Topic 7: Endocrine System: Contraceptives

Question 1

How do oral contraceptives work? (3)

Answer 1

• high estrogen and progesterone inhibits GnRH secretion
• therefore low FSH and LH
• basically it mimics lute phase so no follicle maturation and no ovulation occur

Question 2

How do implants work?

Answer 2

• example would be progestin, which is a similar mechanism to oral contraceptives

Question 3

How does the morning after pill work? (2)

Answer 3

• high estrogen and progestin, or progestin only
• prevents implantation, ovulation, or fertilization

Question 4

What is the placenta formed from?

Answer 4

• chorion (fetus) and endometrium (maternal)

Question 5

Do the blood of the mother and fetus mix in the placenta?

Answer 5

• blood vessels of mother and fetus are in close proximity. but DO NOT mix

Question 6

What are the 2 functions of the placenta?

Answer 6

• exchange site
• secretes hormones

Question 7

What is the placenta an exchange site for? (3)

Answer 7

• gases, nutrients/wastes, hormones, antibodies (passive immunity)
• drugs (alc, morphinem nic, etc.)
• viruses (measles, polio)

Question 8

What hormones does the placenta secrete?

Answer 8

• E and P
• hCG

Question 9

What is the function of hCG? (3)

Answer 9

• maintains corpus luteum for about 6 weeks post fertilization
• detected by pregnancy tests
• stimulates testosterone secretion by fetal testes