Barnes-Hodges style pessary associated with Dr Frank Forster, Barnes Hodges, England

Historical information

Uterine and anal pessaries were in use in the early 1900s. Both size and shape of the pessary varied considerably. Pessaries were often round ('ring' pessaries) or irregular shape, depending on the maker. The name of the pessarty was usually that of the inventor.

Physical description

Pessary. Intra-uterine contraceptive device, consisting of red rubber outer covering over wire or vulcanite in an irregular shape. Most likely hand made. Inscribed "PATENTED" at .

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