Need a (really) last-minute costume idea? Go as historical birth control!
Birth control has come a long way since The ancient Egyptians used crocodile dung. People have tried all kinds of contraceptives for centuries, with varying degrees of success and safety.
In the early 1900s, diaphragms and cervical caps offered people who owned more control over their reproductive health. Then, the pill revolutionized birth control in the 1960s, giving women a convenient oral option. Today, we have everything from patches and rings to implants and IUDs.
And in the post-Roe world we live in, birth control is more important than ever. That’s why we’ve put together this list of Halloween costumes that represent birth control through the ages. It’s a good reminder that we can take care of ourselves, no matter what the law says.
1920s: Rhythm method flapper
Fertility awareness, also called the rhythm method, is officially “developed” in the 1920s, although people with a uterus have been tracking their menstrual cycles for longer and planning their sexual activity accordingly. Many saw the rhythm method (as well as other birth control methods, such as diaphragms and cervical caps) as emancipation for people with property, allowing them to have sex without the intention of getting pregnant. Of course, the rhythm method is not the most effective in preventing pregnancy when it is not used correctly, leading to unplanned pregnancy.
To pull off this look, you’ll need a flapper dress, complete with fringe, sequins, and a cinched waist. Top it off with a stylish cloche hat, long strands of pearls, fishnet stockings, and T-strap heels.
Now for the props—a pocket calendar to track your cycle and a sign that says, “Jitterbug, not babies!” get the point across. You can also hand out condoms, which are also available at that time. When asked what you are, just flash that calendar and say, “I’m a flapper, not a mother, honey!”
1950s: Dior diaphragm
The 1950s was a time of glamor and post-war exuberance. Why not channel that era with a diaphragm costume? Diaphragms were a popular form of birth control at the time: doctors started recommending them as the most effective method of preventing pregnancy in 1941.
To pull off this retro look, you’ll need a circular piece of thin, flexible rubber to represent the diaphragm itself. A hula hoop, Frisbee, or plastic dish will work well for this. Decorate the edge with rhinestones or sequins for a fancy touch. Attach it to your back if it is larger or to your head, like a hat, if it is smaller.
Add a silk or satin robe, negligee, or a bold 1950s print dress. Floral, polka dot, or cherry patterns are popular and have epitomized the era. Pair with a silk scarf tied around your head for a pin-up vibe.
Finish the look with extravagant makeup, including red lips, cat eyeliner and rosy cheeks. Go for an elaborate updo for the full effect.
When asked about your creative getup, flash a goofy smile and tell them, “A woman never reveals her secrets.” Your shy and carefree attitude will bring everyone back to a time when the future seemed bright and endless. That diaphragm rocks! The night is yours.
1960s: Free love pills
The 60s were an important time for reproductive rights, partly because the invention of the birth control pill gave people with vaginas more control over their fertility and sexuality.
To dress up as the pill, you’ll need a large white fabric circle, felt letters to spell out “The Pill,” double-sided tape or fabric glue, and a headband. Cut a circle of white fabric or felt, or use a paper plate. Use double-sided tape or fabric glue to attach felt letters that spell “pilla” in the center. Attach the circle to a headband, and you’re good to go!
For the rest of you, get a psychedelic patterned dress, fishnet stockings, a peace sign necklace, and round sunglasses.
1980s: Neon Condoms
To pull off this retro 80s look, start with a skintight spandex outfit; the brighter the better. Electric blue, hot pink, screaming orange—channel your inner Jane Fonda and go bold. Accessorize with sweatbands, leg warmers, and a side ponytail or teased updo.
For the pièce de résistance, craft a giant, oversized condom from neon fabric or felt. (Condoms have been around for a long time, but their effectiveness in preventing the spread of HIV makes them a particular symbol of the 80s and 90s!) Sew or glue the material into a long, rounded sleeve shape to slip over your body, like a thin, neon sleeping bag. Use paillettes, rhinestones or puffy paint to add the reservoir tip and brand name of your choice—just keep it “ribbed for her pleasure!”
Y2K: Glitter Plan B
Y2K is in now, so why not go as the iconic emergency contraception (which was released in 1999), Plan B. Find sparkly silver hot pants or a miniskirt and wear the crop top. Write “Plan B” across your midriff in glittery letters. Carry some mints in a Plan B box to complete the look and give them to anyone who asks what you should be.
Add fishnets, thigh high silver boots, and space buns for extra Y2K realness. You will be brightest a reminder of how far we’ve come in reproductive health and how far we still have to go.
Whether you’re on the pill, an IUD, or a diaphragm, you’re sure to start some interesting conversations at your Halloween party this year. And who knows, you might even educate a few people on the different birth control options out there in a memorable way. When else will you have an excuse to walk around as a giant neon condom or a Y2K Plan B?
