21.4 Control of Reproduction

Question 1

abstinence

Answer 1

efers to the voluntary choice to refrain from certain activities, most commonly sexual intercourse. It is often practiced as a method of birth control, disease prevention, or for personal, cultural, or religious reasons. In terms of contraception, abstinence is the only 100% effective method for preventing pregnancy and sexually transmitted infections (STIs).

Question 2

diaphragm

Answer 2

A diaphragm is a barrier method of contraception, a flexible, dome-shaped device made of silicone or rubber. It is inserted into the vagina to cover the cervix, preventing sperm from entering the uterus. It is typically used with spermicide to increase effectiveness. The diaphragm must be inserted before sexual intercourse and left in place for several hours afterward. It does not provide protection against sexually transmitted infections (STIs).

Question 3

emergency contraception

Answer 3

Emergency contraception refers to methods used to prevent pregnancy after unprotected sex or contraceptive failure (e.g., condom breakage). It is most effective when taken as soon as possible after intercourse, but can work up to 72-120 hours depending on the method used.

Question 4

IUD

Answer 4

An IUD (intrauterine device) is a small, T-shaped device inserted into the uterus by a healthcare provider as a long-term form of birth control. There are two main types:

Copper IUD: Releases copper ions, which are toxic to sperm, preventing fertilization. It can remain in place for up to 10 years.
Hormonal IUD: Releases a small amount of the hormone progestin, which thickens cervical mucus to block sperm and may also prevent ovulation. It can remain in place for 3-7 years depending on the brand.
IUDs are highly effective, with a failure rate of less than 1%. They also offer long-term protection against pregnancy but do not protect against sexually transmitted infections (STIs).

Question 5

tubal ligation

Answer 5

Tubal ligation is a permanent surgical procedure for female sterilization, where the fallopian tubes are cut, tied, or blocked to prevent eggs from traveling from the ovaries to the uterus. This procedure also stops sperm from reaching the egg for fertilization. Tubal ligation is highly effective in preventing pregnancy but does not protect against sexually transmitted infections (STIs). It is considered a permanent method of contraception, though in some cases, reversal is possible, but success rates vary.

Question 6

vasectomy

Answer 6

A vasectomy is a permanent male sterilization procedure in which the vas deferens (the tubes that carry sperm from the testes to the urethra) are cut, tied, or sealed. This prevents sperm from mixing with semen during ejaculation, effectively preventing pregnancy. The procedure is highly effective and considered permanent, though reversals are sometimes possible, but success rates decrease over time. A vasectomy does not affect sexual function or hormone production, and it does not provide protection against sexually transmitted infections (STIs).