Contraception Methods Flashcards
What is contraception?
Contraception refers to methods or devices used to prevent pregnancy.
What are the main types of contraception?
The main types include barrier methods, hormonal methods, intrauterine devices, sterilisation, and natural methods.
What are the common barrier methods of contraception?
Barrier methods include male condoms, female condoms, diaphragms, and cervical caps.
What are the benefits of using barrier methods?
Barrier methods prevent pregnancy and reduce the transmission of sexually transmitted infections (STIs).
What are the potential disadvantages of barrier methods?
They can be less effective if used incorrectly and may interrupt sexual activity.
What are hormonal contraceptives?
Hormonal contraceptives are methods that use hormones to prevent ovulation, thicken cervical mucus, or thin the endometrium.
What are the common forms of hormonal contraception?
Common forms include combined oral contraceptive pills, progestogen-only pills, contraceptive implants, injections, and patches.
How does the combined oral contraceptive pill work?
It prevents ovulation, thickens cervical mucus, and alters the endometrial lining to prevent implantation.
What are some advantages of the combined oral contraceptive pill?
Advantages include effective pregnancy prevention, cycle regulation, and reduction in menstrual symptoms.
What are the risks associated with the combined oral contraceptive pill?
Risks include increased risk of blood clots, stroke, and certain cancers.
What is the progestogen-only pill (POP)?
The POP contains only progestogen and primarily works by thickening cervical mucus.
Who might benefit from using the progestogen-only pill?
It is suitable for individuals who cannot use oestrogen-containing contraception, such as those with a history of blood clots.
What is a contraceptive implant?
A contraceptive implant is a small rod inserted under the skin that releases progestogen to prevent pregnancy.
How long does a contraceptive implant last?
It is effective for up to three years.
What are the benefits of a contraceptive implant?
It is highly effective, long-lasting, and does not require daily adherence.
What is an intrauterine device (IUD)?
An IUD is a small, T-shaped device inserted into the uterus to prevent pregnancy.
What are the types of intrauterine devices?
Types include copper IUDs and hormonal IUDs.
How does a copper IUD prevent pregnancy?
It releases copper, which is toxic to sperm and prevents fertilisation.
What is the effectiveness of intrauterine devices?
Both copper and hormonal IUDs are over 99% effective in preventing pregnancy.
What are potential complications of intrauterine devices?
Complications include pelvic inflammatory disease, perforation of the uterus, and expulsion of the device.
What is sterilisation as a method of contraception?
Sterilisation is a permanent method of contraception achieved through surgical procedures like tubal ligation or vasectomy.
What are the advantages of sterilisation?
It is highly effective and does not require ongoing adherence.
What are natural methods of contraception?
Natural methods involve tracking fertility signs, such as basal body temperature and cervical mucus, to avoid intercourse during fertile periods.
What are the limitations of natural methods?
They require careful monitoring and have higher failure rates compared to other methods.
How can emergency contraception be accessed?
Emergency contraception is available as oral pills (e.g., levonorgestrel or ulipristal acetate) or a copper IUD.
