What happened to women under the CDA's?

Question 1

If a woman was identified as a prostitute, what would happen?

Answer 1

They would be put on a register and required to take fortnightly examinations for venereal disease.

Question 2

If a woman was found clean of venereal disease, what would happen?

Answer 2

They would be given a card with their registration number and surgeon’s signature to verify to customers that they were clean.

Question 3

How long would a woman have to stay in a lock hospital for if they were diseased?

Answer 3

Up to 9 months.

Question 4

What was the common treatment?

Answer 4

Mercury, known to be toxic now. Caused severe side effects. Relieved some symptoms but was not a cure. Physical impact on women was severe.