Ciąża w opiniach mieszkańców Rzeczypospolitej Obojga Narodów w XVIII wieku
Pregnancy in the opinion of the population of Polish-Lithuanian Commonwealth in the 18th century

Summary/Abstract: Nowadays, we can observe that already from the conception of the child many mothers, but also many people around them, treat the “blessed state” (Polish expression for “a delicate state”) as exceptional. In the 18th century, pregnancy was recognized and regarded as a state requiring special attention. This was caused, among others, by family policy, which required a descendant. The moralists and theoreticians of that time propagated the view that the only proper way of life for a woman was to get married and give birth to a child. However, before the wife became the mother, some time passed. Firstly, problems with conception were frequent because of previous illnesses of many types, young age or simply infertility. Attempts to cure the latter included employing an array of different methods, consulting appropriate specialists, undertaking pilgrimages and praying for intercession of the saints. Secondly and most importantly, before the labor, the fair sex had to experience the difficult period of pregnancy. Surely, it was and still is a special time in woman’s life, during which she should take particular care both of herself and of the child. In this hard period of their life, noblewomen had to observe proper diet, as well as dress and behave accordingly to their state. Some of the moralists were of the opinion that pregnant ladies could go out, travel and take part in physical activities, while the others advised them to refrain from such behavior, be careful and rest much. Women in the “blessed state” certainly had the support of friends and family. Everyone came to their aid and offered advice, sending letters with inquiries about their health. The issue of pregnancy was raised often and, usually, similar opinions were repeated.

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