The History and Evolution of Birth Control

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(Photo : Reproductive Health Supplies Coalition on Unsplash)

Birth control was originally conceived long ago, in the form of a medicinal combination consisting of a tampon made from wool soaked in ground thorn tree, dates, and honey. This practice dates back to 1552 BC, originally found on an ancient prescription papyrus sheet.

So much has changed since then. Birth control has evolved with the currents of history. Modern birth control is more effective as a result of the scientific advances made around women's health. While there are still side effects, the history and evolution of birth control is complex and fascinating.

The Beginning of Birth Control

Since the days before Christ, birth control is no longer wholly holistic but medicinal as well. Evidence of birth control has been found in Ancient Egypt, Greece, and Rome. The silphium plant, which was mostly cultivated in modern-day Libya, was utilized as a form of herbal birth control. Over-cultivation led to the extinction of the plant. Furthermore, acacia gum was used as a form of birth control while extended breastfeeding was an early tactic to prevent conception. The science of family planning, hormones, and the conception of a child has changed dramatically since then.

First Modern Birth Control Methods

Modern birth control primarily began with contraceptives. Condoms, intravenous devices, and other safe birth control devices were only made available to the public in the 20th century. Intravenous devices came first in the early 1900s. They were originally made from silkworm intestines. Over time, new forms of birth control were invented and made available to the public.

The term "birth control" was popularized in 1914, but throughout the 1920s, the United States banned information about contraception, reproductive health, and birth control methods. Between the 1920s to the 1950s and beyond, birth control became popularized in the form of condoms, and then, eventually, birth control pills.

The Advent of Birth Control Pills

The first birth control pills weren't invented until the 1950s by Gregory Pincus and John Rock at the Planned Parenthood Association of America, which is still at the forefront of reproductive health. Despite the early advent of birth control, the pill did not become widely available until the 1960s. The Supreme Court case Griswold vs. Connecticut overturned the contraceptive ban for married couples in the middle of the decade, and it was overturned for non-married people in 1972.

The restrictions on birth control were lifted and advances in the science of reproductive health and family planning led to the accessibility of various safe and effective birth control methods. Beyond the standard birth control pill, there are plenty of modern methods that can be used.

Contemporary Birth Control

Today, the birth control pill is not just widely available, but there are also modern intrauterine devices, patches, vaginal rings, and other emergency contraceptive options. You are probably wondering, what is a birth control ring? This form of birth control is a soft plastic ring inserted into the vagina to prevent pregnancy. It also delivers the hormones estrogen and progestin to the body, which makes it work just as well as the pill.

There is also emergency contraception, otherwise known as the morning-after pill or Plan B. It is designed to be taken soon after unprotected sex to prevent conception. Finally, implants in the arm can serve as an effective form of birth control for months and years at a time. Birth control has come a long way since the days of wool tampons soaked in thorn tree sap and honey, and its impact is massive.

The Impact of Birth Control

The impact of modern birth control should not be understated. It has provided the ability for families to plan when they will have a child. It offers a way to keep control of our ever-growing human population on Earth. It has had a significant social and political impact. With so many ways to prevent a pregnancy, there is more agency and control over health, sex, and conception.

Birth control has a long history, and it has evolved considerably over the centuries. Human life has changed since Ancient Egypt, Greece, and Rome, but now modern science offers a range of birth control methods and solutions. It is a significant field of medicine and reproductive health has changed human lives forever.

People have been finding ways to prevent pregnancy for thousands of years. Birth control has become safer and more effective. Modern birth control has advanced women's economic standing because they can avoid unwanted pregnancy and take ownership of their future plans. Birth control is here to stay.