Understanding Abortion in Antiquity: An Exhibition at the Museum of Contraception and Abortion

This display explores the historical practices and societal attitudes towards abortion in ancient civilizations, including Egypt, Greece, and Rome. It details ancient methods, philosophical views, and medical knowledge concerning abortion from different historical periods.

The 'Abortion in Antiquity' display delves into the historical understanding and practice of abortion across ancient civilizations. It begins with evidence from the Ancient Egyptian Papyrus Ebers (ca. 1600 BC), which outlines methods using herbal drinks, vaginal douches, and suppositories. The text then moves to Ancient Greece, where fertility was valued but population control was also a concern, with philosophers like Plato and Aristotle postulating early abortion as a means to maintain population size. It clarifies that the Hippocratic oath did not contain an absolute ban on abortion but rather a specific prohibition regarding the use of a particular substance in a certain application. In Ancient Rome, similar attitudes prevailed regarding population management and inheritance, with the fetus considered a part of the woman's body. Roman medical knowledge was extensive, with over two hundred abortifacients known, including expulsion methods and drugs to induce stillbirth, often preceded by preparatory measures like hunger cures and bloodletting.

Visitor information regarding opening hours and tickets can be found on the museum's website. Specific exhibition ticketing is not detailed on this page, suggesting it is part of general museum admission or a permanent display. For current details on visiting, please refer to the museum's official website for opening hours and ticketing information.