Born: May 17, 1801 (Uppsala, Uppland)
Biography:
Maria Lovisa Åhrberg, or Årberg, was a pioneering Swedish surgeon and doctor, known for her groundbreaking work in a time when women were not permitted to study medicine at a university. Born on May 17, 1801, in Uppsala, Uppland, Lovisa was the daughter of Erik Årberg, a caretaker at Uppsala University, and Britta Maria Upgren, who was known for her skills in folk medicine and nursing.
During her childhood, Lovisa often accompanied her mother on visits to hospitals and the houses of sick people, where she observed medical treatments. Although she never formally attended any medical school, she gained substantial knowledge in medicine through informal education and observation.
In her adult years, Lovisa moved to Stockholm and worked as a domestic maid for a middle-class family. However, she also dedicated her spare time to helping those in need with injuries and illnesses. As word spread about her successful treatments, she began to attract more clients from around Stockholm. Initially, her patients were primarily from the lower class, but as her reputation grew, wealthier individuals started seeking her services and paid handsomely for her expertise.
Around 1840, Lovisa was able to support herself solely through her medical practice. Although it was not unusual for women in the countryside to practice medicine under the designation of cunning folk, Lovisa Åhrberg’s practice as a female doctor in the city was considered more controversial.
Despite her lack of formal training and medical degree, Lovisa Åhrberg gained a reputation as a skilled and popular medical practitioner. However, she faced criticism for practicing without a license, as women were not allowed to study medicine at universities until 1870. In contrast to her contemporary Kisamor, who was also a popular female medical practitioner with a long tradition of folk healing, Lovisa had no formal background in medicine.
Nevertheless, Lovisa Åhrberg’s impact on Swedish society cannot be understated. She defied societal norms and paved the way for future women in medicine. Her successful career as a surgeon and her dedication to healing undoubtedly inspired many women to pursue similar paths in the field of healthcare.