Condoms Through History

By: Marcus Beasley

            When you think of contraception, the first thing that usually comes to mind is condoms. Condoms are one of the most common forms or birth control and STD prevention because they are small and can fit almost anywhere. If you have ever wondered when condoms were first used or if they have always looked the same, this blog will answer those questions.

            The condom is actually older than you

might think. The earliest condoms were made from pig intestine and were first introduced in 1640. [1] It may be surprising that condoms have been around for so long. The first condoms made from animal intestines were the first ones that the public could buy, but because of their price, many people reused them.[2] I find it pretty disgusting that animal intestines were used for condoms, but I guess that is what had to be done.

            Condoms have advanced tremendously since the first ones that were available to the public. Sometime in 1839, Charles Goodyear, found out a way to make rubber more elastic than it would be if it were not processed. The very first condoms made from rubber were super thick and probably did not feel very good on the man that was using it.[3]

            There were other types of condoms that existed during the time period of first rubber condoms. The other type of condoms that was used was a small rubber cap that would only cover up the glans and the problem with these is that they could easily be lost and they could also be too tight.[4] Condoms have obviously advance since the early days because now most condoms are made from rubber latex.

           The most common type of condom that people think about and know most about is the modern condom. Most people have at least held one and knows how thin they are and what they look like. Modern condoms are super durable and can be stretched extremely far. There are different type of condoms for people who are allergic to latex can use. The alternate to latex condoms are polyurethane and lambskin.[5]

            Condoms have obviously came a long way since they were first made available to the public and I am sure it is a very good thing that they have. The very first condoms seem to be extremely uncomfortable and I am sure nobody enjoyed using them. Nowadays condoms are available pretty much anywhere you go and their change through history has been a positive one.

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[1] Crystal Moore, "Sexuality Within The Victorian Family." (unpublished lecture., UNCC, ).

[2] Escobar, Samantha. "The Condom Timeline: A Detailed History Of Wrapping It Up." Accessed February 26, 2014. http://www.yourtango.com/2013189729/condom-timeline-detailed-history-wrapping-it.

[3] "Condomerie." Accessed February 26, 2014. http://condomerie.com/geschiedenis_condoom?___store=italiaans&___from_store=francais.

[4] "Condomerie." Accessed February 26, 2014. http://condomerie.com/geschiedenis_condoom?___store=italiaans&___from_store=francais.

[5] Mike, Hatcher. "History of condoms from ancient times to the present." Last modified December 27, 2012. Accessed February 26, 2014. http://www.examiner.com/article/history-of-condoms-from-ancient-times-to-the-present.