Fallen Woman: a phrase that once described a woman or a girl who had lost her innocence or fallen from the grace of God.
Two hundred and fifty years ago asylums were established in Europe
whose purpose was to reform prostitutes and send them back into society.
In Ireland the first was opened in 1765 and became known as the
Magdalene Laundry, named after Mary Magdalene, once considered a
converted prostitute who was rewarded by Jesus with forgiveness and
love.
http://www.irishcentral.com/culture/entertainment/Giving-voice-to-the-Magdalene-women.html
http://www.irishcentral.com/culture/entertainment/Giving-voice-to-the-Magdalene-women.html