Ernst Grafenberg

Ernst Grafenberg

German-American physician, gynecologist and sexologist
Date of Birth: 26.09.1881
Country: Germany

Content:
  1. Early Life and Education
  2. Medical Career
  3. Research and Innovations
  4. Arrest and Imprisonment
  5. Liberation and Emigration
  6. Discovery of the G-Spot
  7. Lasting Legacy

Early Life and Education

Ernst Gräfenberg (1881-1957) was born into a Jewish family in Adelebsen, Germany. He pursued medical studies at the Universities of Göttingen and Munich, graduating in 1905.

Medical Career

Initially, Gräfenberg specialized in ophthalmology at the University of Würzburg. However, he transitioned to obstetrics and gynecology at the University of Kiel. By 1920, he had established a successful gynecological practice in Berlin, where he became the chief physician of a gynecological ward in the Britz district.

Research and Innovations

Gräfenberg made several notable contributions to gynecology. He developed the first pregnancy test and invented the Gräfenberg Ring, an early form of intrauterine contraceptive device. His ring was widely used until the early 1960s.

Arrest and Imprisonment

In 1937, Gräfenberg was arrested by the Nazi regime on the pretext of attempting to smuggle a valuable stamp collection out of the country. Despite his Jewish heritage, he had initially believed that his medical expertise would protect him.

Liberation and Emigration

With the assistance of Margaret Sanger, an American advocate for birth control, Gräfenberg was released in 1940 and allowed to immigrate to the United States. He settled in New York City at the age of 60, where he reestablished his medical practice.

Discovery of the G-Spot

Through his work with female patients, Gräfenberg made a groundbreaking discovery. In the 1950s, he identified a highly sensitive area in the anterior wall of the vagina, which he called the Grafenberg Spot. This discovery, later shortened to the "G-spot," has since become a cornerstone of sexology.

Lasting Legacy

Gräfenberg retired from practice in 1953 due to Parkinson's disease. He passed away in New York City on October 28, 1957. His contributions to gynecology, including the discovery of the G-spot, have left an enduring mark on the field and continue to influence medical practice today.

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