Added: 02/17/2006 |
Birth Control Methods - Numerous and Often EffectiveThe history of birth control can be said to draw its origin in about 3000 B.C. The archeologists working in Egypt discovered ancient drawings that featured men who were wearing certain articles of clothing that resembled condoms in their appearance and probably functionality. In fact, scientists are still uncertain as for what kind of material was used for creating these prototypes of condoms (there is a possibility that it was specially treated hide of animals).
Another area of uncertainty is the functionality of these articles. It can not be stated that they were worn while having sex; there is also a chance that they were articles of some peculiar ceremonial garment.
In about 1850 B.C. the range of birth control methods was added to due to the appearance of the "pessary". It is believed to be the first contraceptive for women. The newly introduced practice was that of placing certain objects or concoctions into the vagina they were meant to block the entrance for the sperm or kill them. The concoctions that were thought to be efficient if used in this quality were the following: honey, crocodile dung, sodium carbonate.
The next event to be spoken about in terms of history of birth control methods would be the appearance of condoms. The oldest of them (dated at 1640) were found near Dudley castle, which is in Birmingham (England). However, an opinion has been voiced that at that time condoms were widely used not so much as one of efficient birth control methods, but rather in order to eliminate the risk of contracting sexually transmitted diseases that were at that time growing rampant.
These prototypes of modern condoms were normally made of animal and fish intestines, but there were also condoms that were made of linen and tied on with a ribbon. The use of the latter was generally associated with the name of Giacomo Casanova. He is a well-renowned for his success in the amorous affairs and he was actually the first to admit the usage of condoms for the sake of contraception.
Birth control methods were naturally growing in number and some people-generated and so called "home made" birth control methods were next to ridiculous and based on no specific medicinal of anatomic facts. Speaking about generally approved birth control methods it is necessary to mention the rubber condoms that many people thought a great boon. The appearance of vulcanized rubber has spearheaded the foundation for the mass production of rubber condoms which began in about 1844.
This event actually triggered the flourishing of the industry of contraception. Birth control methods and devices have become so numerous that it was getting not so easy to orient in the variety of methods available. Apart from rubbers the usage of cervical caps, vaginal sponges and douching syringes was becoming very widely spread. Skipping a few decades it should be useful to give a quick overview of the modern birth control methods.
Among the most widely used are the pill and the application of birth control implant. Some prefer to be on the safe side and practice non-vaginal sex.
Remember, the best birth control method may just be "common sense".
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