What is contraception?

Contraception refers to any method or device that is used to prevent pregnancy.

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Which 2 hormones do hormonal methods of contraception use?

Oestrogen and/or progesterone.

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How does the steady release of oestrogen and/or progesterone prevent pregnancy?

They inhibit the release of FSH, which means that eggs can't mature and be released.


Progesterone also stimulates the production of cervical mucus, which blocks the passage of sperm and so stops it from reaching the egg.

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Name 5 hormonal methods of contraception.

  1. Oral contraceptive pills (e.g. combined oral contraceptive pill, or the progesterone-only pill).
  2. Skin patch.
  3. Injection.
  4. Implant
  5. Intrauterine device (IUD).

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What is the combined oral contraceptive pill?

It is a pill containing oestrogen and progesterone to prevent pregnancy.


It is 99% effective, but can have side effects such as headaches or nausea.


The pill has to be taken every day for 21 days, followed by a 7-day break, then repeat. 

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What is the progesterone-only pill?

It is a pill containing progesterone to prevent pregnancy.


It is 99% effective, and often has fewer side effects than the combined oral contraceptive pill.


The pill has to be taken every day. 

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What is a contraceptive skin patch?

It is a patch that can be placed on the skin and slowly releases hormones to prevent pregnancy.


Each patch lasts 1 week. 

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What is a contraceptive injection?

It is an injection of hormones to prevent pregnancy.


Each injection lasts ~3 months.

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What is a contraceptive implant?

It is a small device, injected under the skin, that slowly releases hormones to prevent pregnancy.


Each implants lasts ~3 years.

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What is an intrauterine device (IUD)?

It is a small device, placed in the uterus, that slowly releases hormones to prevent pregnancy.


Each IUD can last up to 5 years. 

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Name 7 non-hormonal methods of contraception.

  1. Condoms.
  2. Diaphragms.
  3. Copper.
  4. Intrauterine device.
  5. Spermicides.
  6. Abstaining from intercourse.
  7. Sterilisation. 

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Name 2 barrier methods of contraception. How do they work?

Condoms and diaphragms.


Barrier methods work by preventing the sperm from reaching an egg.


Condoms cover the penis, while diaphragms cover the cervix (entrance to the uterus). 

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What is a spermicide?

A chemical that kills sperm cells.

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How does sterilisation work for males?

The sperm cord is cut and tied, so that sperm cannot be ejaculated.

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How does sterilisation work for females?

The fallopian tubes (oviducts) are cut and tied, so that eggs from the ovaries cannot reach the uterus.

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