HYSTERICAL APNEA IN THE WORK OF GALEN (CA 129 – 199 AD): GENDER EQUITY IN THE HISTORY OF PSYCHOSOMATIC MEDICINE

Abstract

The aim: To presents clinical, epidemiological and pathophysiological aspects of the disease described by Galenos of Pergamon during the 2nd century AD and discusses its implications on contemporary discourse on gender equity and gender – based discrimination. Materials and methods: The authors searched original medical texts written in Greek language and attributed to Galenos for records related to hysterical apnea. Conclusions: Galen attempted to interpret hysterical apnea by combining clinical and epidemiological observations with anatomical and functional lesions. His approach denounced the anatomically unsound notion of the wandering womb and availed the knowledge of his period in a rational manner. Investigating gender – related aspects of contemporary psychosomatic conditions related to fertility and pregnancy can help address gender – based discrimination in modern societies.