Condoms And Contraception

The Egyptians have been pioneers in the use of condoms for protection against sexually transmitted diseases. The first historical mention of use of condoms (in the form of a linen sheath) dates back to as early as 1000 BC! Paintings and ancient writings hint at the possibility of condoms being used also in Europe, especially Rome around 100- 200 AD.

Perhaps the spread of syphilis, a sexually transmitted disease across Europe around the 1500s prompted for the invention of the condom. A simple sheath made out of linen was claimed to prevent spread of the infection. Such sheaths were soaked in a chemical solution and later allowed to dry, paving the way for incorporation of the first spermicides on condoms. The use of condoms for contraception is nothing more than an extrapolation of condom functionality.

The word 'condum' was first used in a poem composed at around 1706. The invention of the condom is still controversial. Several reports suggest that the device is named after Dr. Condom who lived during the reign of Charles II. Condoms made out of animal intestines were available around 1700 AD. However, cost concerns limited the wider usability of this simple device.