B5- Controlling fertility

• What is required for pregnancy to occur?

  Sperm must reach the ovulated egg
• What is the purpose of contraception?

  To prevent sperm from reaching the egg
• Which hormone can prevent the release of an egg?

  Oestrogen
• How does oestrogen affect egg production?

  It inhibits the release of other hormones
• What happens if oestrogen is taken daily?

  It keeps oestrogen levels permanently high
• How does thick cervical mucus affect fertility?

  It prevents sperm from reaching the egg
• What is the role of progesterone in fertility?

  It disrupts the production of eggs
• What does the combined pill contain?

  Oestrogen and progesterone
• What is the effectiveness rate of the combined pill?

  Over 99%
• What are some side effects of the combined pill?

  Headaches and nausea
• Does the combined pill protect against STDs?

  No, it does not
• What is the advantage of the progesterone-only pill?

  It has fewer side effects
• What does the contraceptive patch contain?

  Oestrogen and progesterone
• How long does a contraceptive patch last?

  One week
• Where is the contraceptive implant inserted?

  Under the skin of the arm
• How long can a contraceptive implant last?

  Three years
• What does the contraceptive injection contain?

  Progesterone
• How long does each dose of the contraceptive injection last?

  2 to 3 months
• What is an intrauterine device (IUD)?

  A T-shaped device inserted into the uterus
• What are the two main types of IUDs?

  Plastic IUDs and copper IUDs
• What is the function of a diaphragm in contraception?

  It forms a barrier over the cervix
• What must a diaphragm be used with?

  Spermicide
• How effective is spermicide alone as contraception?

  About 70-80%
• What is sterilization in contraception?

  • Cutting or tying fallopian tubes in females
  • Cutting or tying sperm duct in males
  • Permanent procedure with small chance of rejoining
• What are natural methods of avoiding pregnancy?

  • Tracking menstrual cycle for fertility
  • Avoiding intercourse on fertile days
  • Less effective than hormonal methods
• What is abstinence in terms of contraception?

  • Complete avoidance of sexual intercourse
  • Ensures sperm and egg do not meet