So… yep.

    • Squeak@lemmy.world
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      5 months ago

      That wiki entry literally says that it was designed to help during childbirth…

      “for symphysiotomy and excision of diseased bone, respectively.”

      Follow the link for symphysiotomy and it says “Symphysiotomy is a surgical procedure in which the cartilage of the pubic symphysis is divided to widen the pelvis allowing childbirth when there is a mechanical problem (obstructed labour).”

    • bitwaba@lemmy.world
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      5 months ago

      Yeah, this a common misconception (no pun intended?). The average life expectance was 40 because so many children died during childhood. If you lived to 20, you likely lived til you were 70.