Contraception Flashcards
Control of male and female reproductive system
Male Reproductive System:
The male reproductive system is controlled by the hypothalamus-pituitary-gonadal (HPG) axis, which involves the hypothalamus and pituitary gland in the brain, and the testes. The hypothalamus releases gonadotropin-releasing hormone (GnRH), which stimulates the pituitary gland to produce luteinizing hormone (LH) and follicle-stimulating hormone (FSH). These hormones then travel through the bloodstream to the testes, where they stimulate the production of testosterone and the maturation of sperm cells.
Female Reproductive System:
The female reproductive system is also controlled by the HPG axis. In this case, the hypothalamus releases GnRH, which stimulates the pituitary gland to produce LH and FSH. These hormones then travel through the bloodstream to the ovaries, where they stimulate the growth and maturation of ovarian follicles. The follicles produce estrogen, which thickens the lining of the uterus in preparation for pregnancy. LH then triggers ovulation, the release of a mature egg from the ovary. If the egg is fertilized, it implants in the uterus and the developing embryo produces human chorionic gonadotropin (hCG), which maintains the uterine lining and prevents menstruation.
explain the Menstrual cycle
Menstrual Phase: This is the first phase of the menstrual cycle and begins on the first day of menstrual bleeding, which lasts about 3-7 days. During this time, the uterus sheds its lining, and the body eliminates blood and tissue through the vagina.
Follicular Phase: This phase begins after the menstrual phase ends and lasts about 7-14 days. During this time, the pituitary gland in the brain secretes follicle-stimulating hormone (FSH), which stimulates the ovaries to develop a follicle containing an egg. The follicle produces estrogen, which causes the lining of the uterus to thicken and prepares it for pregnancy.
Ovulation Phase: This phase occurs around day 14 of the menstrual cycle and is when the mature follicle releases an egg from the ovary. The egg travels through the fallopian tube and can be fertilized by sperm during this time. This is the most fertile time of the menstrual cycle.
Luteal Phase: This phase begins after ovulation and lasts about 10-14 days. The empty follicle left after ovulation transforms into the corpus luteum and begins to produce progesterone. This hormone helps to thicken the lining of the uterus further and prepares it for a fertilized egg to implant. If the egg is not fertilized, the corpus luteum disintegrates, and progesterone levels decrease. This signals the start of a new menstrual cycle, and the lining of the uterus sheds, beginning the menstrual phase again.
Female contraception
Hormonal Contraception: Hormonal methods of contraception, such as birth control pills, patches, injections, and vaginal rings, work by releasing hormones (estrogen and progestin) into the body to prevent ovulation. These methods are highly effective when used correctly but may have side effects, such as weight gain, mood changes, and headaches.
Intrauterine Devices (IUDs): IUDs are small, T-shaped devices inserted into the uterus to prevent fertilization by either releasing hormones or creating a hostile environment for sperm. They are long-lasting and highly effective, with some types lasting up to 10 years. IUDs may cause heavier or longer periods or mild cramping during insertion.
Barrier Methods: Barrier methods of contraception, such as condoms, diaphragms, and cervical caps, work by physically blocking sperm from reaching the egg. They are relatively easy to use and do not require a prescription, but they must be used correctly every time to be effective.
Sterilization: Sterilization is a permanent form of contraception that involves surgical procedures to block or cut the fallopian tubes, preventing eggs from traveling to the uterus. Tubal ligation (tying the tubes) and hysteroscopic sterilization (placing small inserts in the fallopian tubes) are common methods. Sterilization is highly effective but is permanent and not easily reversible.
Natural Family Planning: Natural family planning involves tracking a woman’s menstrual cycle and avoiding sex during the most fertile times of the cycle. This method requires careful monitoring and may not be as effective as other methods.
Male contraception
Condoms: Condoms are a barrier method of contraception that work by physically blocking sperm from entering the vagina. They are widely available, easy to use, and provide protection against sexually transmitted infections (STIs) as well as pregnancy. However, they must be used correctly every time to be effective.
Vasectomy: Vasectomy is a permanent form of contraception that involves cutting or blocking the tubes (vas deferens) that carry sperm from the testicles to the urethra. It is a minor surgical procedure that can be done under local anesthesia in a doctor’s office. Vasectomy is highly effective, but it is a permanent form of contraception and cannot be easily reversed.
Hormonal Contraception: Hormonal methods of contraception for men, such as testosterone injections or implants, work by suppressing the production of sperm. These methods are still under development and not widely available yet.
Non-hormonal Contraception: Non-hormonal methods of contraception for men, such as the use of a contraceptive gel or injection that immobilizes sperm, are still in development and not widely available yet.
