Joseph Späth

Who was Joseph Späth?

Joseph Späth was professor of obstetrics in Vienna, and from 1873 until 1886 he was director of the second obstetrical clinic at the Vienna General Hospital.

Following graduation at the University of Vienna in 1849, he became an assistant to Johann Baptist Chiari. Afterwards he worked at the maternity clinic for midwives until 1853. In 1861 he was appointed professor of obstetrics in Vienna, and in 1873 became director of the second obstetrical-gynecological clinic.

Ignaz Semmelweis regarded him as a principal opponent. By 1864, however, he had adopted Semmelweis's view, and observed that virtually all obstetricians were convinced that Semmelweis was correct, although few admitted it openly.