Controlling Fertility

• What is the primary purpose of contraception?

  To prevent sperm from reaching the egg
• How does oestrogen function as a contraceptive?

  It prevents the release of an egg
• What effect does high oestrogen levels have on FSH production?

  It inhibits the production of FSH
• What role does progesterone play in contraception?

  It stimulates thick mucus production
• What is the combined oral contraceptive pill composed of?

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

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

  Headaches and nausea
• What is a key feature of the progesterone-only pill?

  Fewer side effects than the combined pill
• What are the different hormonal contraception methods?

  • Contraceptive patch: releases oestrogen and progesterone
  • Contraceptive implant: releases continuous progesterone
  • Contraceptive injection: contains progesterone, lasts 2-3 months
  • Intrauterine device (IUD): prevents sperm survival and implantation
• What is the function of condoms in contraception?

  To prevent sperm from entering the vagina
• What is the unique feature of condoms compared to other contraceptives?

  They protect against sexually transmitted diseases
• What is a diaphragm used for in contraception?

  To form a barrier over the cervix
• What must a diaphragm be used with to be effective?

  Spermicide
• What is the effectiveness rate of spermicide alone?

  70-80% effective
• What does sterilisation involve in females?

  Cutting or tying the fallopian tubes
• What is a natural method of contraception?

  Avoiding intercourse during fertile days
• What is the only method that guarantees no sperm and egg meeting?

  Abstinence
• What is the role of FSH and LH in fertility drugs?

  To stimulate ovulation
• What is a potential drawback of using fertility drugs?

  They may not always work
• What does IVF involve?

  Fertilising eggs in a lab with sperm
• What is ICSI in IVF?

  Sperm injected directly into an egg
• What happens to fertilised eggs in IVF?

  They are grown into embryos in a lab
• What is the purpose of transferring embryos to the uterus?

  To improve the chance of pregnancy
• What is a potential risk of multiple embryo transfers?

  Higher risk for mother and babies
• What is the average success rate of IVF in the UK?

  About 26%
• What are some physical reactions women may have to fertility treatments?

  Abdominal pain and vomiting
• What ethical concerns are associated with IVF?

  Destruction of unused embryos
• What is a concern regarding genetic testing of embryos?

  It may lead to selection of traits
• What is a common sentiment about fertility treatment?

  It can be hard on those involved