Pessaries, England, 1925-1960

Made:
1925-1960 in England
Set of thin circular spring pessaries covered with rubber Set of thin circular spring pessaries covered with rubber

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Set of thin circular spring pessaries covered with rubber
Science Museum Group
© The Board of Trustees of the Science Museum

Set of thin circular spring pessaries covered with rubber
Science Museum Group Collection
© The Board of Trustees of the Science Museum

Set of thin circular spring pessaries covered with rubber, 19 sizes, personal collection of F.T. Burkith, English, 1925-1960

A pessary can be a device to support the vagina or rectum, a form of contraception, or a medical treatment. However, these examples probably measured women for diaphragms. The box contains 19 sizes to fit the patient. Each is individually marked. A diaphragm is a dome-shaped disc that covers the cervix. Sperm is prevented from entering the uterus, preventing pregnancy. This set came from the personal collection of F T Burkitt (1881-1961). He was a British surgeon and radiologist during the 1920s.

Details

Category:
Obstetrics, Gynaecology & Contraception
Collection:
Sir Henry Wellcome's Museum Collection
Object Number:
A500050
Materials:
rubber and metal
Measurements:
overall (box): 950 mm x 140 mm x 110 mm, .228kg
ring (smallest): 450 mm,
ring (largest): 920 mm,
type:
pessary