In the Mediterranean and ancient Near East, family planning was an integral part of the medical practices and social norms of the time, including abortion and contraception. These practices were already present in ancient Egypt before Christ. Written records from about 1,500 years ago attest to them. Later references to them can also be found in the civilizations of Babylon, Greece, and Syria.
Ancient medical texts provide insight into the techniques used in abortion. These included the use of herbs capable of inducing a miscarriage or terminating a pregnancy, as well as surgical interventions, although surgical interventions were less common due to the higher risks involved. Some herbs, such as mint and acacia, are still known today for their anti-abortion properties, while others, such as silphium, have unfortunately become extinct.
Access to contraception is also likely to depend on geographic location and socioeconomic status. Wealthier people had better access to trained doctors or midwives who could perform these procedures safely. However, there is also evidence that less fortunate families were also able to access these services through local healers or midwives.
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The most famous ancient contraceptive techniques are as follows:
- With herbal remedies: Many plants were used as contraceptives in the ancient world. These included mint, pomegranate, turmeric, and saffron. The effectiveness of these plants has not been proven and is likely to have a placebo effect rather than a true contraceptive effect.
- Physical methods: Certain physical methods of contraception have also been used, such as vaginal tampons or pessaries. These methods may be more effective than herbal remedies, but they are still not 100% reliable.
- end: Abortion, i.e. stopping intercourse before ejaculation, is one of the oldest known methods of contraception. This method can be very effective, but it is difficult to master and apply consistently.
- asceticism: Some religious and philosophical groups advocated asceticism, i.e. avoiding sexual activity, as a form of birth control. This method was apparently effective in preventing pregnancy, but it was not practical for most people.
Social views on abortion and contraception were complex. Some texts portrayed these practices negatively, often using them to stigmatize certain groups, while other texts acknowledged their importance in maintaining women's health and well-being. Religious and cultural beliefs also influenced attitudes toward practices such as these. Some societies permitted abortion if necessary to protect the mother's life.
In ancient civilizations, family planning was a complex topic that had to be studied not only from a medical point of view, but also from social, religious and cultural aspects. Archaeological findings and written sources provide insight into how these practices developed and how they were integrated into daily life.
source: Ancient origins
