Paper short abstract:

In this panel we will talk about the perception of birth in different cultures, but with the focus on Serbia. Our main interest is in the prevention of birth, and how it became a taboo theme.

Paper long abstract:

We will examine different kinds of preventing pregnancy. When we discuss birth control, we mean different contraceptive techniques condoms, pills, surgical prevention of pregnancy, role of alternative medicine, and other. Social norms - like religion, politics, media and economic circumstances - also construct and influence the attitudes to pregnancy and birth. Are the modern way of living, as well as development of medicine and technology, important factors in raising/decreasing unwanted consequences? We will also discuss the imposition of the other's will on women, throughout the centuries. It is only in modern times that women finally won the freedom to make decisions related to pregnancy and birth. The disappearance of patriarchal society pushed back the age when young people enter in sexual relations, and this is anotyher aspect that must be taken into account, as it influences women's ability to build their own careers.