Describe the different methods of contraception, giving one example of each and how it works.
How to lay out the answer. Follow the frame, then write it in your own words.
1 · Introduce in one line. Contraceptive methods prevent pregnancy by stopping ovulation, stopping the sperm and ovum from meeting, or preventing implantation.
2 · Natural methods. Periodic abstinence (no coitus on days 10 to 17), withdrawal, and lactational amenorrhea (up to 6 months after delivery).
3 · Barrier methods. Condoms (which also protect against STIs), diaphragms, cervical caps and vaults, used with spermicides.
4 · IUDs. Lippes loop, CuT, Cu7, Multiload 375, Progestasert, LNG-20; they increase phagocytosis of sperms, Cu ions reduce sperm motility, and hormones make the uterus unsuitable for implantation.
5 · Oral pills, injections and implants. Progestogen or progestogen-estrogen pills (21 days, then a 7-day gap), injections and implants inhibit ovulation and implantation; Saheli is a non-steroidal weekly pill; emergency use within 72 hours.
6 · Surgical methods. Vasectomy and tubectomy block the transport of gametes; highly effective but poorly reversible.
7 · Link to daily life. Health centres provide condoms, pills and the Copper-T; a method should be chosen with a doctor's advice.
8 · Close in one line. So each method breaks a different step between ovulation and implantation.
Scoring tip: For each method, write an example and how it works in one line. A list of names alone earns only half the marks.
