The Pill: A Biography of the Drug That Changed the World

by Bernard Asbell

With as many twists and turns as a thriller, this biography of the birth control pill tells the story of the committed people--Margaret Sanger, Katharine McCormick, and Dr. Gregory Pincus, among others--who pioneered the its development, as well as the two scientists who defied the law to advance its research. Photos.

Genres: Science, Nonfiction, History, Medicine

411 pages, Hardcover

First published January 1, 1995

Reviews

[Nina · Rating 3 out of 5]

Fascinating! I had no idea that hormones were related to steroids and that the search for cortisol, is what led to the discovery of the pill. I would have given this book higher marks if not for the 3-4 chapters on the catholic church and their stance on birth control. Great insight to history of the times of women's reproductive rights. I really liked the conclusion about how we lose our rights to free choice if we start making decisions that no one really knows the "correct" answer to, such as whether to outlaw abortion or not to. HMMM

[Larry · Rating 4 out of 5]

If anyone wants to understand the politics of abortion, this book is a must-read. At the turn of the twentieth century, married women were often subjected to an endless series of pregnancies with few reliable options to break the chain. This book explains how the understanding of hormones and steroids interwoven with the discovery of a source for producing artificial estrogen led to effective birth control. Its development has significantly reduced the dangers to women and must be heartily applauded.

[Heidi · Rating 4 out of 5]

This was very interesting. It delved into social, scientific, political and religious hurdles that had to be overcome in order to develop and make “the pill” available to the general public. It includes brief biographies of the people and scientific processes that were key. In addition, the repercussions of its availability are examined. It also briefly looks ahead to what may be available in the future. 2010 is the 50th anniversary!

[Veronica · Rating 4 out of 5]

Well organized, fascinating read. I recommend it to every woman, especially those even mildly interested in the social impact and history of birth control. It dealt with the social debate and religious views very tactfully and thoroughly, as well as modern ongoing health debates. Great read, even if it didn't have all the science I was looking for.

[Danielle · Rating 4 out of 5]

This book is a thorough account of the history of how oral contraception, once considered vulgar and for many years, illegal, became one of the most commonly prescribed drugs for women.

[Lauren · Rating 4 out of 5]

Not just a fascinating history of The Pill, but a history of the science of the human reproductive system.