My colleague Ann Friedman has an interesting post on the history of the douchebag -- not just as an insult, or cleansing device, but as an early-20th century contraceptive. Apparently, the douchebag, paired with a sort of prototype diaphragm called a pessary, was the birth control of choice for women in committed relationships. Like the pill or the patch today, it let you escape from latex. It was only later that douchebags became a hygiene device and, later, a descriptor for Joe Francis. Her post also has a few interesting links for those committed to further douchebag studies. This is, incidentally, the most fun topic to write about ever.
