Contraception
Hormonal contraception
Human The ability to reproduce. is controlled by Chemical messenger produced in glands and carried by the blood to specific organs in the body., so fertility can be controlled using hormonal forms of Any form of birth control used to prevent pregnancy..
The oral contraceptive, which is known as the pill, contains A female sex hormone produced in the ovaries, which is responsible for puberty in girls and the regulation of the menstrual cycle. or Sex hormone produced by the ovaries and placenta.. These hormones prevent the production of Follicle Stimulating Hormone. It stimulates oestrogen production and the growth of follicles (egg-sacs) in the ovary. It is secreted by the pituitary gland., so eggs cannot mature.
Benefits and risks of hormonal contraception
Oral contraceptives are more than 99% effective if taken correctly and can reduce the risk of certain cancers.
However, there are possible side effects, such as changes in weight, mood and blood pressure due to high levels of oestrogen. Modern pills contain much less oestrogen.
Contraceptive injections, implants or skin patches contain slow release progesterone to prevent the maturation and release of eggs.
Non-hormonal contraception
Fertility can be controlled without hormones.
These methods include:
- physical barrier methods such as condoms and diaphragms, which prevent the sperm reaching an egg
- intrauterine devices (IUD) also known as a coil, prevent the implantation of an embryo or release of a hormone
- spermicidal agents which kill or disable sperm
- The practice of restraining oneself from indulgence - for example, not drinking alcohol. from intercourse when an egg may be in the oviduct
- surgical methods of male and female sterilisation, eg a vasectomy, where the sperm ducts are cut and tied
Benefits and risks of non-hormonal contraception
- Condoms are easy and quick to use, but sometimes they can tear or rip.
- Diaphragms need to be put in just before sex and left in several hours afterwards.
- IUDs need to be fitted by a health professional. IUDs can remain in position for up to 10 years. However, there is a small risk of causing an ectopic pregnancy, which leads to complications for both the mother and the foetus.
- Spermicidal agents can be added to other physical barriers such as condoms, but some people can have allergic reactions to these.
- Abstaining can be used successfully, but if the timings are not accurate, the chance of pregnancy is high.
- Surgical methods cannot be reversed, and is considered permanent.