Topic 5b- Contraceptives

Question 1

What are contraceptives used for?

Answer 1

To prevent pregnancy.

Question 2

What hormones can be used as contraceptives?

Answer 2

Oestrogen:-

• If oestrogen levels are kept permenantly high production of FSH is inhibited and after a while egg maturation and egg release stop and stay stopped.

Progesterone:-

• Stimulates production of thick cervical mucus which prevents any sperm getting through and reaching an egg.
• Inhibits FSH and therefore egg maturation and release.

Question 2

What are pros / cons of the combined contraceptive pill?

Answer 2

Pros:

• over 99% effective
• can reduce risk of getting certain types of cancer

Cons:

• isn’t 100% effective
• can cause side effects like headaches, nausea, irregular menstrual bleeding and fluid retention
• doesn’t protect against STDs (i mean kinda obvious?)

Question 3

What does the combined pill contain?

Answer 3

Progesterone and oestorgen

Question 4

How long does a contraceptive patch last? Whats in it?

Answer 4

• lasts for 1 week
• contains oestrogen and progesterone

Question 5

What are barrier methods of contraception?

Answer 5

• condoms
• diaphragm

Question 6

What must a diaphragm (contraceptive) be used alongside?

Answer 6

Spermicide

Question 7

What are intrauterine devices? (IUDs)

Answer 7

T shaped devices inserted into the uterus to kill sperm / prevent implantation of fertilised eggs

Two types:

• plastic that release progesterone
• copper that prevent sperm cells surviving the uterus

Question 8

What does sterilisation involve?

Answer 8

• Cutting or tying the fallopian tubes in a female
• Cutting or tying the sperm duct in a male
• Permenant procedure

Question 9

Natural methods

Answer 9

Timing when having sex with the menstrual cycle to avoid ovulation- still not very effective