What was a common occupation for women during the middle ages?

During the Middle Ages, one of the most common occupations for women was that of a midwife. Midwives played a crucial role in society, primarily responsible for assisting in childbirth and providing care to women during pregnancy. This role was particularly significant because medical knowledge was limited at the time, and midwives often relied on traditional practices and herbal remedies to help deliver babies and ensure the health of mothers and newborns. As female practitioners, they were generally more accessible to the community than male physicians.

In contrast, while there were female merchants, teachers, and a rare few women serving as priests, these roles were not as widespread or universally accepted due to societal norms and restrictions on women's participation in these fields during that era. The role of the midwife stands out as an integral part of women's responsibilities and the health care system of the time, making it the most common occupation among women during the Middle Ages.