Leaflet about the Frauenheil douche, Europe, 1895-1905
Vaginal douches were a contraceptive. They involved flushing the woman's vagina after sexual intercourse. This leaflet advertised the Frauenheil douche. It was written in the early 1900s. This was when contraception was more scarce and often frowned upon by parts of society. The leaflet was written in a very indirect manner. This allowed the reader to use the douche or syringe for ‘hygienic’ reasons rather than as a contraceptive.
Object number:
E2009.121.3
Related Themes and Topics
Glossary:
Glossary: leaflet
Use for small printed works consisting of one sheet folded and not stitched or bound. For larger printed works, but generally of fewer than 80 pages, often with paper covers, use "pamphlets."
Glossary: contraception
The use of methods and techniques to prevent pregnancy from sex.
Glossary: douche
Liquids (sea water, lemon juice, vinegar or shop-bought preparations) used to rinse the vagina before or after sexual activity.