31 January 1747 The first venereal diseases clinic opened at London Lock Hospita

On 31 January 1747, London saw the opening of its first dedicated venereal disease clinic, marking a significant moment in medical history. Founded by William Bromfeild, a skilled and respected surgeon, the institution was established as part of the Lock Hospital, located near Hyde Park Corner. This hospital became a pioneering center for the treatment of syphilis and other sexually transmitted infections, offering care to those suffering from diseases that were both physically devastating and socially stigmatized.

The century of veneral diseases

In the 18th century, venereal diseases were rampant across Europe, particularly in large cities like London, where dense populations and poor sanitation contributed to their rapid spread. These infections affected people from all walks of life, but certain groups—such as soldiers, sailors, and sex workers—were especially vulnerable due to their transient lifestyles and frequent contact with multiple partners. However, the diseases did not discriminate by class or social standing, as even members of the aristocracy and the royal court were known to suffer from them.

At the time, there was little understanding of how these diseases were transmitted or how to effectively treat them. Many physicians believed venereal infections were caused by an imbalance of bodily fluids or exposure to “bad air,” leading to misguided and often dangerous treatment methods. One of the most common treatments was the use of mercury, administered through ointments, pills, or even vapors. While mercury sometimes alleviated symptoms temporarily, it was highly toxic, leading to severe side effects such as neurological damage, kidney failure, and even death. Despite these dangers, it remained the primary method of treatment for syphilis well into the 19th century. In many cases, patients who sought treatment ended up suffering more from the cure than the disease itself.

Dr Bromfeild opens his clinic

Recognizing the urgent need for specialized care, Bromfeild and his associates established the Lock Hospital to provide treatment to the poor and those who had nowhere else to turn. The name “Lock” came from medieval leper hospitals, which were also called “lock hospitals” because they isolated contagious patients. This tradition continued with the Lock Hospital, which sought to manage the spread of venereal diseases in a city where these infections were widespread.