Chastity belts

[Kay]

As worn by ladies in days of yore. If the husband had the key how on earth did the ladies go to the toilet? Another thing is,,How did they manage with their periods? Im really interested in finding out about this. Any replies well appreciated. Thanks.

[tock24]

There were holes placed in strategic positions to allow for 'bodily functions'. Some had wicked 'teeth' that were bent in such a way as to allow exit, but no entry! There is a fine example in Warwick Castle.

The belts were not very close fitting, so padding/towels etc could be inserted to allow for the necessary

[Dakota]

I had wondered that previously too, how did the women remain hygeinic? (sp) or was it not an issue back then?

[woofgang]

I remeber reading somewhere that they were a victorian "fake history" invention and not actually used in days of yore

[woofgang]

there are websites which confirm this view but I won't post links because the illustrations are definitely NOT family website friendly

incidentally, the genuine ones appear to be all of a later date and designed for men, those worn by ladies were allegedly generally intended to prevent rape and controlled by the wearer

[Kay]

woofgang. I've just found that site you mentioned,seems like chastity belts were used more by males eh? They do however mention ladies wearing them as far back as the renaisoncce {sp} or at least allegedly:-)))

[jno]

yes, wikipedia also has doubts about their existence in history. It does have photos and helpful advice about looking after them if you have one, so I won't bother posting a link.