U.S. National Institutes of Health

Helen Octavia Dickens, MD — obstetrics and gynecology

Courtesy National Library of Medicine

The daughter of a former slave, Dr. Helen Dickens (1909–2001) was the first African American woman admitted to the American College of Surgeons, a prestigious professional organization. She provided obstetrical and gynecological services and sex education to women living in poverty throughout her lengthy and distinguished career.

Read more about Dr. Helen Octavia Dickens.

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