1. The population problem and the pill -- 2. The contraceptive challenge : the search for a pill -- 3. Sexual chemistry -- 4. Human guinea pigs? -- 5. Doctors and the pill -- 6. Handling health concerns of the pill : thrombosis -- 7. The pill and the riddle of cancer -- 8. 'A dream come true' : the reception of the pill -- 9. Divisive device : the pill and the Catholic Church -- 10. Panacea or poisoned chalice?