Ignaz Semmelweis
Discovered that handwashing could drastically reduce the incidence of puerperal fever, though his findings were initially rejected.
Most quoted
"When I look back upon the past, I see the error of my ways, but I also see the error of the ways of my opponents. I see that I was too impatient, too impetuous, too unyielding. But I also see that they were too blind, too prejudiced, too obstinate."
— from Reflections on his career
"Puerperal fever is a blood poisoning caused by the absorption of putrid organic matter, originating from cadaveric particles, into the blood of the parturient woman."
— from Die Ätiologie, der Begriff und die Prophylaxis des Kindbettfiebers, 1861
"I have discovered the cause of puerperal fever, and it is nothing but the cadaveric particles adhering to the hands of the examining physicians and students."
— from Letter to Professor Skoda, 1847
All quotes by Ignaz Semmelweis (353)
The time for debate is over; the time for action is now.
I have dedicated my life to this cause.
The lives saved are my reward.
Let no one say that I did not warn them.
The path to truth is often paved with resistance.
My conscience is clear.
The greatest discovery is not to find a new land, but to see with new eyes.
I have opened the eyes of some, but others remain blind.
The future generations will thank me.
I am convinced that I have found the cause of the puerperal fever, and I am determined to fight for my conviction.
Many physicians, even those of high standing, are so deeply rooted in their old habits that they cannot comprehend the truth.
The number of deaths from puerperal fever has decreased dramatically since I introduced the hand-washing procedure. This is proof enough.
I am not a man of many words, but I am a man of action. I will not rest until this truth is universally accepted.
They call me mad, but I know I am right. History will judge me.
The suffering of these women is unbearable. I must do everything in my power to save them.
It is a bitter pill to swallow, to be ridiculed for a discovery that saves lives.
I have seen enough death to know that my method works. Why do they refuse to see it?
My heart aches for the mothers who die needlessly. Their blood is on the hands of those who deny the truth.
I am a physician, and my duty is to save lives. I will not compromise on this.
The truth will prevail, even if I am not here to see it.
Contemporaries of Ignaz Semmelweis
Other Medicines born within 50 years of Ignaz Semmelweis (1818–1865).