
Book-Learning A l one Not Sufficient.- Suppose you had nev-er eZj,erienced pain, but
had just read about it in a book, do you think you would have any kind of au idea of what
genuine suffering was? Most certainly not.
Rook knowledge is valuable. It teaches the location of. cO\mtries, the use of figures, and the
history of nations ; but there are some things books cannot do, and the greatest of these is, they
~annat describe physical and mental suffering. These are things that must be experienced.
P ersonal Experience Neces sary.- After you have ouce suffered, how ready you are to
sympathize with those who are going through the same severe trials. If a member of your own
home or a friend is passing through the trying ordeal of motherhood, and you have suffered the
same, how you can advise, suggest, comfort, guide ! If you have had a personal experience of iu­teuse
agony once every month, do you not think you are in a far better position to talk with oue
who is suffering in the same way than you would be if you had never gone through all this?
You Best Un derstand Yourself.- But let us go a little farther in this study. w·hen you
listen to an eminent orator, you have but little idea whether be is nervous or not, but little idea
whether he is undergoing a severe strain or not; for you have never been in his place, cannot
understand just that condition.
Men become greatly interested in political matters; perhaps it often seems to yon that they
become too much disturbed ; and yet how can you judge, for you have never been in their place?
And so we might go on, giving illustration after illustration as additional proof to this one great
fact.
IT TAKES A WOMAN TO UNDERSTAND A WOMAN.
Man Cannot Know Woman's Sufferin g.-·what does a man know about the thousand
and one aches and pains peculiar to a woman ? He may have seen manifestations of sufferino- he
may have read something about these things in books, but that is all. Even though he mip;h~ be
exceedingly learned in the medical profession, yet what more can he know aside from that which
the books teach? Did a man ever have a backache like the dragging, pulling, tearing ache of a
woman? No. It is impossible.
Even Medical Men Cannot Un derstand These Things. -To a man, all pain must be
of his kind; it must be a man-pain, not a woman-pain. Take, for instance, the long Jist of dis­eases
and discomforts which come directly from some derangement of the female generative organs;
it~, for instance, the bearing-down pains, excessive flowing, uterine cramps, and leucorrhroa. Do
you think it possible for a man to understand these things? Granting that he may be the most.
~arned man in the medical profession, how can he know anything about them only in a general
way? You know, we know, everybody knows that he cannot.
A WOMAN CAN BEST PRESCRIBE FOR A WOMAN.
Relief First Offered in 1873.- Away back in '73 the. e thoughts came to Lydia E. Pink­ham.
She saw the most intense suffering about her on every hand, and yet no one seemed able to
gi.,.e relief. Her thorough education enabled her to understand that nearly all the sufferiug of
womankind was due to diseases and affections peculiar to her sex.
g
The whole quest1on resolved itself into just this: If a remedy could be made that would relieve.
all inflammations and congestions of the ovaries, Fallopian tubes, uterus, and other female orggns,.
the days of suffering for women would be largely over. · ·I:
First Made on a Kitchen Stove.- Could this be done ? Mrs. Pinkham believed with 8J !
her heart that it was possible. So on a kitchen stove she began the great work which has mallEi
her name a household word wherever civilization exists. Without money, but with a hopeful heart.
she made up little batches of this remedy to give to neighbors and friends whom she felt could b&
telieved by it. .
The story soon spread from house to house, from village to village, from mty to mty Now
it looked as if a business might be established upon a permanent basis, a basis resting upon th
wonderful curative properties of the medicine itself.
"We Can Trust Her." -By judicious advertising the merits ot tb1s remarkable remed
were set forth ; and before she was hardly aware of it, she found herself at the head of one of th
argest enterprises ever established in this country.
That face so full of character and sympathy, soon after 1t was first published, years ago, begar.
to attract marked attention wherever it was seen. Women ~id, " IIere is one to whom we can
tell our misery, one who will listen to our story of pain, one whom we can fully trust•• And
the letters began to arrive from every quarter. Now hundreds of these letters are received
every day. More than a hundred thousand were written in a single year. Everyone is opened
by a woman, read by a woman, sacredly regarded as written strictly in confidence by on.
woman to another. Men do not see these letters.
Men Never See Your Letters.-Do you want a strange man to hear all about you1
particular disease? Would you feel like sitting down by the side of a stranger and telling him
all those sacred things which should be known only by women ? It isn't natural for a womart
to do this; it isn' t like her, isn't in keeping with her finer sense of refinement.
No Boys Around.-And then, how would it be when some boy opens the letters, steals
time to read a lew before they are handed to some other boy clerk to distribute (and probably
read) around the office to the various departments? It makes one almost indignant to think'
how light and trivial these serious matters are so often regarded.
You Write to a Woman.-But when you know your letter is going to be seen only
by a woman, one who sympathizes with you, feels sorry for you, knows all about you, how
different all this seems.
Confidence Never Violated.-Although there are preserved in the secret files ol Lydia;
E. Pinkham's laboratory many hundreds of thousands of letters from women from all parts m
the world, yet in not a single instance has the writer accused Mrs. Pinkham of violating her
confidence.
The Largest Experience in the World.- The one thing that qualifies a person tu
give advice on any subject is experience-experience creates knowledge. No person can
speak from a greater experience with female ills nor a greater record of success than Mrs.
Pinkham. Thousands of cases come each month, some personally, others by mail ; and this has.
been going on thirty years, day after day, and day after day, thirty years of constant success­think
of the knowledge thus gained. Surely women are wise in seeking advice from a woman
with such an experience-especially when it is free. If you are ill get a bottle of Lydia E
Pinkham's Vegetable Compound at once-then write Mrs, Pinkham, Lynn, Mass.
What medical man has ever lived who has prescribed for so many women? What whole
corps of physicians in any hospital or medical college has answered so many letters, or treated
in any way so many patients?
She Helps Everyone.-No woman ever writt>s to her for advice without getting help,
No matter how rare you think your case may be, she is almost certain to find letters on file
asking advice for other cases of the same kind. By special permission of the writers I print a
few of the letters showing what cures have been effected. But if the reader could go throng
these secret files which are never shown, she might hour after hour, day after day, week afte1
week, spend her whole time reading letters, each one telling some special story of rescue from
serious illness, intense suffering, or impending death.
The Largest Record of Cures.-The writers of these letters are found in every clime, and
~~ere is hardly a country in the world without its multitude of grateful women cured by Lydia
E. Pinkham's medicines. They haYe the largest record of absolute cures from female ill
known to have been effected by any physician or his medicines.
CHAPTER II.
WHAT SHALL THE FUTURE GENERATION BE ~
Important to the Nation . - It is impossible to fully comprehend how important to u ..
as a nation is the health of the young women of to-day. We fail to realize that these women
are to be the mothers of the next generation, and that in their hands will lie, in large measure.
the power to form the characters and direct Lhe destinies of the boys and girls of the futw·e.
Woman Must Be Strong.-"\Ve ma.y educate our young men all we wish, yet we cannot
have national power through their strength alone. The women of the country must have this
physical education if we are to have a people that is strong and hearty.
Upon the sound health and vigor of the young women of to-day will depend, to a large
extent, the health and capacity of the future generations.
What are Girls Worth? -It is estimated that there are about twelve million young
women in the United States between fourteen and twenty-eight years of age. What are these
young women worth to the home, to the State, to the nation, to the human race? This is largely
a. question of physical health.
It is the stem duty of the mother to make this clefLr to her daughter, and it is the solemn duty
of every young woman to thoroughly study the subject herself.
Not Prepared for Motherhood.- But largely through ignorance, often through indiffer­ence,
these young girls become mothers when little prepared to do so, and they find not only
their own health shattered thereby, but also that they are the mothers of weak, delicate, and
perhaps deformed children.
Women Desire Children.-'Ve read a great deal in the newspapers about how American
women are doing everything they possibly can to prevent having children. This is not in accord
with ow· experience. It is a slander on American womanhood, - it is an outrageous falsehood
In not one letter in a thousand which we receive do wives ask how childbearing may be
prevented, while every day brings us many, many letters asking if something cannot be done m
order that there may be a baby in the house.
A Healthy Mother and Child. - If you desire a child, you wish a healthy child , and
you certainly desire to be a strong moth er, one capable of caring for her infant in every way, and
able to direct it all through 1ts young life. Then let us give you some advice.
Why Some Women Do Not Have Children.-The reason why some wives do not
have children may be entirely the fault of the husband; but if this is not the case, then in all
probability there is some inflammation of the generative organs. This may be of recent or of old
standing. It must be thoroughly removed before the impregnated egg from the ovary can become
attached.
The Cure for this Con dition. -That these changes can be brought about in a vast number
of cases I have the most positive testimony. I have advised such wives to continually use
Lydia E. Pinkham's Vegetable Compound; and, with 'this treatment alone, such a healthy condi­tjon
of the generative organs has been brought about that pregnancy bas very soon followed .
This is precisely according to nature's laws, as I have indicated before.
Therefore, I say to every wife who desires a child, "Give Lydia E. Pinkham's Vegetab•->
Compound a thorough trial. If the fault is yours. the Compound will surely remove it. and tllti
longing of yotu· heart will be satisfied.''
6
CHAPTER III. ·'
REPRODUCTION, ••
The Reproductive Instinct Strong. -The reproductive mstlnct JS very strong m m
human race, as is indicated by the large amount of energy the woman expends in the bearing
of children, and by both sexes in the care and education of their young. As we know, it is only
by the production of new individuals that the continuance of the race is assured. '
Problems of Reproduction.- The problems of reproduction are extremely broad, involving
not only the immediate questions of individual reproduction, but also those broader and deeper
ones which relate to heredity.
A New Life, By Chance.- It is a most astorushing fact that nearly all persons born into
~he world are given life as the result of chance rather than by careful design. "If my parents
had only known I '' is the frightful wail of many a wretched life.
To Create is Divine.-At no time does man come so near being omrupotent as when.
by the tremendous powers given him, a new life is called into existence. And yet, whether
strong or weak, refreshed or exhausted, healthy or diseased, sober or intoxicated, sweet or ill­tempered,
yielding or resisting, a new life is begun which may be either of two extremes. How
great are such questions ! The human mind seems appalled when asked to consider them.
Education on These Subjects Necessary.- It is not the purpose of this book to
moralize upon these themes, or to say what should and should not be done; but knowing some.
thing of the wretchedness of womankind, and the fearful slavery she often has to endure, I can
only hope, with all my hearL, that the coming generation may be better educated on these most
important topics. It is with a thought or two of this kind in mind that I append the following
brief outline of this subject :-
Two Sexes Necessary.-In the higher animals two sexes are necessary for the reproduc­tion
of the race, the male and the female. Each contributes some particular element toward the
beginning of a new life ; this is known as the germ-cell.
The Germ-Cells. ~ The germ-cells of the male are called spermatozoa, and those of the
female, ova. The reproductive process is simply a fusion, or union of these male and female
germ-cells.
The Male Elements.- The spermatozoa are exceedingly delicate and minute ; they con
atitute the greatest part of the semen, or sperm. They are peculiar shaped bodies, having a head,
body, and tail, as illustrated in the accompanying
Fro. 1. At the left are au: spermatozoa, or
male-elements, male germ-<Jells. At the
right is an ovum, egg, female germ-<Jell All
highly magnified.
figure, and they can only be seen by powerful magni·
fying glasses. (Fig. 1.)
They have the remarkable property o! moving
about with considerable activity, and their number ia
almost beyond computation.
Only One Male Element Necessary - Al~
though this number is so vast, yet only a single one is
required to endow the female cell, OI egg, with life.
It is another illustration of how nature does everything
possible to increase the chances of p!Jrpetuating the
race ; for without such immense numbers, the chancel
of the female egg being fertilized would be much less.
May Live for Days.- Although these male
elements can live but a few hours outside of the body,
even when especial precautions are taken to make
every thmg favorable to their existence, yet they have
b&"n known to maintam their full life m the vaginal canal for more than eight days after their W..
cL..uge ; another remarkable provision of nature, for the prolonged existence of these ceiJJj
increases the probability of the fertilization of an egg, 11.11d thus increases the chances of producint
11 new life.
7
The Female Element.- As I have already said, the female germ-cell is also kn'own as the
ovum, or egg. A single ovum is shown in Fig. 1.
If not fertilized by the male elements, the egg passes off into the outside world ; if fertilized, lL
SLops in the cavity of the uterus, where it forms an attachment. Here it remains until perfectly
developed, when, at the end of nine months, it is brought forth to the outside world as a perfect
mfant.
One Female Element; Many Male Elements.-The human ovum is often said to be a
miniature of the egg of the common fowl, although there are some quite marked differences between
the two. It is a very interesting fact to note that there is only one egg given off at a time; while
there are many thousands ~f the male elements. This is in harmony with the larger size of the
egg, aml the fact that while this egg awaits fertilization it is most carefully protected within the
body of the mother.
Whe1·e is Life F irst Made?- Where the wonderful union of the male and female ele­ments
takes place is not definitely known, although it is generally believed that it is upon the
surface of the ovary, itself.
If this be true, then it is necessary for the male element to traverse the whole length of the
uterine cavity, out along the course of the Fallopian tube, and there be deposited on the surface
of the ovary.
The Fertilized Egg. - When a fertilized or impregnated egg is set free £rom the surface of
the ovary, it follows the same course that the unimpreguated egg does w1til it reaches the uterus.
Here some most remarkable changes immediately take place whereby the egg is held firmly to tue
inner wall of the uterine cavity ; while the unimpregnated egg, as I have said, passes down the
uterine cavity into the vagina, and thus out of the body. In other·words, the fertilized egg is
retained within the body, while the unfertilized one is cast off.
One Egg Discharged Each Month.-An ovum, or egg, is discharged during each men­strual
period. It cannot be seen because of its minute size, a magnifying glass being necessary to
detect it, even under favorable conditions. At just what time dW'ing this period the ovum is cast
from the body is not definitely known, but it is generally thought to be toward the latter part.
Time When Fertilization is Most Probable. -From this it is seen that but one egg
fully develops and ripens ready to be fertilized each month. As it is the ripened egg which is
thrown off at each menstrual period, therefore it follows that the fertilization of this egg would be
most probable at about the time of menstruation. ·
Times When Ova Do Not Ripen.-As a 1~ule, these ova do not ripen, or develop,
e\ther dW'ing pregnancy, or during the nursing of the child, although there are certain exceptions
to this rule ; for menstruation occasionally takes place during lactation and pregnancy, and
pregnancy itself may occur while the mother is uw·sing her child.
CHAPTER IV.
THE REMEDY THAT CURES.
A Vegetab le Compound. -I hardly think it necessary to mention in detail the separate
ingredients of Lydia E. Pinkham's Vegetable Compound. We wish to call your attention, how­~
ver, t.o that word " Vegetable."
I do not believe in mercw·y, arsenic, and the host of mineral poisons which are fouud in so
many remedies. When taken into the system they distm·b every function, interfere with the most
vital processes, and produce the most disastrous consequences. ·
The Purest and Best. -Knowing these things, Mrs. Pinkham was exceedingly careful to
put only the purest and choicest of produ~ts of the vegetable kingdom into her Compound. Each
of the roots and herbs is selected with th~ most extreme care, and all are prepared under the per­sonal
supervision of the most thoroughly trained specialists.
One Secret.-One great secret of the success of Lydia E. Pinkham's Vegetable Compound
is that each vegetable is so treated that all useful elements are retained, and all useless discarded.
Highly Concentrated.-For instance, it is possible for the expert workmen in our labon,..
tory to condense all the medicinal power that exists in a pound of the coarse root into a ID.aaS oo
Larger than could be held on the point of a knife. In this way it is possible for a teaspoonful o.1
the Vegetable Compound to represent all Lhe curative properties usually found in eight or ten tuneg
that quantity ; in other words, it is highly concentrated.
Acts Upon Female Organs. - :Mrs. Pinkham knew from the very first that she was on t.t.•
right track. She knew that her Vegetable Compound contained medicines which act direct! ~,
naturally upon the female organs.
She knew that one iJ:!lr:edient produced certain effects on the uterus, wh1le otner mgreuuin <
tended to relieve pain in the ovaries. She knew that one remedy would heal an 1n1iamed uterm6
cavity, while another ingredient would cause better circulation in the lood-vessels of thi part :>'
the body. Having the theory all worked out most carefully, she awaited the practical test, feelu.~,~;
confident as to the result.
Success Was Immediate.-But she d1d not have to wa1t long. Immediately the curel'i
began, and her neighbors and friends told each other what had been done for them. Soon letterr
came by the hundreds from all parts of the world. Thousands upon thousands have written 'h
Mrs. Pinkham telling her their story and giving to her, also, full permission to use theJ·
testimonials.
It Bridges the Gulf. -I am sure you would be delighted, as well as surprised, if you coulo,
see the immense difference between the first and last letters 'received from women. The first IS th6
story of suffering, of extreme agony with prolonged misery and abandoned hope. The last is 21
song of gratitude, of great love, of joy and peace. The first tells of disease, the last of health
But what an immense gulf between these two!-a gulf, however, I am glad to say, that can b6
bridged with Lydia E. Pinkham's Vegetable Compound.
You Cannot P ossibly Doubt.-I do not believe you can possibly doubt for one moment
the power of this marvelous remedy to cure the diseases of women. now can you doubt it ? For
a quarter of a century it has gone into every city, villa,"'B, and hamlet in our land, and into almost
every country home.
Across the water it is finding its way among the rich and the poor. No remedy was
ever known that was so generally used. Wherever there are women, there are suffering women ;
and wherever there are suffering women you are sure to find Lydia E. Pinkham's Vegetable
Compound.
The Testimonials Are True.- Do you think there are hundreds of thousands of your own
sex who would wilfully falsify ? Do you .think that any could be found who would deliberately
do this, and without hope of gain or reward? Yet I could point you to hundreds of thousands of
letters received from women who write from the fulness of the heart to thank us for what we have
done for them.
We Speak Strongly.-Then am I not justified in speaking strongly to you? Don't you
think we feel sure of our position ? I certainly know what we have done for others, and that
makes us feel sure we can do the same for you.
W e Can Cure You.- I believe our Vegetable Compo~nd will cure yon. I believe it will
cure every case where a cure is among the possibilities. You need not be particular whether
the soreness in the lower part of your body is in the right side or the left side ; whether the pain
is sharp, or dull and heavy ; whether 'you suffer terrible agony each month with local pain, or
whether it is mental depression ; whether the flow is too scant or too profuse.
It Corrects the Wrong.-You need not be particular about these things, for they all show
that something is wrong, and Lydia E. Pinkham's Vegetable Compound corrects this wrong. That
is what it was made for ; tbat is precisely the work it does.
Have Faith in Us.-Don't purchase a bottle thinking you will "see what it will do," having
made up your mind that you will "try the experiment." Don't come in this spirit, for there Is
no need of it. Come with the feeling that has inspired so many thousands of your sisters, -come
believing that yon have at last found a remedy that will relieve you from this terrible slavery to
suffering.
I am anxious to have you enjoy all the robust health that is your right. I am anxious to
make you happy, hopeful, healthy. Put your confidence in Lydia E . Pinkham's Vegetable
Compound. You will never be disappointed.
J
CHAPTER V.
THE FEMALE PELVIS AND ITS CONTENTS.
The Pelvis.-The pelvis is the bony framework which forms the lower part of the body. On
.each ~ide it forms a union with the hip bone to make the hip joint.
The female pelvis contains the reproductive organs (uterus, vagina, and ovaries), and also the
bladder and lower bowel.
Fig. 2 gives a very good idea of the shape
and general structure of this bony framework;
while a careful study of Fig. 3 will enable one
to form a very correct idea of the relative size
and position of the various parts contained in
this framework.
The Vagina.- The vagina is a mem­branous
canal extending from the sm·face of
the body to the uterus, or womb. I ts posterior
wall is about 3~ mches long, and its anterior
about 3 inches. A careful study should be
m:ule of our illustration, in order that the re­lation
of the vagina and uterus to the rectum
behind and the bladder in front may be thor­oughly
understood ; also the angle which is
formed by the vagina and the uterus.
Notice should be taken, also, of the open­ing
of the uterus into the upper part of the
vagina. as inflammation of the uterus often
F10 2 The female pel vis The flanging sides form the
hips. The union of ~be bones in front forms the pubic
arch which is felt at the front of the lower part of tho
body. The lower end of the spinal column, or back­bone,
is seen at the back of the figure.
causes a discharge which passes mto the upper part of the Yagina and finally out of the body.
This gives ri ~e to the belief that the only trouble is in the vagina itself, whereas the real seat of the
di:sea e may be hi~h up in the uterus.
The Uterus - The uterus, or womb, IS a hollow organ formed of muscular tissue, and lined
with a delicate mucous membrane. The blad-der
is in front, the rectum behind, and the
vagina below.
Three Parts.- Physicians divide this
important organ into three parts,- the fundus,
body, and neck. The fundus is all the upper
rotUJded portion ; the body all that portion be­tween
the fundus aud the neck ; and the neck
all the rounded lower part.
The Cavity of the Uterus.-This is
divided into the cavity of the body an1l the
cavity of the neck. By consulting our illus­tration
it is seen that these cavities differ
greatly in shape ; that of the body being tri­angular,
while that of the neck IS barrcl­F•
:. :l. A lateral view of the contents of the f emale shaped.
pdvis 1. tlte vagina; 2, uterus ; 3. bladder; 4, lower
llowcl, G, hone formi!lg Lhe pubic ar<'h; G, the spinal
cord, with Lone in front and Lack of it.
By referHng again to Fig. 4 it \Yill be seen
that the cavity of the body has three opeuings,
one on either side at the top going to the
Fallopian tube~, and an opening at the bottom passing into the cavity of the neck,. A constriction
exists between these two cavities; bnt aftC'r chilclbirth this is largely done away with, and there is
not that mar keel rl ifference which existct~ formerly.
Glands in Uterus.-- In the mncou. 111emhraue lining the uterus are vast numbers of minute
tlanrl~ wt.ic•h sc>c•rctP lllltcus. It. h:ts been nRRertcd thnt in the cavity of the neck alone there
...
are from ten to twelve thousand of these glands. It is in this mucous membrane that such re­markable
changes occur each month during menstruation, and still more wonderful changes during
pregnancy.
The Ligaments of the Vterus.-By referring to Fig. 5 it will be seen that there are on
each side of the uterus fiat bands of tissue known as "broad ligaments." These ligaments are
Fm. 4. This Illustration shows the cavities In
a uterus which has t een pregnnn t. 1, the
vagina; 2, caYity of the neck of the uterus;
3, cavity of the body, above which is the
fundus of the uterus; 4, Fallopian tubes,
extending to the ovaries.
FIG. 5. The female generative organs. 1, the vagina;
2, uterus; 3, broad ligament of left side; 4, a smaller
ligament; 6, Fallopian tube; 6, ovary; 7, fringed end
of Fallopian tube.
attached to the sides of the pelvic cavity, and aid greatly in holding the uterus firmly in place.
There are also other ligaments concerned in this same work, although the broad Jigameuts are most
important. The illustration also shows the walls of the Yagi!l:J. cut open, in order that the position
FIG. 6. The blood-vessels of the
right side of the uterus. 1,
blood-vessels ; 2, end of the
Fallopian tube ; 3, ovary;
4, right edge of uterus.
of the mouth of the uterus may be easily seen.
Blood-Vessels Surrounding Uterus.-The
uterus is well supplied with blood-vessels, as .Fig. 6
shows. Indeed, there is all over the walls oi the
uterus and through its tissue a vast network of these
vessels. "Whenever, for any reason, the circulation
of the bloou through the pel vis is disturbed, these
blood-vessels are likely to become engorged, over­filled,
producing congestion and inflammation.
All Parts Closely Related.-The close rela­tion
of the~e blood-1•essels to the blood-supply of
the bowels, liver, etc., makes it possible for most
serious disturbances to take place even from slight
causes.
Study the Illustrations.- By studying these
illustrations it can be readily seen how an over­distended
rectum may produce such an impediment
to the circulation that there will be congestion of all
the neighboring parts. Or, the intestines themselves
may become over-distended with frecal matter, or
gas, from dyspepsia, and the pressure Induced thereby
may be sufficient to interfere with the free cucula.-
Uon of these parts, and thus uterine congestion produced. .
Ills also see~ how improper dress may compress the organs about these parts, and thus .t11!ier•
11
fere with the circulation. Again, it is easily understood, simply from studying the illustrat10n11
alone, how any of these causes might produce dislocation of the uterus itself.
Object of Uterus.-The uterus is the source of the menstrual discharge, a. place for the
fmtus during its development, and the source of the nutritive supply of this fmtus. It is the uterus
which contracts at full term and expels the child.
Uterus Not Rigidly Fixed. -In a perfectly normal condition there is considerable mobility
to the uterus ; in otller words, it is not fixed firmly by the ligaments already mentioned. It is
rather simply suspended, or hung in the pelvic cavity, by
these broad fiat bands of tissue.
A full bladder will push it backward, while a distended
rectmn will move it forward ; as the body changes its postme, .
so will the uterus change its position by force of grasily.
Cannot Be Bent Upon Itself. -The uterus cannot be
bent upon itself without producing injury; neither can it be
pushed too far forward or backward, nor crowded dowD. too
far without causing great distress and actual disease.
Fallopian Tube.-Figs. 4 and 5 {show that there is
given off from each side of the upper part of the uterus a
tube. This is called the Fallopian tube.
Each tube is about four inches long. Ncar the uterus its
cavity will just admit an ordinary bristle ; but near its free
end, at the ovary, it is as large as a goose-quill.
It is a peculiar tube in that it terminates in a number of
fringe-like processes, one of which is always attached to the
ovary itself.
Flo. 7. Part of an ovary, showing a
ripe ovum, or egg, about to be cast
off,. as occurs at each menstrual
period. It is here this egg may be
fertilize<! or impregnated by the male
clements.
Object of This Tube.- The Fallopian tube conveys the sperm of the male from the uterus
to the ovary, and also takes the germ-cell (or ovule, or egg) from the ovary to the uterus.
When a ripe egg is about to be discharged from the ovary, one of these fringe-like processes
of the Fallopian tube grasps it and receives it into the mouth of the tube, whence it is conveyed
directly into the uterine canal.
Ovary.- On each side of the uterus and in each side of the pelvic cavity is an ovary. It is
FIG. 8. This figure illustrates the course
followed by an ovum. The ripened egg
leaves the ovary (1), passes do1m the
Fallopian tube (2), and thence into the
uterine cavity (3).
FIG. 9. Au exceedingly minute piece of an ovary,
highly magnified. It shows eight ova or eggs.
about one and a half inches in length, three-fourths of an inch in width, and one-third of au inch
in thickness. It weighs from one to two drachms, and is an elongated, oval-shaped body.
Object of Ovaries.-The ovaries are the esseutiai organs of generation in the female. In
each ovary are large numbers of cells, ovules, or eggs, one of which, at lea t, is supposed to pass
mto the uterine cavity with each menstruation. Anatomists tell us that each human ovary contains
as many as 30,000 of these ovules. or eggs.
l~
LOCAL TREATMENT. -FAST PASSING AWAY,
lt. Makes One Indignant.- When I recall the terrible and almost horrible treatmen·t
'tfhich women have had to undergo in the past, r cannot help but become deeply indignant. l1
~aeems as if all medical study had gone for naught, as if the teachings of nature had beori forgottell,)
:llld, most of all, as if no such thing as delicacy and modesty existed.
This Makes Confirmed Invalids.-lt is only necessary for a woman to complain of dis..
eomfort m the back, a bearing-down pain, or some unnatural d1scharge, when some physician say .
&hat local treatment, and local treatment only, must be taken.
Women so thoroughly understand what their physician is gomg ~o say that they do not consul
him, but go on suJiering more and more nnttl they become almost confirmed invahds. Others
after they aro told what must be dono, return home and become gloomy and melancholy over the>
outlook.
Specialists Are Crazy for Work.-The specialists aro so crazy for tills land of work tha
tt seems as though they would gladly scrape and burn the inside of the stomach for dyspeps1a, iJ
they could do sol Or, they would take a long probe and go down into the interior of tho lungs
and -apply strong caustics, if such a thing were possible I . ·
The Patient Is Deceived. -If the ache, or the pain, or the discharge was on the back Of
the hand where it could be seen, and where these "treatments" could be watched, the specialists:
would have a hard showing indeed, for the patient herself would then see that little good came
from these local applications.
But being Situated within the body, so that only the physician himself can examme tho parts,
the patient has to rest content, not knowing whether a little pure water is applied (and the fee
collected), or whether the strongest acids which burn deep into the tissues are used (and the fee
collected) .
·Local Treatment Unnecessary.-Now all of th1s ts almost mvariably unnecessary. It i!f
not showing ordinary co=on-sense, not in accord with nature, and not 1n keeping with tho best
medical science of to-day.
Yet thousands upon thousands of women are undergoing the worst kind of mental aud physi
cal torture in taking these local treatments, while all the savings of the household have to go toward
paying the enormous bills of the specialist. ..
The True Doctor Not Blamed.-Do 110! miszmderstand me, ptease. J am twt tal/.:in.t!
against doctors, not against the 1·ecil, true, gmuine, noble pll:)'sicians and surgeons.
There is no nobler profession than that of the physician, none practiced more !atthfull}
than the good old family physician of this country practice theirs, The best of them are glacf
to help their patients m any way they can, and in spite of professional preJudice, many ha,·e
tried Lydia E. Pinkham's Vegetable Compound upon their patients and have been delighted
at the wonderful success of the trial.
Nature t he Best Teacher -The trouble with so many of these physicians who call theni
selves "Specialists on Diseases of Women" is that they get it into their head that they know m o~
than nature. They map out a course of their own, and pay no attention whatever to the laws oi
health. Just as if a dog barking at the moon would make it shine less brightly I
Now any one who has given any thought to the preservation of the health can readily under
stand how impossible it would be to cure an ·in.fiammation of the uterus or ovaries, or check aJI
unnatural discharge from the vagina, by applying strong acids, nitrate of silver, pure carbolic actd.
strong tincture of iodine, or other destroying, caustic, irritating, and dangerous drugs.
All of these must be injurious, must postpone recovery, and if their use be continued for anf
great length of time must make a cure quite impossible
A Good Med icine Needed. - Of course what is needed m these cases is something tb&l
will restore the natural circulation of the blood through the tissues of the uterus, something tl:.tl.'
will relieve congestion and cure inflammation. When the swelling and rrritation have subsided..
then the nerves are no longer irritated, and all pain disappears.
What This W ill Do.-Then all these parts become better nourished, the weakened anc
diSeased tissues take on new strength, aud all unnatural discharges cease.
When the relaxed ligaments are properly fed and toned up. then they hold tho uterus m It~
•llaturn.l position and all bearing-down pains and other symptoms of displacement qUickly disap.
13
pear. Of course this constitutional treatment with Lydia E. Pinkham's Vegetable Compound is
haatened by keeping the parts perfectly clean, which can be easily done with Lydia E. Pinkham's
~(Ulath·e Wash .
. A Hear.ty Welcome to the Perfect Cure.-A hearty welcome to the most scientific treat­.
u ent ;.a hearty. welcome to the most natural, the most easy, and the most perfect method of cure;
"hearty welcome to Lydia E. Pinkham's Vegetable Compound; a. hearty welcome to the remedy
that never fails to restore the uterus to perfect health and natural position.
CHAPTER VI.
MENSTRUATION.
Occurs Monthly.- Once every twenty-eight days >ery remarkable changes occur in the
uterus, giving rise to that peculiar monthly periodicity called menstruation, monthly sickness,
monthlies, or being unwell. Although this usuaJiy occurs once in aboutjfour weeks, yet it may be
a week less or a week longer; or, indeed, the variation may be even greater than this.
Symptoms of its Approach.- As a perfectly nattual menstrual period approaches, there
is a certain degree of discomfort and lassitude, a sense of weight in the lower part of the body,
and more or less disinclination to enter society. These symptoms may be slightly pronounced or
very prominent, for it is quite unusual to find a person who does not have at least some general
discomfort at this time.
Its Appearance.- First there is a slight discharge of mucus which soon becomes of a rusty
brown or yellow color from the mixture of a small quantity of blood. By the second or third day
.the discharge has the appearance of pure blood. The unpleasant sensations which were so
marked at first now gradually subside, and the discharge, after continuing for a certain number
of days, grows more and more SC(Ulty. The color ch(Ulges from a pme reel to a rusty tinge, and
finally disappears altogether. Then the ordinary duties are resumed.
The Age of Puberty. -Menstruation begins at about fomteeu or fifteen years of age, thi.e
period being known as "the age of puberty." It is preceded and attended by peculiar signs.
The whole figme becomes more plump and round, the hips increase in breadth, and the breasts
rapidly develop. The more striking changes, however, occur in the inclinations and emotional
susceptibilities.
Age Modified.- A great many circumstances modify the age at which the first menstrua,.
. tion takes place. In hot climates this takes place earlier, the diffe~ence between hot and cold
countries being as great as three years; yet heredity has more to do with this than anything else.
"As wa.~ the mother so is the child" is a common saying among women.
Continues About Thirty Years. _:The menstrual function continues active f1·om this
age until about the forty-fifth year, although this may be extended even ten years later During
a.1.l these years the woman is capable of bearing children, because at each month there has been
a. fully developed ovum, or egg, ready to be fertilized.
~he Change of Life. - When the menstrual function ceases, then the period of child4
bearing is over. The time of its disappearance is known as "the change of life, or menopause."
Amount of Monthly Loss. - The amount of blood lost during menstruation varies
veatly with different indivicwals, and it would be quite impossible Lo gi>e anything like an
accurate rule. It varies, normally, from one to eight ounces, the average being probably about
fi'l'e otmces.
Duration of Period. - The duration of the period is from one to eight days, the average
being five days. Hence it will be seen that the average loss of fluid per day would be about
one ounce.
Loss Should Be Small.- It sl,wuld be stated here that, as a rule, those enjoy the best
health who lose but a small quantity of blood at this time. • orne persons seem to think that a
>ery free discharge is necessary, and that they feel better at such times ; but there is no possible
reason ,..,·hy this should be the case.
14
The First Menstruation.- The appearance of the first me!Uitruation is a most crttical.
time in the life of every young girl, and the mother should be prepared to give her daughter the
best of advice. Some slight inattention, some undue exposure, some thoughtlessness due entirely
to ignorance on these great subJects, may change the whole future from a life of comfort a.nd good
health to prolonged days of misery and intense suffering.
Menstruation and Childbearing. - It is the belief at the present time, among aU who
have studied this subject, that menstruation 1s closely connected with the function of childbearing,
The changes which take place each month within the uterine cavity are of precisely the propel
character to prepare this tissue for the receptiOn of the fertilized egg.
Rules to be Observed. - A few rules should be carefully followed during each menstrua
t.ton, m order that future trouble may be prevented First of all, ~~ lS necessary t o avoid taking
cold ; yet a person should not stay m the house by the side of a fire, or m a warm room all the
time, for this would increase the susceptibility to cold.
Care should be taken to avo1d undue exposure, for nothmg will di~turb the menstrual
process quicker than the sudden chilling of the body especially when moist w1th perspiration.
Intense mental exCitement should be avoided, also. If the young girl 1s at school, she should
be told to study more lightly at this time while any grea~ excitement of any kmd, as giving way
to anger, or extreme mernment, should be avoided.
The feeling of debility and depression which usually accompanies this t1me is a gentle wariilng
by nature that the body should remain quiet and at rest.
It ts natural for many persons to be especially depressed at this time ; a.n effort should be
made by those who understand the situation to make everything as agreeable and pleasant ae
possible to the sufferer.
Danger to Schoo) Girls -Without the slightest doubt, many women are suffering in
tensely to-day who might be enJoying the best of health bad they not been obliged to study so
intensely while in school. A moderate amount of study does no harm at this time, but the dread
of examinations, with our modern system of cramming at certain times of the school year, has,
without doubt, so worked upon the nervous system that many a life has been made miserable as ~
result.
Danger to Office Girls. -It is astonishing, when one fully unde_rstands the processeS<
of menstruation, how so many girls and young women can remain all day behind the counter i
Lhe store, or at the work-table, during these few trymg days, and even escape without serious
illness. Employers never think ot the subject, and there is a natural delicacy on the part ol
those most concerned to mention the subject.
There should be in all such establishments" some woman to whom these girls could confide
their condition. This woman, 01 overseer, could easily be made responsible for the apparent
ueglect of duties by these girls at such times.
Criminal Carelessness. - How often is it true that young ladies attend balls, skate, and
otherwise recklessly expose themselves at this most critical time. One is almost mclined to call
such exposures really criminal, because of the terrible consequences so sure to follow .
.A simple wetting of the feet, or resting quietly in a draught after exercise, during menstrua­tion
may impose upon the person a. I ife-long injury. How carefully, then, should mothers watch
their daughters at these periods, and how strongly should they impress upon them the necessity of
lllpeCial care.
Condition of Bowels Important. -The condition of the bowels should also be carefully
iookcd after at these times. Indeed, this is so important that it should never be neglected
There should be at least one good movement of the bowels each day. Nothing can more certainly
derange the menstrual function than persistent constipation.
Regularity Important. - Every mother should make careful inquiry into the exact
frequency of the menstrual period with her young daughter, at least during the first two year&
1>f the menstrual function.
If there is pain at this time, then something is certainly wrong, and treatment should be
taken at once. If there is irregularity, this also requires most prompt attention, as it will surely
illPvelop into something serious sooner or later. If the flow is too free, or not free enough, or if
there is any deviation from the standard of health, the mother should be acquainted with it, and
itlOuld proceed at once to correct the difficulty,
First Two Years Very Important.-If a girl can get through the first two years of her
menstrual life without serious disease, she stands a very good chance of enjoying good health
during the rest of her life ; while a slight mistake at this time may produce the most serious
"disease in later life. If you do not understand your ailments write to :.V!rs. Pinkham, Lynn, Mass.
Her advice is free and always helpful.
CHAPTER VII.
t!SORDERS OF MENSTRUATION .
.Amenorrhcea.-This i~> ;1, condition in which the monthly flow is suspended. It can p.ardly
be called a disease, as it is rather a symptom of some disorder of the uterus, or of some constitutional
defect. This may occur at the time when menstruation should normally appear, namely, from
fourteen to fiiteen years of age.
Danger of a Decline.-If the young girl does not menstruate at sixteen, seventeen, or
eighteen, so111ething is certainly wrong, and treatment should be taken at once in order to correct
the difficulty before the girl goes into a decline. n is not wise to trust too much to nature in
these cases.
Such girls are generally thin and pale, with a peculiar sallow, or yellowish-green color to the
skin which has given rise to the term "green-sickness," or "Chlorosis." They fall easy victims
to scrofula, consumption, nervous prostration, insomnia, and other diseases.
Treatment. - ·when the time for menstruation arrives, and the flow does not appear, the
mother should give her daughter regular doses of Lydia E. Pinkham's Vegetable Compound. Thie
remedy acts strictly according to the laws of natm·e, and simply brings about natm·al conditions.
For some reason nature may not succeed in beginning this important change in the girl's life,
but with the help that comes from the Vegetable Compound , this is sm·e to come to pass.
• How Lydia E. Pinkham's Vegetable Compound Acts.- A better circulation is estab­lished,
the condition of the blood is improved, the nervous system is greatly invigorated, and, as a
result, the menstrual flow is established.
Th1s should set at rest a great deal of worry on the part of the mother, and it means a great
deal to the daughter, as well. Now, the mother can be assured that one great danger is passed,
and, with proper care and attention, there need be no more trouble.
Lydia E. Pinkham s Vegetable Compound, however, should be taken for some weeks or months
until the habit is well established and menstruation appears regularly every twenty-eight days.
Delicate Girls. -If the young girl menstruates, and yet is not in good health, then she
should certainly take the Vegetable Compound for a week before the time when menstruation is
expected; the great object being to establish regularity in the menstrual function.
Keep the Bowels Regular.-In all these cases attention should be given to the condition
ot the bowels, which are usually constipated. To correct this, the girl should take laxative doses
of Lydia E Pinkham's Liver Pills, just enough each night so that there may be one good, natural
mo1·ement the day following.
Look Well t o the Diet. -A
especially at this time, have a most
cakes, and other mdigestible foods.
and keep the blood thin.
great deal can be done, also, in the way of (liet. Girls,
perverted appetite, preferring pickles, olives, r ich pies and
These are all bad, of course, as they disturb the digestion
Let the diet consist principally of rich milk, eggs, lamb chops, beefsteak, chicken, and good
bread and butter. If the milk rests heavy on the stomach, then add a tablespoonful of lime water to
each glass of mtlk.
Daily exercise in the open air is also of value, and the sleeping-room should be well ventilated,
e pecially at night.
Jl.fenstruation Suspended During Pregnancy. - During pregnancy menstruation Is
usually suspended, although the regular monthly· flow may continue for two or three months.
Of course, suspension at this time is natural, an1l nothing ~;hould be done to bring on the flow.
16
lf menstruation appears when there is a st.rong probability that pregnancy exists, then tu
person should remain quietly in bed and eat only light food, and every precaution should be taktlll
est a miscarriage be brought on.
Should a Mother Nurse Her Child While Menstruating?- Menstruation JB a.lsc
usually suspended during nursing, although not infrequently this function is resumed again three
or four months after childbirth. The question here arises whether the mother should continue to
nurse her child while menstruating.
If the child remains healthy, keeps steadily galnlng m weight, and seems to be well nour1sheu,
.1.nd if the mother is not losing ground in any way, then there is no reason why the mother should
not keep on nursing her child. If, however, the mother's health fails, or if there 1s evidence tha
the child is not prospering, then weaning should take place.
Aa a rule, a menstruating mother does net have good mllk for her child ; It IS usually thin and
watery, although, as I have said, under certam cond1t10ns nursing may continue.
Sudden Suppression. - Sudden suppress1on of menstruation is most generally due to r.
OO•u, mental shock, or undue exposure of some kmd. It is always accompanied with pain in the
"back, headache, more 01 tess fever, and other unpleasant symptoms. It should generally 1>9
considered as a dangerous condition, and every effort should be made to restore the menstrua!
function. Sometimes when menstruation is suddenly suppressed m this way, a so-called " vicari­ous
" menstruation occurs, and there 1s hemorrhage from the lungs, the nose, the gums, the
bowels, or from some other source.
Treatment of Suppression.- The treatment ot sudden suppression cons1stf! ot a hot foot.
bath, or sitting in a tub of hot water. At the same time the person should drink a bowl ot bot
ginger tea, or hot lemonade, be covered well with blankets, and every effort be made to bring about
a profuse sweating. Then have the person go to bed, and apply hot cloths across the lower part oi
the bowels. Place at the feet bottles of hot water, or hot bricks, and keep up the perspiration in
this way for an hour or two. This is all that need be done m the great majority of cases.
Only One Medicine to be Xaken.-Aa the shock to the system tends to disturb the
menstrual function for some time to come, the person should begin at once with Lydia E.
Pinkhamfs Vegetable Compound, and should continue lt through the coming month, in order tc
Insure that the next menstruation may be normal in every way.
Scanty Menstruation.- Often menstruation appears with perfect regularity and yet 1!1
greatly deficient in amount. As we have stated elsewhere, there is no rule about this, and yet.
when the menstrual function is scanty, it is almost invariably a symptom of anremia, or poverty of
the blood.
Anremic Girls.- Such girls are listless, easily tired, nervous with little appet1te, poor
digestion, and with no resistive power.
By taking Lydia E. Pinkham's Blood Purifier regularly a most remarkable change is brough~
~about ; and by the use of an easily digested and very nourishing diet, as just given in thial
chapter, together with plenty of outdoor exercise, this condition can be corrected before senoWI
trouble ensues.
Dysmenorrhcea.- This is better known as "painful menstruation." It is due to a large
number of causes, and yet can almost invariably be relieved by proper treatment.
Two Great Causes.- In the grea· majority of cases the cause is two-fold: Weakness of the
nerves and congestion of the uterus. These are so closely allied that it is often quite impossible to
tell which is t:..e ruling factor ; indeed, one seems to be largely dependent upon the other.
It is certainly true that congestion of the uterus almost mvaria.bly produces neuralgia ol
different parts of the body ; while nervous exhaustion, nervous prostration, neuralgia, and general
nervousness often show themselves by this. increased pain at the menstrual period.
Symptoms of Dysmenorrhcea. - · Usually the most marked pam is before the tlow ts well
established. The person has a heavy pain m the lower 'part of the bowels, with sharp, darting
pains extending down the back of the hmbs. Then the pam becomes more concentrated in the
uterus itself, or sometimes In an ovary at the side.
The pain may begin as a dull, heavy ache, which gradually changes into a sharp, darting pain~
and which culminates at last in distinct and positive attacks. of uterine colic, or cramps.
The person su.ffers such intense pain that a chill may be produced which is followed by a high
fever. Often the pains are of a bearing-down character, and are not unlike those in the last ~tagee
J>t ordinary Ia bor
J
11
Often Make a Complete Wreck.- These atLacks of uterine cramps tell severely on Lho
general health of the person, and if they are allowed to continue without treatment, they almost
rovariably make a compleLe wreck of the constitution.
Can Be Cured.-This most distressing and most agonizing complaint may be quickly
and entirely cured by a thorough course of treatment with Lydia E Pinkham's Vegetablf
Compound. This remedy should be taken continuously ; not a day should pass without. tbe
tegular dose.
Old Case& Cured.- If the disease has existed for some time, It must not be expected that it
can be cured in a month, but by perseverance the cure will certainly come and will be perfectly
satisfactory.
A Valuable Aid. - ln the meantime, the person who sufiers from painful menstruation, a
day or two before menstruation is expected, should take Lydia E. Pinkham's Veget.able Compound,
being careful to keep the bowels in good condition.
Additional Treatment.-If possible, the petson had better remain in bed, or recline
upon a sofa, for at least a day before the expected menstruation, certainly as soon as the first
lillCOmfortable symptoms appear. Then have her take a hot foot-bath, get into bed and cover with
warm blankets, with bags or bottles of hot water. or hot bricks at the feet and back, and witb
wat·m cloths over the lower part of the abdomen.
Temporary Relief.-If the pain is exceedingly severe. aud is not relieved by these simple
measures, then wring out flannel cloths from as hot water as can be borne and place these over the
lower part of the bowels, directly over the uterus, covering them with dry fl11.nnels. As soon as
these become cool, change for hot cloths again, using care, of course, that the cloths be not. hot
enough to burn. It is often surprising what instant. relief from pain this simple procedure will
produce.
Do Not Take Opium.- No one should think for a moment of taking opium in any form
at these tilnes, as the opium habit is very easily contracted and is almost impossible to break up
This is also true of other anodyne remedies. By carrying out the suggestions given above, it will
be found that their use will not be necessary. ·
Thousands of Grateful Letters.-If the readers of this book could only see the-thousands
of letters from grateful women the world over telling how this Vegetable Compound relieved
them from the fearful torture which they had been enduring for years once a month, they would
use every endeavor possible to spread the good news to every suffering friend that at last there
is a perfect and absolute cure for this most distressing and most frightful complaint.
Reasons for these Startling Cures.- The reason why Lydia E. Pinkham's Vegetable
Coml\ound works so admirably in these cases is easily understood when we call to mind the fact
that some of its ingredients are the strongest of nerve tonics, building np, strengthening, and giving
tone to the whole nervous system; while other ingredients have the remarkable property of reliev­ing
congestion of all the female generative organs.
To mustrate "Congestion." -If a string be tied around the base of the finger snugly, but
not too tightly, the finger soon becomes darkened from the obstructed circulation. We say the
finger is " congested." All that has to be done. in this case, is to cut tbe string and the congestion
is promptly relieved.
Cures Congestion. - In cases of congestion of the uterus. J,ydia E . Pinkham's Vegetabl6
Compound removes obstmction to the ci rculation as effectually as cutting the string relieves th~
congestion of the finger. Wl1en the circulation iR perfectly natural through these parts, then thf
congestion and infl.a=ation must disappear and the uterus itself must again resUille its naturr,.i
position.
Menorrhagia. -This is better known as" profuse menstruation.' ' .Tust what constitutes an
·mnatura:l loss of blood cannot be staled, as each woman is a rule to herself. From experience sbt
>~' no~s just about what is the normal amount she should lose each month and retain her healtb
'nd strength.
'When this amount is more than natural, especially when sufficient to produr.e weakness anc
prostration, then it becomes "profuse.''
Occurs in the Full-Blooded.-Profuse menstruation may occur in those who are very
full-blooded, Qr in those who are extremely weak and pale When occurring in the former, tht<
person usually complains of a dull, heavy, throbbing headache, pain in the back, and other syro1•
is
Loma of fevel!. Suer. persons recover from an excessive fiow of blood Q.uit.G prompt.}. and do n<a
•uffer severely from it.
Occurs in the Pale.- On the other hand, when this condition occurs m those who are ler;J
'N pale, a.nd thin, there is usually great prostl·ation, which may even become most alarmmg.
Treatment for the Former.-When profuse menstruation occurs in those wh ;u full
!llooded, the diet should be quite simple and plain. Indeed, it would be better it the person houlci
toake but two meals a day and should eat but little or no meat. Immediately upon thll appearance
l>f menstruation s!le should go to bed a.nd remain there as quiet as possible, for in this way the pam
r.nd fever will be less a.nd the amount of the ftow greatly diminished.
Treatment When Pale and Debilitated.-It is a much more oenous matter when thia
6xcessive loss occurs in those who a.re pale and debilitated. Often the most energetic measure.r
are necessary even to preserve life itself. The following rule should be observed when possible:­J
ust as soon as menstruation appears, the person should go to bed and remain there quietly until the
fiow is nearly ovell'.
Of course, it is an easy matter to give these directions, and exceedingly hard, often quite impos­eible,
for tl..::lm to be carried out. Many women have work that must be done, or children who
must be cared for during these days just as well as any other time, and it is almost out of the ques.
tion for them to remain quiet.
Yet the question seems to be whether they will remain in bed two or three days at this time,
and then have far better health for the rest of the month, or whether they will drag along through
all the month. We would certainly urge that. this suggestion be camed out as often as possible.
~md that for one or two days the p&son keep a.s quietly in bed as possible. .
When Very Excessive. - If the ftow 1s very free, then the foot of the bed may be ra1s00.
three or four inches by placing blocks of wood under each lower corner. This will tend f,o checll>
the flow
Wonderful Cures Possible.-Lydia E Pinkham's Vegeta.bl Compound llas made some
most startling and almost miraculous cures in just these conditions An immense number of
letters are on file from women who have despaired of relief, given up all hope, and who were
confirmed invalids until after taking this famous remedy. Its continued use heals the inflam­mation
in the cavity oi the uterus, causes a better circulation through that organ, makes the:
blood richer, strengthens the digestion, and thus greatly improveE the general health.
Relief is Prompt. - The very next month after beginning ita use the flow is diminished, th~
next month it is still less, and so on, until soon there is only a regulM.I, natural menstruation
A Happy Change. - And what a change this means to suffering women I It means new
bfG, new hope, new ambition, new courage, It means work better done, children better cared for,
and a.ll sociaJ. and domestic duties better performed. I am indeed most happy in being able to
tell suffering women what prompt relief Lydia. E. Pinkham's Vegetable Compound is sure tc.
bring them.
In these cases I always recommend the use of the Vegetable Compound in the form of
Lozenges, or Pills.
Metrorrhagia.-When there lB great loss of blood at other times than during the menstrual
veriod, it is given the technical name of metrorrhagia. It means " uterine hemorrhage."
Keep the person quietly in bed, and have the foot of the bed raised as suggested above. 11 the.
hemorrhage is at all severe, a physician should be summoned in order that a. careful examination
may be made a.nd the cause of this unusual occurrence thoroughly understood. If you do not
understand your ailments write to Mrs. Pinkham; Lynn, Mass. Her advice ia fu~•
and always helpful. All such letters are strictly confidential ; only women assist her in lW­swering
them.
CHAPTER VIII.
DISEASES OF THE UTERUS AND OVARIES.
Inflammation of the Uterus.- Inflammation of the uterus may be either acute or chronitl.
When acute, as following an abortion, taking cold during menstruation, etc., there is considerabl•
fever, pain in the lower part of the bowels, nausea, and sometimes vomiting, tenderness Oil<
peasure o.-.er the uterus, pain when passing the urine, and general discomfort.
l:J
Xreatment of the Acute Form.- The treatmeut cuusists in ha.viug the pcr:;uu rcma.in
quietly in bed, applying bottles of hot water to the feet, if they are cold, and keeping cool cloths
over the head if hot from the fever. In this way the circulatiou may be better balanced, aud the
tendency to congestion relieved.
Then take a flannel cloth about six inches square, dip it in hot water, and wring a.s dry as
possible with the hands ; now sprinkle ordinary spirits of turpentine freely over one side, and
place this side directly over the centre of the lower part of the bowelo, that is, just over the uterus.
Cover this flannel with another warm, dry flannel, and allow it to remain on until the smartiug is
quite pronounced, or the skin red. Then remove this, and apply hot cloths wrung from hot water.
Use the turpentine cloth again in four cr six hours, if the tenderness all(! pain still persist.
Only One Medicine Needed. - 'Begin at once with Lydia }~. Pinkham's Vegetable
Compound, in order that the attack may be cut short. This the Compound will certainly do
if taken faithfully according to directions.
Alter the acute attack is over, if there is any constipation, this should be relieved by Lydia E.
Pinkham's Liver Pills; and if there is any discharge from the uterus, Lydia E. Pinkham's Sanative
Wash should be used once or twice each day, in order to hasten recovery all that is possible.
Chronic Inflamma tion. - It is not exaggerating in the least to say that probably 75 out of
e\·ery 100 women in the world have more or less chronic inflammation of the uterus.
Causes.-The causes of this are many, as improper d!·ess, which constricts the waist, and
presses down upon the delicate organs in the pelvis ; improper attention to the ealth at each
menstruation; over-work ; anxiety; miscarriages ; unskillful treatment at childbirth, etc.
Lives of Suffering and Sorr ow.- What miserable lh·es women have to endw·e who go
about from day to day with a chronic inflammation of the uterus. Each hour there is that
dragging, pulling, bearing-down pain ; that heavy weight ; that ten-ible depression ; and that
feeling of abandoned hope. Yet hundreds of thousands, I might say millions of women )lave
had all thiS suffering and sadness turned to joy and comfott, simply by taking Lydia E. Pink-ham's
Vegetable Compound. •
Stories Almost Beyond Belief.-The stories received from our friends seem almost beyond
belief. The most striking of them cannot be printed because I fear my readers would think such
cures were quite impossible. The letters tell as terrible stories, as frightful conditions as could
possibly exist, and yet all this has quickly and promptly changed to robust health by the use of
Lydia E. Pinkham's Vegetable Compound. So often has this been reported that there is not
the least room for doubt.
I S,p eak Positively.- I am not guessing in tu is matter ; it is altogether too serious; there
is too much at stake. So I urge upon you to giYe Lydia E. Pinkham's Vegetable Compound
a thorough trial, feeling positive, without the slightest question of a doubt, that you will bo quickly
and permanently cured.
Leucorrhrea.- This is also known as "the whites, or the female weakness." It i · a
symptom of iufia=ation of the uterus ; and that this disea e is so prevalent is again proved by
this almost universal ailment among women.
It is characterized by a white discharge from the vagina which often becomes very irritating,
and is especially bad just before or after menstruation. It is a symptom that should not be allowed
to go untreated, for it shows that there is serious trouble which may bring about an incurable
condition. Yet when properly treated, it may be quickly remedied, and all d~nger removed.
Treatment.- First of all, it is necessary to remove the inflammation that exists iu the
uterus itself. This is done by the persistent use of Lydia E. Pinkham's Vegetable Compound.
As I have described elsewhere, this will remove all congestion, heal the inflammation, and bring
about a healthy circulation. For this I strongly reco=end that Lydia E. Pinkham's Sanative
Wash be also used with a syringe for local treatment.!
1 Cleansing, antiseptic douches are very necessary Tor every woman who has uterine or ,·ngiual troubles,
and for this purpose we recommend "Paxtiue Tot let Antiseptic," applied with a Ruth l'axton Improved
Fountain Syrin!l"e. Paxtiue is the successful prescription of a noted Boston physician, and the Paxton
Syringe is espectally constructed to convey the solution to every part of the vagtnal cavity, and in this fea­ture
it is au improvement over old kinds. If you would like to try Paxtine before buying it you can by ad­dressing
the R. Paxton Co., Pope Building, Boston Mass., get a trial package and boOk of instructions free.
The regular price of Paxtine is soc. a large box, and the Ruth Paxton Improved Fountain Syringe $1.75 at all
druggists, or sent by mail postpaid upon receipt of price by the R. Paxton Co. This is not intended to take
the place of the Sanative Wash, which has healing properties not possessed by Paxtine, but for cleansing
the latter is unexcelled and should be used for that purpose before the Sanative Wash is applied.
' :.:u
'I his sht>uld be used each night as a. vaginal injection, according to directJons, thus thoroughly
cleansing the parts, and entirely relieving all irritation which these acrid secretions are sure
to set up.
U this discharge has been irritating enough to cause any chafing, eruption, itching, or
uncomfortable 15ensa.tlon of any kind about the external p!U'ts, then the ana.tive W&ih should be
used for bathing the pa.rts ; the relief will be immediate, and the cure very prompt._
May Be Quickly Cured.-! speak with great positiveness here, because of vast. experieMe
and because of the universal success of this u·eatznent. I do not. believe there i& a case of leu­corrhrea
which cannot be relieved and soon p&ma.nent.ly cured by this treatment. There is no
delay ; relic1 <JOmes at once. A great improvement in all the symptozns is very marked, even after
the second o~ third day of treatment.
Neglect Causes Ulceration. -1 would add a word of caution here to women who are
afflicted in this way, as the retention of these discha.rges is likely to produce an irritation about
the mouth of the uterus which will result in serious ulceration, and even be the means of pro­ducing
the most serious and most incurable diseases.
Ulcers on the Uterus.- Because of the low condition of the system, thin blood, and the
local inflammation in the uterus itself, ulcers may form about the mouth of _the uterus. These are
accompanied by more or less pain, a sense of heaviness and weight in the lower part of the
bowels, and whitish discharge similar to that of leucorrhrea only frequently streaked, or tinted,
with blood. The discharge continues about the same all through the month between the days of
menstruation. This condition should have the same treatment as that mentioned above for leucor­rhrea,
and the recovery will be equally prompt.
Early Treatment Necessary.-If women only mulerstood better how easy a. matter it is
for these ulcerations to widen and deepen until some incurable and terrible disease results, they
would be more prompt in taking treatment, especially when this is sure to be followed by a.
perfect cure.
When the blood is thin and poor, and when the weight is reduced, Lydia E Pinkham's Blood
Purifier should be used regula.rly.
The Blood Purifier, the Vegetable Compound, and the Sanative Wash, have done as great.
work in preventing serious disease as in curing it.
Displacement of the Uterus Forward. -The uterus may be displaced either forward,
backward, or downward. By referring to the illustration in the first part of this book, it will be
noticed that the uterus naturally tips slightly forward, so that when it is displaced forward, th~
condition is simply ~ e.x;aggeration of its naturaJ state.
Causes Bladder Trouble.- .By referring to this illustration again, it is at once appa.rent
that this tipping forwa.rd must 1:1_ring about some difficulty with the bladder, and such is the case.
The most ma.rked symptom is painful and frequent passing of the urine, with a dull and heavy
pain across the lower pa.rt of the bowels. Often this weight is so increased by walking that the
person can be upon the feet only a short time without causing discomfort and pain.
This condition may be brought a.bout by some unusual effort at lifting, jumping, or strain­ing,
or especially by wearing too tight clothing about the waist, tight lacing b.eing probably the
most frequent cause of all.
The Cure.- The general treatment here consists in taking a thorough cour:;e of treatment
with Lydia E. Pinkham's Vegetable Compound, in order to strengthen the ligaments of the
uterus which hold this organ in place. When the condition of the system is improved, the
nerves strengthened, and the blood made more rich by the use of this Compound, then these
ligaments partake of this general improvement, and by becoming more tense, bring the uterus
back into position.
Displacement Backwards.- The uterus may be tipped backward, in which case it will
rest against the lower boweL The principal symptom here is pain in the lower part of the back,
as if a movement of the bowels were necessary. There is great discomfort in walki:ng, because of
this sense of pressure. The pain is always increased when tbe bowels move, and is associatlld
with a sense of obstruction, and painful menstruation is very common.
The Treatment. -Here the same treatment should be followed as mentioned for the oppo­site
condition above. In the first place, the bowels should be kept in good condition by the use
of Lydia E. Pinkham's Liver Pills, ta.king these in just sufficient amnunt to cause a free mov&-
ruenL of the bowels daily Then thorough and prolonged treatment with Mrs Pinkhaw·M
Vegetable Compound will give such strength and tone to t,he ligaments about the uterus tha~ they
will again bring back this organ to its proper position.
Falling of the Womb.-The most distressing of all these displacements is that known a!<
" ·prolapsus, or falling of the womb."
The most frequent cause of this condition is complete relaxation of the ligaments which
naturally support this organ. When the ligaments become weak, they easily stretch, and bur,
allow the uterus to fall down into the vaginal canal, even nearly to the surface of the body.
Symptoms.-This displacement causes irritation of the bladder and lower bowel, discoru
fort in walking, painful menstruation, leucorrhooa, a dragging pain in the back, and most markett
bearing-down pain in the lower part of the body.
The Cure Is Certain.- The treatment of this most distressing affection is usually followed
by prompt and permanent results. Lydia E. Pinkham's Vegetable Compound should always be
taken,· because or its great power to relieve all inflammation and give strength and tone to the
ligaments which hold up the uterus. Lydia E. Pinkham's Sanative Wash should be used, also,
for its cleansing and strengthening properties, on the local parts. If a sitz bath-tub is in the house
it may be used to great advant::tge in these cases. A single pail of water will be sufficient, and
should be as hot as can be comfortably borne. If a tub of this kind is not at hand, then an ordi
nary bath.tub may be used, having m it sufficient water to come well over the hips when the person
sits in it.
The One Permanent Cure.- By taking Lydia E. Pinkham's Vegetable Compound, these
relaxed ligaments are given strength and tone so that they assume their former power. As they gain
strength they contract, pulling the uterus up into its natural position, and holding it there per-manently.
·
I can most positively assure every woman who is suffering from all the discomfort and
terrible distress which always accompany falling of the womb, that she may be promptly and
most perfectly cured if she will only follow my advice.
An Abundance of Proof.-So many letters have come from women who have suffered and
ha\·e been cured that it is not possible for a reasenable person to doubt what they say. I
can only urge all affected with these complaints to give Lydia E;. Pinkham's Vegetable Com­pound
a good trial, feeling perfectly assured that they will be abundantly satisfied in every way.
lf you do not understand your ailments write to Mrs. Pinkham, Lynn, Mass. Her advice is
free and always helpful. Such letters are strictly confidential communications from one
woman to another who will never betray the confidence.
CHAPTER IX.
DISEASES OF UTERUS AND OVARIES (Continued).
Ovaries, Congestion of.-This disease usually comes from taking cold during menstrua..
tion, from some injury, extra strain during lifting, or from some slow inflammatory process.
The symptoms are pain and tenderness in one or ·both sides of the lower part of the body
There is more or less continuous pain, which is always worse in standing or walking. The tender
ness in the sides is increased during menstruation, especially if pressure be made over the part.
Sometimes the pain is quite severe when the bowels move. There is always a feeling of distress,
frequently associated with nausea, and often· more or less fever.
Treatment.- For treatment the person should have as good smroundiDgs as possible. and
should take complete rest during menstruation. •
In order to relieve the congestion in these parts and thoroughly control the pain, Lydia E
Pinkham's Vegetable Compound should be taken at once.
Removal of Ovaries.- This condition of the ovaries gave rise to the practice of removing
these organs. Just as soon as a woman consulted a physician and complained of tenderness ovex
~ he ovaries, he was sure to advise her to have these organs removed.
Less Operating Than Formerly. -But this practice is rapidly passing away, and the very
4urgeous who were so anxious to operate a few years ago are now found advising against it. Th~
lB because of the serious results which follow this operation. While the pain and tenderness UJ
hese parw would be relieved. yet c.hE" profound and overwhelming unpression made upon thfi ner
vou..q system, by producing such a remarkable change in the life of the woman, was even worse than
the disease itself.
Results of Removal of Ovaries.-Women who have had their ovaries removed· are fr&>
quently the victims of hysteria, melancholia, extreme nervous pro11tra.tion, insomnia, and other
distressing and dangerous complaints.
Surgical Operations Unnecessary.- Then, again, it is becoming well, known ovet: the
whole country that Lydia E. Pinkham's Vegetable Compound can relieve congestion and pain SO>
thoroughly that the surgeon's knife is unnecessary. I am so confident in this belief that i~
!:iardly seems ::_Jossible that any woman would continue to suJ'er in this way, when it is so· useles.&.
I know we can make every woman perfectly comfortable and at rest, no matter how long she ma:r
have suffered, if she will only follow our simple directions.
The One Certain Cut' e.-All she has to do is to keep her bowels in good condition by ta.kin&
Lydia. E. Pinkham's Liver Pills, and at the same time take a. thorough colll'8e of treatment with
the Vegetable Compound. If you have any friends or neighbors who are suffering from this dis.
ease, and who fear that it will lead to ovarian tumors, which must ultimately necessitate a dan­gerous
surgical operation, I urge upon you to tell them the story of this Vegetable· Compound.
Always Brings Good Cheer.- It bas brought happiness to so many homes, has relieved
110 much suffermg, and has cheered an<'!. comforted so many thousands of women, that. I am snr&
you will be doing a great deed of ch!ti:ity if you will only aid in spreading this glad news.
Tumors of the Uterus.- '• ne uterus is subject to tumors, o:r growths, the symptoms of
which are much Hke those of chronic infiammation. As a rule, the person suffering from these
tumorl! knows nothing whatever 'If their existence until some competent physician h~ told her
such is the case.
Fibroid Tumors.- T11e most common tumors are known as fi.broids. They are often small,
li.Ild yet sometimes attain a consid<>rable size.
Until within a few years surgeons were always anxious to operate upon these tumors ; but thi
,snow largely done away with, for they are not fatal in themselves, and only become serious when
they attain an exceedingly large 8ize, or, what is more frequently the case, cause e.xcessive flowing
during or between the menstrual periods.
Tumors Cured Without the Knife.- In these cases Lydia E. Pinkham's Veget.able Com­pound
shows its remarkable power to great advantage. By establishing a better circulation through
the uterus, and relieving the congestion in the surrounding parts, and by giving strength and tone
to the smaller blood-vessels, the hemorrhage is controlled and the in:fiammation is reduced. The
tumors cease to grow, diminish in size, and disa.r.-pear altogether under its tnfiuence.
Vagina, Inflammation of.-Occasiona.lly there is a.n acute and most intense inflammation of
the vagma. caused by exposure to cold, irritating discharges from the womb, th'.l use of pessaries,
supporters, or some contagious disease.
Ma.uy women sutler from this complaint towards the close of menstruation, when the dis­charges
are acrid and m<•st irri ta.ting.
Promptly Cured.- This inflammation can be promptly cured by the frequent use of Lydia
E. Pinkham's Sanative Wash. Prepare this strict.ly according to the directions on each package,
and use it as a. vaginal injection two or three times a day. The cure wiL. be hastened by employing
~ sitz-ba.th (sitting in a. tub of hot water, or in a batb-tuo).
To Prevent Extension of Disease.-In order to prevent the in:fiamma.tion from extending
lnto the uterus, it is always wise to take Lydia E. Pinkham's Vegetable Compound for a few day11
after an attack ef this kind.
Pruritus, Itching.-Pruritus, or itching of the external parts, is a most annoying affection,
which often renders life itself almost unendurable. Its most frequent cause is due to irritating
discharges from the uterus or vagina. Quite a large per cenV o£ the women who are passing tbrouglt
the" change of life" are troubled in this way.
It is also a marked symptom of diabetes, or "sugar in the. urine ; " and if the itching is a.M()o
clated with an unusually large flow of urine, together with dryness of the mouth and extreme
thirst, there fa a probability that the person is suffering from diabetes. In such a. case~ specimen
of the urine should be taken to a competent physician, and he should be asked to make a thorough
examination of it in order to d~flnitely determine this point.
23
i'reatment- The treatment of pruritus consists in keeping the parts thorouguly cleansed
by frequent vaginal injections of Lydia E. Pinkham's Sanative Wash, even three or four injections
daily; and ~so bathing the external parts with the same solution.
Can Be P r omp tly Con trolled. -Although medical writers so generally claim that this
disea.se is almost impossible to relieve, and although they recommend the application of severe
caustics, yet I have never found any difficulty in promptly controlling and curing this affection
by the faithful and persistent use of Lydia E. Pinkham's Sanative Wash as a local application and
the Yegetable Compound for its constitutional effects.
Constitutional Treatment Necessary.- Although this disease shows itself in only one
place, yet the difficulty is in the whole system, and can only be thoroughly removed by the inter­nal
use of Lydia E. Pinkham's Vegetable Compound. Thousands of letters from women tell
that their life of agony, distress, and sleeplessness was changed to one of perfect comfort
almost immediately upon the use of these remedies.
Bladder, Inflammation of.-Sometimes the inflammation of the vagina and uterus is so
severe that it involves the bladder; or an irritable condition of the bladder may be produced by a
pregnant uterus pressing forward against it ; or the uterus may be tipped forward a trifle more than
natural, and thus press against the bladder sufficient to cause initation.
Symptoms. -The principal symptom of congestion or inflammation of the bladder is a fre­quent
desire to pass the urine. This act is almost alw:cys painful, and is sometimes accompanied
with spasmodic contractions of the ,-,.alls of the bladder, causing severe straining.
May Become Chronic.-If treatment be neglected, this condition easily becomes chronic,
when it is very difficult to cure. Prompt treatment in these cases is strongly urged because it can
be cured in every instance, and thus an immense atnotmt of suffering avoided.
Treatment.- If possible, the person should remain in bed or recline on a couch. The diet
should consist largely of liquids, nothing being better than good milk. Meats, rich soups, and all
pa.<;tries should be avoided.
Mrs. Pinkham's Vegetable Compound should be taken at once, because of its most happy effect
in relieving congestion and inflammation of all the pelvic organs. Indeed, here is one instance
where the Vegetable Compound is alike useful to both sexes. The most flattering testimonials have
come from men who have tried th1s remedy "because it was in fhe house," and who were most
happily surprised to find that the relief walj prompt and the cure speedy. For all in-itable condi­tions
of the l.Jladder, whether of recent or old standing, I do not believe there is a remedy in the
world that holds out such great promises of complete relief equal to Lydia E. Pinkham's V.ege­table
Compound.
The Menopause, or " Change of Life."-This is a cessation of menstruation. It usually
occurs between the ages of forty and fifty years, although frequently before and even after this time.
Symptoms.- The person first notices that although menstruation had previously been regu­lar,
yet now it has become irregular, not appearing more frequently than once every six weeks or
two months ; or possibly passing over a month, and then appearing regularly again for the follow­ing
two or three months; or the flow may ba less and less month after month, until gradually it
disappears al~ogether; or, not infrequently, menstruation ceases abruptly, without any warning
whatever.
A Natural Con dition.-The change of life should be a perfectly natural condition, not
associated with any unpleasant symptom whatever. Yet this is rarely the case, while often the
suffering at this time is most intense in every way.
Affects Nervous System.-The most severe effects are frequently produced on the nervous
system. These are known as " heat flashes." It is a marked symptom with a great many women,
and is described as a sensation of waves of heat passing o\·er the body. Sometimes these are very
severe, causing the face to become very red, producing dizziness and intense headache.
Often there is melancholia, great depression, and not infrequently complete prostration of the
nervous system. The digestion may be disturbed, producing constipation, diarrhrea, dyspepsia.
loss of appetite, offensive breath, biliousness, etc. Most marked changes are certainly takmg
pi ce in the whole system, and it is but natural that every part of the body should be profoundly
impressed.
Not E xpensive Treatment.-I cannot urge too strongly upon my readers the necessity
of their taking Lydia E. Pinkham's Vegetable Compound all throuQ;h these remarkable changes.
24
It is not a great expense to take this Vegetable Compound in moderate doses folll' timeS a dat ioi
weeks, or even mouths, during these changes.
A Critical Time.-If this period of life be passed over in safety, then there may be yearlf
and years of robll.St health remaining ; while if it be not attended to properly, the remalnder of the
life may be one prolonged day of agony. Even when persotlll have suffered during all their D'l!!n­strual
life, they can now have perhaps a score or more of years of complete relief 11 they properlf
care for themselves during this change.
Keep Under Its Influence. -Lydia E. Pinkham'S Vegetable Compound is a great tllnic in
itself, bracing up the whole nervous system, aiding digestion, and causing all the force~~ of the body
to act more in accord with nature.
Then it has a special influence over the uterus and ovaries ; indeed, so marked is its powel'
to correct disease that all the trying days of the "change of life " may be passed over in perfeo
safety, if only the system be continuously kept under its influence.
May Be Made Easy and Natural.- Women who have been dreading this chang!!, and
who have been made to look upon it as something horrible to pass through, may now lay all such
anxiety aside, for Mrs. Pinkham long ago solved the problem of making this time of life 88 healthy
and natural as any other.
It is not claiming too much to say that if women everywhere will only take Lydia E. Pink­ham's
Vegetable Compound through this trying time, they will come out of it feeling better in
every way than they have felt for many years. If you do not understand your ailments, write
to Mrs. Pinkham, Lynn, Mass. Her advice is free and always helpful. Such letters aro
Jtrictly confidential and answered with the help of women only.
CHAPTER X.
PREGNANCY, ITS SYMPTOMS, DISEASES, . ETC.
Sometimes Difficult to Tell.- Even the most skilled physicians so:netimes make mistake
m stating that pregnancy exists "when it does not.
The First Sign.-The most valuable and striking sign of pregnancy is the cessation of tb.e
monthly periods; yet even this IS not always reliable. Sometimes menstruation continues for
three,or four months, especially during the first pregnancy, although this is exceedingly rare. As
a rule, to which there is hardly an exception, if menstruation ceases in a married woman who hat.
previously been regular, she is, in all probability, pregnant.
Other Signs. -Another important sign is the enlargement of the abdomen, althougn this
cannot be detected much before the fourth month. A valuable sign, also, is the enlargement of
the breasts, with a widening and browning of the pink ring around the nipples. Enlargement of
the breasts often begins as eal'iy as the second month, and is quite marked by the fourth or fifth
mouth
Morning Sickness.-Morning sickness IS a symptom present in the maJority of cases. lf
usually consists of a mark3d nausea upon rising, and perhaps vomiting. This may last only a few
hours in the early morning, or continue through the greater part of the day. It generally appearlil
in the second month and lasts only through the third month, although, in bad cases, it may con
tinue through the whole period, and very seriously affect the health.
Treatment.- There are any number of remedies reco=ended for the treatment of thit
morning sickness. What will cure one.case seems to be perfectly useless in another.
It has been my experience that the best way to manage these cases is 88 follows : Bave th
person take a slice of toasted bread, or a. toasted cracker, with a little cofiee if desired, while in
bed, remaining there at least half an hour after eating. Or, the person may take a glass of l1l.il.k
to which two tablespoo!!-fuls of lime water have been added. Then, by rising slowly and mom
about carefully, it is often possible to go through the day without any sickness whatenr. I ha
known many cases to be entirely relieved by eating a little ordinary pop-corn.
The Morning Meal. -The morning meal may consist of milk to which a h ttle lime wa~
nl!.s been added ; or a poached or soft-boiled egg. Sometimes sca.tped beef, lean and rare, salted
pd spread on very thin bread, quiets the stomach at once, ~hila · t iS highly nourishing.
,.
• • 25
Only One Medicine Needed.- It is sw·prising what happy changes Lydia E. Pinkham's
Vegetable CompoWld brings about in tltis condition. The irritability subsides, the digestion is
greatly improved, the nervous system is strengthened, ~tncl all these WlComfortable ~tnd disagreeable
~ymptoms pass away, The CompoWld should be taken in small doses three times a day, after
meals.
A Bandage May Relieve Nausea.-At. abdominal bandage will sometimes relieve the
morning Slckuess, if placed snugly, but not too tightly, about the body. It need be worn only a
week or two, for a trial, and should always be taken off at Jlight. If the nausea persists during
the day, then let the food be light and taken iTJ . mall amotmts, at frequent intetTals.
" Quickening."- This is another sign of pregnancy. The word refers to the detection by
the mother of the movements of the child. Although, without doubt, the child moves '!l·ithin the
m"ther at a much earlier period, yet these movements are too feeble to be noticed Wltil pregnancy
ha:; advanced four or four and a half months.
Other Symptoms of Pregnancy.- Other symptoms are morbid longings for Wlusual
articles of food, as sow· apples, vinegar, charcoal, clay, slate pencils, etc. These longings, however,
shouhl not be satisfied, as they do not represent the demand of natw·e for these substances. They
belong to the same class of changes which are shown by a marked difference in tho disposition of a.
person whereby the lively and cheerful woman becomes melancholy, gloomy, and irritable.
Diet During Pregnancy.- The diet during the whole of pregnancy should be generous,
yet easily digestible. A great many won ten do not change their diet at all, and if the person is in
good health and does not suffer in any way, there is no reason whatever why the diet should be
changed, unless the eYening meal be made somewhat lighter.
Eat Sparingly of Meat.- It is always •vise not to eat meat more than once a day. This
is because a meat diet throws more work upon tlle ki<lney~. an<l any failure of the kidneys increases
the probability of serious trouble at childbirth.
So far as is known, there is no foundation for the belief that any special article of diet has any
particular effect upon the development of the child.
Care of the Breasts.-The care of the breasts during pregnancy must be commenced early.
All pre~sure of the clothing should be removed, in order to give them full opportunity to deYelop
They should be kept warm, however, and well supported, if the size renders them uncomfortable.
Mothers Should Nurse Their Children.- Stati -tics show that the summer diarrllroas
and dysenteries, which carry off such immense numbers of cbil<lreu each yea.r, are almost unknown
among babies that nurse. It is the artificially fed child which suffers from m~sting diseases and
disturbances of the digestion which are so fatal to life. Therefore, every prospecti\·e mother should
do everythmg in her power to prepare for the proper nursing of her child.
Care of the Nipples.-If the nipples are flat, they can be pulled out gently each day with
the fingers, and thus the difficulty entirely reme<Ued. At the beginning of the last month of
pregnancy, the nipples should be hardened in order that nursing may be painless, and that all
tbsures, or cracks, may be avoided.
Every morning and night apply the follewing solution to the nipples with a piece of absorbent
cotton:-
Glycerite of Tannin, •
Water,
1 flni<l ounce.
1 tl uid ounce.
Allow thib to remain on the nipple. This caunot be used after confinement, for the bitter Last?
would be objectionable to the child.
Can Sex Be Foretold ? - Mothers often wish to know if it is possible to determine the
sex of the child before it is born. Although a great deal has been written on this subject,
aml a number of so-called rules have been made. yet it is absolutely impossible to tell whether the
child will be a boy or a girl ; and it is also equally impo . ible to do anything that could in any way
exert an influence in producing a child of the deRircd sex.
To Tell Time of Confinement.-For two lnmdred and eighty days, or forty weeks, the
prospective mother has been conducting her~elf in the best way ~he thought po «ible, that all good
might be exerted upon the new life. The qneRtiou now come. , ·when may the day of confinement
be expected ? I "iYe here a table for calculating this day, which I am sure will be fol!nd very con•
venient.
OBSTETRICAL TABLE.
Feb'y •••• ,1 2 a· 4 G 6 7 8 9 10 n 12 13 14 15 16 17 18 19 20 21 22 23 24 25 26 '¥1 28
No.,•r . • • • 8 9 10 11 12 13 14 15 16 17 18 19 20 21 22 23 24 25 26 '¥1 28 1!9 30 1 2 3 4 6 IDee.
March •••• ,1 2 3 4 5 6 :1 8 9 10 11 12 13 14 15 16 17 18 19 20 21 22 23 24 25 26 '¥1 28 29 30 31 I Dec'r . . • • 6 7 8 9 10 11 12 13 14 15 16 17 18 19 20 21 22 23 24 25 26 '¥1 28 29 30 31 1 3 3 4 5 Jan.
April .•.. ·11 2
Jan'y .... 6 7
3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 ll 12 13 14 15 16 17 18 19 20 21 22 23 24 25 26 '¥1 28 29 30
89Wll12»H15Wn~W20212223242526'¥1282930311234 !Feb.
llfay .•.•• ,! 2
Feb'y .... 56
3 4 6 6 7' 8 9 -10 ll 12 13 14 15 16 17 18 19 20 21 22 23 24 25 26 '¥1 28 29 30 311
789Wll12~H15WU~l9202122232425~'¥12812345£7M~
Scpt'r ...• ,1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 1.1 12 13 14 15 16 17 18 19 20 21 2'2 23 24 25 26 '¥1 28 29 30
June . . . . 8 9 10 ll 12 t~ 14 16 16 17 18 19 20 21 22 23 24 25 26 27 28 29 ao 1 2 3 4 5 6 7
Nov'r ..• • ·11 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 11 12 13 14 15 16 17 18 19 20 21 2'l 23 24 25 26 '¥1 2S 29 30
Aug. . . • • . 8 9 10 11 12 13 14 15 16 17 18 19 20 21 22 23 24 25 26 '¥1 28 29 30 31 1 2 3 4 5 6
!July.
I Sept.
Dec'r •.. •11 2 a 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 11 12 13 14 15 16 17 18 19 20 21 22 23 24 25 26 '¥1 28 29 30 31 I Sept'r . . . 7 8 9 10 11 12 13 H 15 16 17 18 19 20 21 22 23 24 25 26 '¥1 28 29 30 1 2 3 4 5 G 7 Oct.
As labor occurs in t!J,tllarger proportion of cases between '¥10 and 290 days from the first day of the last
mensti'Uatiou, 2l!O days Is tile averu.ge. Tile table presents at a glance the beginning aucl eud of 280 days for
every rlay in the year. Find the d;~te of menstruation in the upper line of the horizontal column, and the figure
below, With the corresponding montll, will iodicate 280 days.
To .A void Miscarriage.- The pregnant woman must be very careful as the usual time for
menstruation approaches. It is then that any nndue effort, nnusnal lifting, excessive grief, or
shock to the system, may- bring on a miscarriage. This )s especially true if such a misfortune has
· previously occurred.
A Great Preventive.-The most abundant testimony shows that Lydia E. Pinkham's
Vegetable- Compound is an almost certain preventive to miscarriage or abortion. It gives
strength to the uterine walls, quiets the first approach of pain, controls any spasmodic con­tractions,
and brings about such a healthy condition that all danger is averted. I cannot speak too
strongly of this Yegetable Compound for these cases. So many mothers have written us that
U1ey are now happy in. the possession of a child, when, for time and time again, they would
have a miscarriage at the third or fourth month.
Keep it in the House.-Every pregnant woman should always keep in the house a bottle
of Lydia E. Pinkham's Vegetable Compound. She does not know the day when she will need it,
and when that day comes she will require it promptly .
. At any time when there is soreness, tenderness, unusual pain, any unnatural discharge, or any
symptom .whatever that shows pregn~cy is not pursuing a perfectly natural course, she should
begin to use the Vegetable Compound at once. It should be taken in small doses two or three
times a day, just enough to produce its strengthening, quieting, and healing effects.
If she finds she has been overdoing, has strained herself in any way, or fears that some nnfor­tunate
result will follow an extra hard day's labor, let her take a few doses of Lydia E. Pinkham's
Vegetable Compound as a certain preventive to future trouble.
The One Universal Cure.-In other words, I repeat what I have already said so many
times, that whenever there is trouble of any ldnd with any part of the female generative organs,
whenever these do not act in a perfectly natural manner, then the I,ydia E. Pinkham Vegetable
Compound is indicated; for it is the one great, nniversal and never-failing cure for all the
affections which fall to the lot of womankind.
Makes Mother and Child Strong.-Many thousands of wives owe the fact that they are
mothers to-day to this grand remedy, and thousands upon thousands of children are happy,
• ~ 2'1
strong and robust because their mothers were wise enough ·to use it. Keep it in tile house. Do
not be a day without it. Have it where you can reach it at any time. Put your confidence in it.
'Twill prove a never-failing friend to you in time of need.
Mothers' Marks.- There is a wide belie~ among women that any strong impression made
'lt :1. certain time during pregnancy will exert a powerful influence in producing some defect or
deformity in the child. The opposite is also held, to the effect that beautiful objects, delightful
nntsi c, and everything elevating and ennobling will have a favorable effect 'upon the body or mind
or the child.
An immense amount of testimony can be produced on both sides of this question. The weight
oi eddence, however, is rather in favor of these so-called "maternal impressions.' In other
words, it seems possible that under very unusual conditions the mother may affect her unborn child
because of some powerful impression made upon the system. .
Yet hundreds of thousands of mothers become frightened and tmdergo the most terrible expe­riences
without having the slightest unfavorable effect upon the child: while other mothers give
birth to deformed children when they have been surrounded with every comfort and have not been
disturbed in any way. No one understands this subject, and but little can truly be said about it.
Hereditary Influences Are Strong. -On the other hand, we all know how strong is
heredity. Therefore it is only acting the part of ordinary wisdom for every pregnant woman to
a\·oid all disagreeable things possible and cultivate everything that is good and true.
Early Training Necessary.- When we come to study the theory of heredity, we see that
it is impossible for any mother to completely change her course of life simply during pregnancy
and have a corresponding effect upon her child. To produce the best results on the offspring it is
necessary that the mother should have cultimted her own mind and body through many years of
training.
Were Cured Early in Life.- Lydia E. Pinkham's Vegetable Compound has done untold
good to the present generation. There are hundreds of thousands of children living to-day who are
healthy and happy because years before they were born their mothers, when young girls, took this
grand household medicine. They were restored to health, a great load was lifted, and things again
looked cheerful and bright, and in this condition a happy baby was born into the world. If
you do not understand your ailments write to Mrs. Pinkham, Lynn, Mass. Her advice is free
and always helpful. Such letters are strictly confidential and answered with the help of
women only.
CHAPTER XI.
PROBLEMS IN NURSING.
Diet During Nursing. -Many mothers believe that it is necessary to eat only certain
articles of diet while mu·sing their baby, for fear the child may be given the colic. While this
may be true in certain cases, yet it is the exception. As a rule, mothers may eat nearly everything
dige tiblc without fear of affPcting the baby.
Exceptions. - Sometimes raw fruits or acid substances may change the milk in some way
so that it will disa,OTee with the baby, but as I have said, this is not the rule. Occasionally, .
however, wheJJ. such articles of diet as onions, cauliflower, and cabbage have been eaten, these
~· ill _impart such an odor and taste to the milk that the child will refuse to nurse.
Must Be Guided By Experience. -The only precaution the mother need take is that if
she finds some article of diet disagrees with her. or if s11e knows a certain article always causes
pain or discomfort in the child, then these should be aYoided.
It is true that certain medicines especially pmgatives, may be taken by the mother which
will affect the child very quickly. Here the same rule should be the guide as should always
govern one, namely, no article of diet should be used which is known to disturb the digestion.
Insufficient Supply of Milk.-When a mother knows that the chances of her child's
life are greatly increased if it has its natura: food, she will certainly make unusual efforts to
supply all the food necessary.
28
Mothers are too likely to think tllat an Increase in the quantity ol the milk answers every pur.
pose ; but this is of no use unless the qu&lity is increased as well, The free use of soups and
some malt extracts may increase the quantity, but this dces the child no good. It too much
resembles the example of the milk-man who nses the well-pump to increase his supply of milk.
How Increased.-llowever; the supply of milk can easily be Increased in quantity and
correspondingly improved In quality if the mother will drink freely of cow's milk, and use other
substantial foods at the same time. If the milk is constipating, or rests heavy on the stomach,
;hen a little lime water may be added to It in the proportion of one or two tablespoonfuls to a
glass of milk. Regular exercise In the open air Is also necessary in order that the general health
may be kep~ In the best possible condition.
Anger May Poison Milk.- It Is a fact that if the child nurses after the mother bas had a
severe fright, or has become violently angry, the milk will sometimes act as an Intense poison. In
such cases the mother had better empty the breasts with a breast-pump, and not nurse the
child for ten or twelve hours afterward, substituting some artificially prepared food.
Extra Supply of Milk.- Sometimes the secretion of milk Is so great that even a strong
~hild cannot take it all. This produces a distention of the breasts, causing what is known as
• caked breasts," or " milk cake." This should be promptly attended to, as there Is great danger
of an abscess forming.
To Prevent Caked Breasts.- The way to relieve this condition Is to gently but firmly
rub the breasts wiLh warm sweet-oil, continuing this for fifteen or twenty minutes at. a time.
An occasional use of the breast-pump Is necessary also.
How to Diminish Supply. -When weaning-time comes, the quest.lon arises how the
secretion of milk may be diminisheu. This Is be1<t done by having the mother take as little
liqnid as possible, whether of water, tea, milk, .soup, or anything of this kind. She should
also take a. gentle laxative each day, as a llttle Hunyadi Water, or laxative mlneml water of
a.ny kind.
Then support the breasts by passing a broad band beneath them, and carrying it ovec the
shoulders, compressing the breasts slightly, but not teo greatly.
The breast-pump should be used as soon as any distention becomes painful, and tbe breasts
should be diligently mbbed with warm sweet-oil. If you do not understand your ailments
write to Mrs. Pinkham, Lynn, Mass. Her advice is free and always helt~ful. Such letters are
strictly confidential and answered with the help of women only.
CHAPTER XJI.
TO PREVENT CONVULSIONS AT CHILDBIRTH.
Work of the Kidneys Most Important.- The kidneys ara constantly enga,aed 1.n
removing froru tlte hOtly certain poisonous substances which are lleld In solution In the urine.
lf they should fail to do this work, or If no urine should be secreted for even a rew holll'S, most
serious c:)Jlsequences would follow.
Cause of Convulsions. - When the:;e polson:~ are retained in tbe system to a sufficient
degree they cause convulsions and unconsciousness, and are frequently fatal. The convulsions
which some women have at childbirth are caused by this Imperfect action of the kidneys.
To Tell If Danger Is Present.- An examina.tion of the urine at any time will tell
whether the kidneys are acting well or not, and thus it is possible to determine whether there Is
danger o[ having these convulsions during confinement. Therefore I urge upon all pregnant
women th ~ necessity of having their nrine e:x:amined once ot twice during the course ol preg-­nancy,
and certainly during the i!ighth or ninth month.
" Albumen fn the Urine.- Imperfect actiou of tlte kidneys Is shown by the appearance ol
albumen In the urlne. Any competent physician can easily determine whether this albumen Is In
\he urine or not, and if present be can· t.ake snch prompt measures as to relnedy the evil before
any serious danger occnrs. Of coul'se .l know tbaL bundreda of :thousands of women pall
lllofely through childbirth and have no unfavorable symptom at all; y-l!t 1 also kno-w that now
~ .., ~nd tb.en :. most valuable life is lost when it. might just as well have been spared as not, if these
simple suggestions had been carried out.
It is the teaching of all the best medical authorities in the world that this precaution
should be taken by every expectant mother.
Symptoms of Kidney Trouble. - When the kidneys are not performing their work
properly, the mother may know it, herself. If she finds her feet and ankles swelling at night,
if she has a puffy look under the eyes, and especially if the amount of urine passed in twenty­four
hours is not so great as formerly, then there is probably albumen in the urine. In this case
she should stop eating meat of all kinds, and live largely upon milk, keeping the bowels iil
laxative condition by using Lydia E. Pinkham's Liver Pills, and bathing the skin well once or
twice a day. She should also begin at once the use of Lydia E. Pinkham's Vegetable Com­pound,
resting assured that this will remove the congestion in the kidneys, and will cause a
more free secretion of the urine. _
Self-abuse (Masturbation). -This is a cause of many of the diseases of women, also men.
Small girls learn the practice from larger ones, and through ignorance continue it often w maturity
without knowing that it ls bringing upon them a physical and moral injury.
If mothers instructed their daughters on this subject there would be fewer broken lives.
SYMPTOMS. -The main symptoms are wakefulness, restless nights, headache, indolence, melan­choly,
indisposition tG study, forgetfulness, despondency, weakness in the back and private organs,
no confidence in one's own abilities, a desire for seclusion from society; whites, hysterics, and
inability to ~ook any one in the face. Sometimes the muscles are relaxed, limbs tremble, the skin
\s sallow and dry, with pain in the womb.
REMARKS. Write to Mrs. Pinkham in perfect confidence, and she will tell you
exactly what to do. Delay is dangerous in this matter.
CHAPTER XIII.
DYSPEPSIA, CONSTIPATION, GENERAL DEBILITY, SLEEPLESSNESS.
Dyspepsia, Acute.- Acute dyspepsia is usually caused by some improper diet, as the eating
'>fan unusual article of food or of a larger amount than necessary. Such articles of diet as cucum­'
bers, unripe or overripe fruit, an excessive amount of sweets, rich salads, heavy puddings, etc.,
may so irritate the stomach 'that an acute attack of dyspepsia follows.
Nature Often Cures.- Nature often makes a prompt cure in these cases by causing a sharp
!lttack of vomiting or diarrhrea. If a cure is not made in this way, then we can imitate nature by
giving an emetic, or by taking a laxative, in order to rid the body of the indigestible material as
soon as poBBible.
Treatment.-'- If there is much pain in the stomach, a mustard plaster should be placed
directly over the pit of the stomach, or cloths wnmg out in hot water. For the next day following
the attack the diet should be restricted to milk, or poached eggs on toast, or something of thiE
.kind.
Chronic Dyspepsia.- - ~~ is chronic dyspepsia, however, which is so annoying because of its
p.srsistence, It has been called "The American Disease" because so many people are troubled
\lfith i t
8ymptoms.- Persons suffering from chronic dyspepsia complain of a bad taste in the mouth,
<\ry throat, nausea, and a feeling of great weight in the stomach for an hour or two after each meal.
Frequently there 1s no appetite whatever, or it may be even more ravenous than natural be.
cause of the irritation and in.fiammation in the stomach. When the latter is the case, food does
not satisfy, and it becomes necessary to eat every two or three hours in order to quiet the gnawing
and empty feeling in the stomach. The chronic dyspeptic suffers greatly from nervousness and
depression of spirits; indeed, it seems almost impflssible t.o maintain the usual cheerfulness.
Thought to be the Heart.- Many persons go to their family physician thinking they have
Jlo serious form of heart disease, when the whole trouble is with the stomach, the violent beating f
~'lle hC:art being simply a nervous manifestation caused by the irritable condition of the stomach.
30
Two Diseues Closely Associated. -Chronic dyspepsia is almost inv&rlabiy a.!l.§OCia~
with the diseases of women. Indeed, the two seem almost inseparable, for whenever' you find a
woman complaining of soreness across the lower p&rt of the bowels, irregular menstruation, ovarian
irritation, inflammation of the bladder, leucorrhooa, etc., you will find a confirmed dyspeptic. The
blood is thin and watery, the bowels are constipated, and the whole nervous system seems to bP
upset.
Which Disease Ia the Cause?-The question comes whether the disease in the pel via
causes the difficulty with the stomach, or whether the stomach produces the inflammation in the
uterus and surrounding parts. Probably one is true at one time and another at another time.
The fact is that both conditions need correcting, and there is one remedy which answers perfectly
in each case.
Both Must Be Cured.- The digestion certainly cannot be perfect while there Is this in·
dammation in the pelvic organs ; while the lat.ter can hardly maintain a healthy condition if the
stomach fails to do its work.
Both May Be Cured.-By paying attention to a few rules of diet, and by taking Lydia. E.
Pinkham's Vegetable Compound !or a short time, I believe every case will promptly yield ta
treatment.
Cures Dyspepsia of Men.-Indeed, strange as it may seem, a great many men who have
taken Lydia E. Pinkham's Compound because they have seen its good action on the stomach
m cases of ~ther members of the family have written reporting good results. It certainly has a
most soothing and strengthening pow~r on this organ, while its gently stimulating effect on th&
whole alimentary canal brings about the most desirable changes.
Regular Action of the Bowels.-I would recommend that Lydia E. Pinkham '11 Livei
Pills be taken each night in just sufficient doses to cause a regular actjon of the bowels each day.
Then if Lydia E. Pinkham's Veget.a.ble Compound be taken, it wtll not only allay all .infiarnmation
in the stomach and impart great strength, but it will at the same time remove the soreness and
pain in the pelvic organs.
A Simple but Valuable Aid- All such persons will obtain relief by drinking a cupful of
hot water at least half an hour before breakfaet each morning ; and If the case is very bad, then
the hot water may be repeated before eat.:h meal. The water should be as hot as can be comforta,.
bly taken.
Useful Hints.- I would strongly urge the necessity of thoroughly chewing the food and
eating slowly. If this rule alone were observed there would be far less dyspeptics in the couutry.
Drink should be used spa.ring~y at meal-time, also, for while the body requires a great deal of
liquid during the day, yet this should be taken between meals rat.her than during meals.
The stomach should certainly have time to rest from its work of digesting the food, hence
nothing should be eaten between meals. The habit so many girls have of eating before retiring is
very injru.:ious to the health, and should be corrected at. once. Meals should be taken at regular
intervals and not at any time when most convenient.
Diet for Dyspeptics.- The chronic dyspeptic should use soups sparingly, for, as a rule,
~hey are quite difficult of digestion, while they do not contain much nourishment. Plain mutton
and beef soup without much fat are the least harmful. Sut.:h fish as pickerel, trout, shad, and
,white fish may be used moderately ; while oysters, especially when raw, are easily digeated. · Th~
·best kinds of meat are roasted or broiled beef, lamb chops, and some fowl, as chicken.
Eggs are easily digested, and are exceedingiy vaiuable as an art.icJe of diet for the dyspeptic.
They may be cooked in almost ~ny form except hard-boiled. They are highly n.ourishing, can be
prepared in many delicate ways, and ard, as I have said, a8 valuable an artie:;, of diet as the
dyspeptic can have.
Persons with chronic dyspepsia do not digest vegetables well, as a rule, although such green
vegetables as lettuce, green peas, asparagus, celery, and spinach may be used. Potatoes ofteJ)
ferment tn the stomach, producing ga8es, and should be used sparingly.
Toast is always well borne, but should never be buttered while hot. Bread shonld not be usEd
until it Is at least a. day old. Rolled oats, cra.r.ked wheat, etc., may be taken, although with man:r
Uley cause fermentation. Nearly all cooked fruits are well borne by the stomach, and so are nearl;r
§10 ripe fruits. Puddings made from rice and custard are easily digested.
Milk is valuable at all times, and if the chronic dyspeptic bears it well, this diet alone "'It
I
31
frequently make a. marked cure. If it rests heavy on the stomach, a little lime water may be adde4
to it in the proportion of a. tablespoonful of lime water to a. cupful of milk.
Forbidden Diet.- There are certain articles of diet which the dyspeptic should not use
l!Dder any circumstances. Among such are fried foods of all kinds, pork, liver, veal, rich soups,
turkey, goose, duck, mackerel, lobster, cucumbers, cabbage, turnips, parsnips, string beans, pies
and cakes, cheese and nuts.
Constipation. -As we have already stated, constipation is productive of the most serious
evils. When the lower bowel is distended, pressure is made upon the surrounding blood-vessels,
and thus the circulati011 seriously interfered with.
Causes Inflammation of Uterus. -As a result, there is congestion in the blood-vessels of
the ovaries and uterus, and inflammation of these organs is likely to follow with its long train of
~~~ .
Constipation also seriously interferes with the general health, producing nausea., indigestion,
headache, backache, nervousness, general debility, etc.
Daily Movements Necessary.- Nature intended that the alimentary canal should be re­li13ved
of its contents at least once every twenty-four hours, and if this is not done, then certain
poisons are absorbed into the blood which produce the most undesirable effects.
To Cure Constipation. - For constipation I strongly recommend Lydia E. Pinkham'a
Liver Pills. I know they give the most prompt and satisfactory relief. I have received letters
from hundreds of women who have been cured of the most distressing ailments of the uterus and
bladder simply by using these Liver Pills, and all because constipation was cured and in this way
the cause of the suffering removed.
Diarrhrea.- Diarrhrea, as a rule, is an effort of nature to get rid of some offensive material.
While this may be the first reason for its existence, yet if it is allowed to go on, it produces sucb.
an irritation in the bowels that serious results may easily follow.
Treatment.-If the person is conscious of having eaten something indigestible, as unripe or
overripe fruit, then it is best to aid nature by taking some gentle laxative, as a laxative dose of
Lydia E. Pinkham's Liver Pills, thw hastening the removal of the indigestible substance. If,
however, there have been a number of movements of the bowels, until the offending material 18
probably all removed, then the following plan is all that will be necessary to make a cure :
Let the person rest at full length upon a couch or bed, remaining as quiet as possible. 'For the
diet nothing should be taken but hot milk. A glass of hot milk can be slowly sipped once every
three hours, and nothing else whatever should be taken into the stomach for a day, at least, or
until the diarrhrea is checked.
If the pain is quite severe in the stomach or bowels, then a mustard plaster may be placed
over the most painful part, or cloths wrung from hot water ; or a poultice of linseed meal or slip~
pery elm may be applied. I have seen the good results of this treatment of "rest and hot milk"
in so many cases, and it is so exceedingly simple, that I earnestly recommend its trial.
General DP.bility, Exhaustion, Amemia.- Many women go about suffering fr6m great
debility, being hara.Jy able to drag themselves through the day. When night comes they are too
tired to sleep, and when morning comes it seems they are more tired than they were at night. All
parts of the body partake of this general weakness.
There are great discomfort and suffering through the lower part of the body, difficulty in passing
the urine, constipation of the bowels, leucorrhrea, and all other affections which naturally come
from an impoverished condition of the blood.
May Be Promptly Cured.-To all women who are suffering from this general debility,
exhaustion, and nervous prostration I earnestly recommend Lydia E. Pinkham's Blood Purifier.
If the innammation in the uterus and surrounding organs is quite marked at the same time, theL
the Btood Purifier may be taken before meals and the Vegetable Compound after. If the femalo
generative orgaus are not much involved, then the B~ood Pw·ifier may be used alone.
A Grand Medicine. -This grand medicine has done great good, and I am confident it will
build up the system, purify the blood, and greatly improve the general health.
Persons suffering from general debility of this kind do not prosper well on a milk diet alone.
They need more hearty food, such as rare beefsteak, rare roast beef, lamb chops, and eggs.
Sleeplessness. -Sleeplessness is frequently the result of a too liberal use of tea or coffee.
~any persons cannot take a cup of coffee at any time during the evening without lying awa~
32
many hours to pay for it. It is a strong stimulant to those who have a sensitive nervous syltem,
and should be used only sparingly at all times and never after the midday meal.
Strong tea acts in this way upon a great many, and if any of my readers are troubled with
sleeplessness, and yet at the same time use tea and coffee freely, I would suggest that they try.
first of all, to do without these drinks and note the effect.
Tieatment.-A warm (not hot) foot-bath taken just before retiring will often cause a good
night's rest, as it draws the blood from the head, makes the circulation more evenly distributed,
and in this way induces sleep. Frequently a baby or young child may be made to sleep all through
the night if a warm bath be given just before retiring.
When the sleeplessness is due to nerve e:xhaustion, as is frequently the case, the very best t l
results will follow the use of Lydia E. Pinkham's Vegetable Compound, because of its great nerve
tonic properties.
A Hard Cold.- Whenever any one has taken a hard cold, it can often be speedily and
completely broken up in the following manner : 'rake a hot foot-bath for at least half an hour.
While the feet are still in the hot water throw a blanket completely about the limbs and body, in •
order to retain all the heat possible. At the same time drink one or two cupfuls of hot lemonade,
or hot ginger tea.. Then retire to bed, having the bed previously well warmed, if during the winter-time.
Put on plenty of covering, keeping a. hot flat-iron or a. hot water-bottle at tho feet, a.nd in
every way try to induce free perspiration.
After an hour or two, gradually remove the extra clothing. Be carelnl about going out the
next morning, for the body will be especially susceptible to the cold. In t.bis wa.y it is possible to
break up a. hard cold at once. If there is any tendency to cough, or any tightness or soreness
in the chest, place a. mustard plaster directly over the chest, and allow it to remain on until the
skin is quite red.
Sore Throat. -An old-fashioned remedy for sore throat, and a. very good one, too, is to
bind on each side of the throat a. piece of salt pork. The surface of the pork may be s!ightly
covered with black pepper, in order to increase its drawing power. This is allowed to remain on
a11 night, but should be taken off in the morning. During the day a flannel is worn about thl!l
neck.
;... gargle for sore throat ma.y be m~e by dissolving half a teaspoonful of chlorate of potash
in a cupful of warm water. G-argle the throat with this every hour or two during the day, but do
not swallow the mixture. After this has been used for a day or two, then a solution may be made
by adding a teaspoonful of pulverized alum to a. cupful of warm water; this is applied to the
inflamed sides of the throat by means of a swab. Gargling the throat with a solution of ordinary
extract of witch hazel, one p.-..rt, and water two parts, also very useful.
Croup. -As a rule, croup may be quickly cureu by the use of either hot or cold water.
Immediately the child begins to breathe hard and cough with a. dry, hollow, barking cough, wring
out a towel from cold water and apply around the tl!roat, covering this with a dry towel. The
wet towel should be changE'd in a few minutes, just as soon aa it becomes .a little warm. Often
before the secoud cloth 1s rE'moved the spasm will be broken, a.nd the danger passed. Cool water
will not answer: it must be cold. It the spasm does not break, and the brcc.thing docs not
become easy within fifteen or twenty minutes, then change to hot water. Wring out the cloth
from water as hot as can be borne and apply about the neck, changing m a few moment.s, and
so on.
How to Lose Flesh.- I have often been asked whether it were poss1ble to have the
fiesb reduced without in any way affecting the general health. If the person be only slightly
heavier thanusua.l, and 1s in the best of health, it certainly seems wrong to experiment in any
wa.y to reauce the weight, especially when this 1s done only to better follow the dictates of
fashion.
If, however, the excess of flesh is becoming so great as to be uncomfortable, to interfere with
the regular work, or to cause weak action of the heart, etc., then something should be done.
There are a few rules which a person n::ay follow to advantage in sueh cases, although the
change should be made gradually.
So long a.s a person continues to gain in flesh, It Is positive evidence that more food is being
taken than necessary. Therefore the first rule is that the quantit7 of food should be gradually
diminishQd.
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The second rule is that exercise should be taken regularly. This will keep up the general
health, while it will cause the fat to be IJlOre evenly distributed over the body. Another rule is to
keep th~ bowels well open, so that there may be at least two move