The contraceptive revolution [editorial]

This article offers reflections on the contraceptive revolution and its historical impact. In the field of human procreation the chain of revolutions was ushered into existence by the contraceptive revolution which started in 1955. Its impact on history was enormous. The recognition that it is no longer mother nature but Homo sapiens that sets the boundaries between artificial and natural human procreation has shaken the foundations of the deterministic world view and opened the door to the new era of anthropocentric philosophy. In retrospect it is clear that the introduction of steroidal contraception in 1959 and beyond is a major historical revolution--scientifically medically socially and ethically. The contraceptive revolution gave rise to the revolution in reproductive health and gender equity. Worldwide contraceptive use by almost 1 billion couples creates a palpable demographic impact. To demonstrate its effect on demography data from the years 1955 1970 2000 and 2030 are presented. Estimates reveal an impressive decline in fertility rates in all parts of the world. However the revolution of contraception has ended. Because of its major health and social benefits contraception has come to develop further in the next century. There is still a need for a new contraceptive revolution with a woman-centered agenda which remains a challenge in the 21st century.