Condoms have been around for centuries in one form or another. Cave drawings found in French cave paintings from sometime around 10000-13000 BC and an ancient Egyptian hieroglyphic from around 1000 BC are some of the oldest known records of condoms. And everything between then and now is a colorful and controversial history
Condoms through history
History shows that people were making condoms out of many different items in their attempts to have safer sex. Animal intestines, linens, tortoise shells, silk, fish bladders, and many other unique, some quite gross, things were used to make condoms. The 1700s saw the beginnings of widespread sale of contraceptives with the large number of European slaughterhouses. The discarded organs were repurposed into sheaths for the prevention of pregnancy. These “skins,” as they were called, became the most affordable and accessible form of contraception at the time. Archaeologists have even found animal-membrane condoms dating back to the mid 1600s.
Condoms and Casanova
Casanova is regaled to be the greatest lover of all time. It may be his own claim to fame, but one thing he did do for sure was to help to remove the stigma of condoms during the late 1700s. Yes, even then there was a stigma attached to condoms. Casanova kept detailed notes about his escapades and the fact that he used condoms to help prevent getting any diseases, specifically syphilis. He was definitely ahead of his time with this one!
The Rubber Revolution
The big turning point in the access to and production of condoms came in the mid 1800s. Charles Goodyear figured out a method of rubber vulcanization that single-handedly kick-started modern latex technologies. By 1870, condoms were available almost anywhere in the US you could buy day to day staples. But still condoms were mainly thought to be for protection against unwanted pregnancy and not as much for disease prevention. That changed with World War I.
Condoms and STI Prevention During the World Wars
During WWI gonorrhea and syphilis were both rampant amongst the troops. Condoms were handed out to many of the troops in Europe but were not standard issue for North Americans. The fight against STIs became more scientific as the number (and cost) of infections rose. By WWII condoms were regular military issue so that “the boys” didn’t bring home something unexpected. The messaging on the condom tins and foils were focused on fighting disease no differently than fighting the war.
Condom Today
Condoms have come a long way throughout the history of condoms. Today, they are available in many different sizes, colours, flavours, shapes, and materials. Some glow in the dark, some have different tip designs, and others include unique printed or decorative styles. Condoms can also be made from latex or non-latex materials.
They are now easy to find online and in pharmacies, grocery stores, adult stores, convenience stores, gas stations, and many other places.
Today, condoms are recognized as an important barrier method for both pregnancy prevention and reducing the risk of sexually transmitted infections (STIs). They are tested and regulated as medical devices to help ensure they meet specific safety and quality standards.
Condoms are also widely promoted through television, websites, magazines, social media, and other marketing channels.
Throughout history, condoms have faced controversy and changing attitudes, much like many other sexual health products. However, they have continued to evolve and remain an important part of safer sex today.