Question 1: Contraception refers to methods used to prevent fertilisation or pregnancy. It includes a variety of techniques such as barrier methods, hormonal methods, and surgical procedures. Understanding how these methods work helps in making informed choices about reproductive health.

Answer: Contraception includes methods to prevent fertilisation or pregnancy, such as barrier, hormonal, and surgical methods. It helps individuals control their reproductive health.

Question 1: Define a barrier method of contraception and give two examples.

Answer: A barrier method prevents sperm from reaching the egg; examples include condoms and diaphragms.

Question 2: Explain how hormonal contraceptives, such as the pill, prevent pregnancy.

Answer: Hormonal contraceptives release hormones that inhibit ovulation, thicken cervical mucus, and thin the uterine lining, preventing fertilisation and implantation.

Question 3: Identify one surgical method of contraception and describe its purpose.

Answer: Vasectomy or tubal ligation; they permanently block the sperm or egg pathways to prevent fertilisation.

Question 1: Describe how a condom prevents pregnancy.

Answer: A condom acts as a barrier that catches sperm and prevents it from entering the female reproductive system.

Question 2: Explain why hormonal methods have a lower failure rate compared to some natural methods.

Answer: Hormonal methods consistently release hormones that prevent ovulation, making them more reliable than natural methods which depend on behavioural factors.

Question 1: What is the typical failure rate of condoms in preventing pregnancy?

Answer: Approximately 13% per year with typical use.

Question 2: List two factors that can reduce the effectiveness of contraceptive methods.

Answer: Incorrect usage, inconsistent use, or using expired or damaged contraception.

Question 1: If 1000 women use condoms with a failure rate of 13% per year, how many women would become pregnant in one year?

Answer: 130 women

Question 1: Describe one safety precaution that should be taken when using hormonal contraceptives.

Answer: Follow the prescribed dosage and consult a healthcare professional to avoid side effects.

Question 2: Discuss one ethical or social issue related to the use of surgical contraception.

Answer: Ethical issues include informed consent, potential for irreversible sterilisation without full understanding, and access disparities. Social considerations involve gender roles and reproductive rights.

Question 1: Explain how contraceptive methods are used in family planning programmes.

Answer: Contraceptives are provided to allow couples to plan the timing and number of children, improving health and economic stability.

Question 2: Describe one technological advancement in contraception developed in recent years.

Answer: Development of long-acting reversible contraceptives (LARCs) like intrauterine devices (IUDs) with improved safety and effectiveness.