ABSTRACT
A crucial factor in the period between the wars was the growth in the availability of contraception. In fact the effects of liberalizing contraception on the number of abortions may vary. Medical World of December 1932 called contraception premature abortion and commented primly about intercourse: 'Nature originated the sexual act for procreation only, and not as a diversion, amusement or business.' Marie Stopes genuinely opposed abortion, and was also concerned that the issue might harm her fight for birth control. The liberalization of attitudes and the spread of contraception were clearly factors influencing the number of abortions. To bring on the abortion women tried a variety of techniques including herb teas, turpentine, rolling downstairs, inserting slippery elm and knitting needles. Radical women were also prime movers of the pressure group for the reform of the abortion law.
