MP Board · Class 12 · Biology · Reproductive HealthWhat are the various methods of contraception available? Explain any three permanent methods and three temporary methods in detail.

Introduction to Contraception\nContraception refers to the intentional prevention of conception or pregnancy through the use of various devices, drugs, methods, or surgical procedures. An ideal contraceptive should be user-friendly, easily available, effective, and reversible with least or no side-effects. It should in no way interfere with the sexual drive, desire, and/or the sexual act of the user.

Temporary Methods of Contraception\nTemporary methods are reversible and used to space children or delay pregnancy. Three important temporary methods are:

• Natural/Behavioral Methods: These methods work on the principle of avoiding chances of ovum and sperm meeting. Periodic abstinence (avoiding coitus from day 10 to 17 of the menstrual cycle when ovulation is expected), withdrawal or coitus interruptus (withdrawal of the penis before ejaculation), and lactational amenorrhea (absence of menstruation during intense lactation following parturition) are examples.
• Barrier Methods: In these methods, ovum and sperms are prevented from physically meeting with the help of barriers. Condoms are barriers made of thin rubber/latex sheath used to cover the penis in males or vagina and cervix in females. Diaphragms, cervical caps, and vaults are rubber barriers inserted into the female reproductive tract to cover the cervix.
• Intra Uterine Devices (IUDs): These devices are inserted by expert doctors or nurses through the cervix into the uterus. They include non-medicated IUDs (e.g., Lippes loop), copper releasing IUDs (CuT, Cu7, Multiload 375) which suppress sperm motility and fertilizing capacity, and hormone releasing IUDs (Progestasert, LNG-20) which make the uterus unsuitable for implantation and cervix hostile to sperms.

Permanent Methods of Contraception (Sterilization)\nPermanent methods, also known as surgical methods, are advised for male and female partners as a terminal method to prevent any more pregnancies. These are highly effective but reversibility is very poor. Two main surgical methods are:

• Vasectomy: This is the sterilization procedure for males. In this method, a small part of the vas deferens is removed or tied up through a small incision on the scrotum, thereby blocking the transport of sperms.
• Tubectomy: This is the sterilization procedure for females. In this method, a small part of the fallopian tube is removed or tied up through a small incision in the abdomen or through vagina, thus blocking the passage of the ovum.
• Tubal Implantation/Reversibility Failure Note: Though surgical methods are considered permanent, vasectomy and tubectomy block the respective gamete pathways successfully.