The most famous contraceptive of antiquity. A giant fennel from Cyrene so effective and popular it was harvested to extinction by the 1st century CE.
Potent herbs like pennyroyal, rue, and Queen Anne’s Lace were used to induce contractions.
Early doctors like Soranus of Ephesus (2nd century CE) incorrectly believed women were most fertile right after menstruation, leading to ineffective timing strategies. Contraception and Abortion from the Ancient Wor...
Highly advanced medical papyri (like the Ebers Papyri) list numerous recipes for "emptying the womb," suggesting it was a standard medical procedure.
Midwives and doctors utilized probes or vigorous physical activity (jumping, heavy lifting) to terminate pregnancies. The most famous contraceptive of antiquity
Egyptian women used pessaries made of crocodile dung, honey, or lint. The acidity likely acted as a mild spermicide.
Ancient medical texts are historical documents. Many substances mentioned—like or lead —are highly toxic and can be fatal. Early doctors like Soranus of Ephesus (2nd century
In some cultures, women drank solutions containing toxic metals. While they prevented pregnancy, they often caused organ failure or death. ⚕️ Abortion: Surgical and Chemical