A new book, A History of Women in 100 Objects by Maggie Andrews and Janis Lomas, reminds us of this on a visual level. It examines the medical, cultural and general objects that symbolise female progress. "Everyday items can tell us so much," says Krista Cowman, a professor of history at Lincoln University. "That's why social history museums are so popular. It's a physical reminder of how far we've come, from girdles to sanitary care."

This might all sound like a pointless exercise, but at a time where sexual assault and harassment allegations are springing up all around us, it’s more important than ever. After decades of being hushed up and ignored, women’s voices are only just starting to be heard. The #MeToo movement shows how many of us have been forced into a corner over the years, be it emotionally or physically, and how we are now fighting back.