Question 1: Contraception methods prevent fertilisation by interfering with the reproductive process. They include hormonal, barrier, and surgical techniques. Understanding how these methods work and their effectiveness is essential for making informed choices.

Answer: Contraception methods prevent fertilisation by blocking sperm, ovulation, or implantation, using hormonal, barrier, or surgical techniques.

Question 1: Define hormonal contraception and give an example.

Answer: Hormonal contraception uses hormones to prevent ovulation; an example is the combined oral contraceptive pill.

Question 2: Describe how barrier methods such as condoms prevent fertilisation.

Answer: Barrier methods physically block sperm from entering the uterus, preventing fertilisation.

Question 1: A contraceptive pill has a failure rate of 0.3% per year. Calculate the probability (as a percentage) that a woman using this pill for 3 years will experience contraception failure, assuming failure events are independent each year.

Answer: 0.3% per year; probability of failure over 3 years = 1 - (1 - 0.003)^3 ≈ 0.89%

Question 2: A hormone implant releases 60 micrograms of progestogen daily. If a patient needs a total of 1800 micrograms per week, how many days of hormone release are needed to reach this dosage?

Answer: 1800 micrograms per week; daily release = 60 micrograms; days = 1800 / 60 = 30 days.

Question 1: Describe a basic experiment to test the effectiveness of a new contraceptive gel in preventing sperm penetration.

Answer: Apply sperm samples to the gel-coated surface, then attempt to detect sperm penetration using microscopy or chemical indicators. Variables include gel concentration (independent), sperm penetration (dependent), and temperature (controlled). Safety precautions include wearing gloves and eye protection.

Question 2: Identify two variables that should be kept constant during the testing of barrier contraceptives.

Answer: Sperm concentration and incubation temperature.

Question 1: A study reports that out of 10,000 women using a particular contraceptive method, 30 experienced pregnancy over one year. Calculate the failure rate percentage and discuss its effectiveness.

Answer: Failure rate = (30/10000) × 100 = 0.3%. This indicates a high level of effectiveness, comparable to other contraceptive methods.

Question 1: Explain the advantages and disadvantages of hormonal contraception compared to barrier methods.

Answer: Advantages include high effectiveness, convenience, and regulation of menstrual cycles. Disadvantages involve hormonal side effects, such as mood changes or weight gain, and the need for daily or regular administration. Barrier methods are less effective but have fewer systemic side effects and provide protection against some sexually transmitted infections.

Question 2: In a population, the use of a new contraceptive technology reduces the pregnancy rate from 5% to 1% over five years. Discuss the potential impact on population growth and societal implications.

Answer: The reduction in pregnancy rate can lead to slower population growth, which may impact economic development and resource allocation. Societally, increased access to effective contraception can improve women's health, reduce unintended pregnancies, and empower reproductive choices. However, ethical concerns and access disparities may arise that need addressing.