Contagious Diseases Acts

The Contagious Diseases Acts were a series of laws enacted in Britain during the late 19th century aimed at tackling sexually transmitted infections, particularly among soldiers. The laws allowed for the medical examination of women suspected of being prostitutes in certain port and garrison towns. If found to be infected, they could be confined in hospitals for treatment. These acts sparked significant societal debate and criticism, focusing on issues of morality, gender equality, and state control over women’s bodies, ultimately leading to their repeal in the 1880s and influencing later public health policies.