The Oldest Condom Still in Existence?

We tend to think of condoms as modern devices designed to prevent pregnancy and sexually transmitted diseases. But its history goes back many thousands of years. Now the oldest existing condoms have been found in Lund, Sweden and Birmingham, England, which shows that the use of condoms to protect wearers against sexually transmitted diseases was common during the early 1600's.

The Swedish condom is made of pig intestine, and believed to have been made and used around 1640 AD. It is completely intact and was found with a user’s manual written in Latin. Among other things, the manual instructs its wearer to soak it in warm milk to prevent diseases. The moistening probably made it more comfortable for its wearer, too.

Actually, this condom is a relative latecomer, although it’s one of the oldest examples we have. Other condoms of a similar age were found by archaeologists exploring the foundations of Dudley Castle near Birmingham, England. The English condoms were made of animal and fish intestines and may have been used during the war between Cromwell and King Charles I.

There is evidence that condoms were used by Egyptians as far back as 1,000 BC. Cave paintings at Combarelles in France are believed to show condom use and are approximately 2,000 years old. Condoms made of dried sheep intestines were used by Roman soldiers to protect themselves during long campaigns away from home.

While it appears that most condoms were made from animal intestines, some accounts describe prophylactics made of linen. Literature suggests that the men had long recognized that condoms prevented unwanted pregnancies. In fact, Casanova, the legendary 19^th century womanizer, was said to have used linen condoms regularly. He referred to them as "Redingote Anglaise," meaning ‘English Riding Coat."

Today’s condoms are generally made of rubber and plastic, but the basic shape and uses of these devices are really no different than those of their ancient ancestors. Sometimes, it seems, it’s hard to improve on a good basic idea.
You probably know more about condoms than you care to. But in case you’re interested in finding out more, go here.