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)
I am convinced that my theory is correct, and time will prove me right.
The hands that deliver life should not also deliver death.
It is a tragic irony that those who are dedicated to healing are inadvertently causing harm.
I have seen the light, and I cannot unsee it.
The statistics do not lie. The evidence is undeniable.
To deny the truth is to condemn more women to their deaths.
My only crime is that I have shown the truth to those who do not wish to see it.
The future of medicine depends on our willingness to question established practices.
I have been called a madman, but I am merely a man who has seen what others refuse to see.
The lives of mothers are precious. We must do everything in our power to protect them.
I stand before you today not as a revolutionary, but as a physician seeking to save lives.
The path to truth is often paved with resistance and ridicule.
I have dedicated my life to this cause, and I will not abandon it.
The evidence is clear, yet the minds remain closed.
My conscience compels me to speak out, even if it means facing the wrath of my peers.
The suffering of these women is a burden on my soul.
Let us put aside our pride and embrace the truth for the sake of our patients.
The future generations will judge us by our actions today.
I have no personal gain from this discovery, only the desire to alleviate suffering.
The simple act of washing hands can save a life. It is a miracle within our grasp.
Contemporaries of Ignaz Semmelweis
Other Medicines born within 50 years of Ignaz Semmelweis (1818–1865).