Vaginal douche, the 'Omega Spray', England, 1900-1940

Made:
1901-1940 in England
Rubber and vulcanite vaginal douche, the "Omega Spray"

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Rubber and vulcanite vaginal douche, the "Omega Spray"
Science Museum Group Collection
© The Board of Trustees of the Science Museum

Rubber and vulcanite vaginal douche, the "Omega Spray", by Ingram, English, 1901-1940

A vaginal douche forces water or another solution into the vaginal cavity to flush away vaginal discharge or other contents. This one is made out of rubber and vulcanite. Douches were often used by women as a contraceptive. However, douching is quite an ineffective form of contraception. It is also an ineffective protection against sexually transmitted infections. Regular douching can alter the chemical balance of the vagina. This makes a woman more susceptible to infections such as pelvic inflammatory disease. This type of douche is called the ‘Omega Spray’. It was made by Ingram in England and was patented by Raine.

Details

Category:
Obstetrics, Gynaecology & Contraception
Collection:
Sir Henry Wellcome's Museum Collection
Object Number:
A626910
Materials:
nozzle, vulcanite and bulb, rubber
Measurements:
overall: 75 mm x 240 mm 75 mm, 0.2kg
type:
douche
credit:
Marie Stopes Memorial Foundation