Contraception Flashcards

All 7 cards in this deck

How do oral contraceptives (the pill) prevent pregnancy?

They contain hormones that inhibit FSH production, so no eggs mature.

Which hormone is given by injection, implant or skin patch as a contraceptive, and what does it do?

Slow release progesterone, which inhibits the maturation and release of eggs for a number of months or years.

How does an intrauterine device (IUD) prevent pregnancy?

It prevents the implantation of an embryo, or releases a hormone.

How do barrier methods of contraception work, and name two.

They prevent the sperm reaching an egg; e.g. condoms and diaphragms.

Name three non-hormonal methods of contraception other than barrier methods.

Spermicidal agents (kill or disable sperm), abstaining from intercourse when an egg may be in the oviduct, and surgical sterilisation of the male or female.

Give one advantage and one disadvantage of using the contraceptive pill rather than condoms.

Advantage: more effective at preventing pregnancy if taken correctly.
Disadvantage: can cause side effects and gives no protection against sexually transmitted infections.

True or false? Sterilisation is a suitable method of contraception for a young woman who may want children in a few years' time.

False.
Sterilisation is permanent and very hard to reverse, so a reversible method such as the pill, implant or condoms would suit her better.