Uncovering the myriad of strange contraceptive methods in ancient times

The earliest condom: sheep intestines. Ancient people also made condoms from sheep intestines, which were obviously somewhat close to modern condoms. The oldest known condom was made from a piece of pig intestine, with one end sewn tightly with silk thread and the other end open to tighten to prevent it from slipping. The relevant user manual suggests that this type of condom is difficult to use immediately when needed because the condom must be soaked in warm milk overnight before use.

Pomegranate seed contraceptive method

The oldest contraceptive method: pomegranate seed method. The world's oldest contraceptive method may have been invented and used by the ancient Egyptians 4,000 years ago. It is a cone-shaped object made of pomegranate seeds and wax. Pomegranate seeds contain natural estrogen, which can inhibit ovulation just like birth control pills. Although it is not as effective as the current pills, it can indeed inhibit pregnancy. In addition to the method of suppressing ovulation, the use of the "barrier method" also has a long history.

Aristotle recommended contraception: the first spermicide. The ancient Greek philosopher Aristotle (384-322 BC) is considered the first person to propose the use of natural chemicals such as cedar oil, lead ointment or frankincense oil as spermicides.

Elephant and crocodile feces as medicine. The ancient Egyptians more than 3,000 years ago were able to create outstanding works such as pyramids and mummies, so it is not surprising that they found a way to control birth. It is said that the ancient Egyptians believed that animals such as crocodiles and elephants had mysterious powers, so their feces were also used in contraceptive prescriptions. In fact, because these animal feces are highly acidic, they do have a certain spermicidal effect. However, the strong smell of animal feces would obviously affect the "sexual interest" of ancient couples.

Gold, silver and ivory contraception Using expensive materials such as gold, silver and ivory for contraception may sound good, but it is actually very cruel. Thousands of years ago, people made "uterine sheaths" based on the shape of the female uterus. Rich families could use materials such as gold, silver or ivory to make them, and then wrap them with oil paper or beeswax. Obviously, these things sound very scary, and this contraceptive tool was later called "an instrument for torturing women." Sometimes, these things can even cause toxic shock in women, cause all kinds of unpleasant odors from the body, and even cause infections, but they are not very effective in preventing pregnancy.

The ancient Greeks believed that lead-containing iron water could also be used as a contraceptive. Although we don't know who invented this method, it is a fact that lead is contained in the iron water. During World War I, women who worked in lead-producing factories suffered abnormally high rates of infertility. Scientific research has found that drinking hot metal can cause neurological diseases, kidney failure, coma, and even death. Its function seems to be similar to that of mercury.