Historical information

The Pro Race cervical cap was used in the early 1960s. This pessary came from Professor Geoff Bishop's rooms, Mollison House, 386 Albert Street, East Melbourne.
The pamphlet associated with this item says that this device was mentioned by Marie Stopes in her book, 'Contraception'.

Significance

Before birth control pills, the cervical cap was used as a barrier method of contraception for women. The cervical cap is hormone-free and creates a physical barrier over the cervix to prevent sperm from reaching the uterus. The cervical cap is first filled with spermicide before insertion which kills any sperm that may enter the cap. There were many complaints about how difficult it was to remove and it also does not prevent STDs; however, it could be worn for longer (48 hours) than a diaphragm.

Physical description

Cervical cap made of black latex rubber with rolled rim. With original manufacturer's box. Box is pink cardboard and printed with the text '"Pro-Race"/ REGISTERED TRADE MARK/ PURE LATEX/A.SAUNDERS & CO PTY. LTD./ MELBOURNE". Object also includes a paper instruction sheet detailing product information and method of use - the instructions include diagrams.