Method of contraception

The barrier method of birth control works by preventing sperm from reaching the egg. The idea of ​​inserting something into the vagina to prevent pregnancy is not new. Such devices are called pessaries and they are used by ancient Egyptians.

The pessary was mentioned as early as 1850 BC. In Petri Papyrus. The formula is then a mixture of crocodile dung and honey, placed in the vagina before sexual intercourse.

"Interestingly, this mixture not only acts as a barrier to sperm, but also has a wide range of spermicidal effects. If there is no convenient crocodile, elephant feces can be used," said Dr. Niels Lauersen, a US diplomat. Obstetrics and Gynecology and Steven Whitney at "This is your body: a woman's gynecological guide."

Various pessary formulas are used throughout the world. Elephant dung and honey are the preferred combination of India and Africa. In Persian in the 10th century, the pessary was made of mixed rock salt and oily materials.

However, the most popular pessary was invented by the London chemist Walter Lendl, who lived in the late 19th century. Seeing how many people have the burden of having too many children, Rendell developed a pessary containing quinine and distributed it to customers in the drug store for free.

"The results of this new pessary exceeded his expectations. The request was recorded so fast that the pessary went on sale in 1886. By the turn of the century, the product was a bestseller all over the world. In fact, until In the 20th century, Quinine was the only known spermicide that could be used safely, "Lauersen and Whitney added.

With the popularity of pessaries, new formulations have been developed using less irritating substances. Today's contraceptive methods include diaphragms, vaginal sponges, condoms, and cervical caps. These are often used with chemical barriers such as creams, jellies, foams and suppositories. We check them one by one.

DIAPHRAGM and CERVICAL CAP
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The diaphragm is a molded rubber cap that blocks sperm when it covers the cervix and the back of the vagina. Must be inserted for each sexual activity and retained for the next six to eight hours.

The smaller version of the diaphragm is a cervical cap that covers only the cervix but works in the same way. However, unlike the diaphragm, the device must be installed by a doctor. Women may find it difficult to do the same thing because the hat must go deep into the vagina.

The first true diaphragm was created by the fruit of the pomegranate tree of Amida's Aetius in the 6th century. After removing the seeds and flesh of the fruit, Aetius told the woman to insert the hollow end into the vagina before sexual intercourse.

In 1883, the German doctor Dr. Frederick Wilde described how the rubber cap blocked sperm, but another German Dr. Wilhelm Mensinga promoted this method. [Next: The shortcomings of the diaphragm.]

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Orignal From: Method of contraception