Mary Wood-Allen

From WikiMD's Food, Medicine & Wellness Encyclopedia

Mary Wood-Allen (1841–1908) was an American physician, author, and social reformer. She was a pioneer in the field of sex education, advocating for the teaching of sexual hygiene and morality to young people. She was also a prominent member of the Woman's Christian Temperance Union (WCTU), serving as its National Superintendent of Purity.

Early life and education[edit | edit source]

Wood-Allen was born in Michigan in 1841. She pursued her education at the University of Michigan, where she earned her medical degree. This was a significant achievement, as few women were admitted to medical schools at the time.

Career[edit | edit source]

After graduating, Wood-Allen established a private medical practice. She also began writing books and pamphlets on sexual education, which were considered groundbreaking for their time. Her most famous work, "What a Young Woman Ought to Know", was published in 1897 and was widely read and translated into several languages.

In addition to her medical practice and writing, Wood-Allen was actively involved in the WCTU. She served as the organization's National Superintendent of Purity, advocating for moral purity and the prohibition of alcohol.

Legacy[edit | edit source]

Wood-Allen's work in sexual education and social reform had a lasting impact. Her books and teachings helped to shape the field of sex education and influenced the development of sexual hygiene and morality education in schools.

File:Mary Wood-Allen.jpg
Mary Wood-Allen

See also[edit | edit source]

References[edit | edit source]



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Contributors: Prab R. Tumpati, MD