Judith Esser-Mittag
Judith Esser-Mittag (12 November 1921 – 1 May 2020), commonly known as Judith Esser, was a German gynecologist. Her extensive studies of the female anatomy helped her to create an environmentally friendly tampon with no applicator. Judith Esser-Mittag dedicated her career to women’s health. She advocated for change and prevention in the field by leading multiple industry medical groups. She was vital to development in the industry from revolutionizing tampon application to her published works. She is most commonly known for the o.b. Tampon which doesn't require an applicator. Dr. Esser- Mittag studied at University of Cologne and University of Bonn. At State’s Women’s Clinic in Wuppertal, she completed her clinicals. In 1945, she gained her doctorate and subsequently her medical license. She dedicated her career to gynecology, obstetrics, and meeting women’s health needs. In 1952, she founded the medical society for women’s health care. In 1978, she participated in founding the West German Working Group for Pediatric and Adolescent Gynecology. These groups allowed for the sharing of ideas among renowned medical professionals. She developed several training programs and published related textbooks. In 1999, she was awarded the Dobszay Medal by the Pediatric Gynecology Section of the Hungarian Society for Obstetrics and Gynecology.