Summary
Methods that prevent pregnancy, including barriers, hormones and sterilisation.
In depth
Barrier (condoms, which also protect against STIs), hormonal (pills, patches, implants, injections, IUS), IUDs (copper), natural methods, sterilisation and emergency contraception. Effectiveness varies: typical use of pill about 93 percent, perfect use over 99 percent.
Methods work by preventing ovulation, fertilisation or implantation. Condoms are the only method also protecting against STIs. Effectiveness depends on correct use.
Key idea: no method is 100 percent effective except abstinence.
Frequently asked questions
What is Contraception?
Methods that prevent pregnancy, including barriers, hormones and sterilisation.
Which area of biology covers Contraception, and how advanced is it?
Contraception is one of the 54 topics in Reproduction & Endocrinology. It is rated Beginner, so it suits learners who are starting out in biology. Related topics in this area include Contraceptive Pharmacology, Hormonal Control of the Menstrual Cycle, Implantation.
Can you give an example of Contraception?
The combined pill prevents ovulation via negative feedback.
What should I learn before Contraception?
Contraception is a Beginner topic, so no earlier topic is required. Other Beginner topics in Reproduction & Endocrinology that pair well with it include Reproduction, Asexual Reproduction, Sexual Reproduction.
What topics are related to Contraception?
The closest topics to Contraception are Contraceptive Pharmacology, Hormonal Control of the Menstrual Cycle, Implantation, Menstrual Cycle. Comparing them side by side is a good way to see how the ideas connect.
How can I check that I understand Contraception?
Read the summary and the in-depth section, then use the quick check on the interactive lesson for Contraception. To practise the whole of Reproduction & Endocrinology, use the Reproduction & Endocrinology quiz.
How is Contraception different from Contraceptive Pharmacology?
Contraception: Methods that prevent pregnancy, including barriers, hormones and sterilisation. Contraceptive Pharmacology: Hormonal contraceptives suppress ovulation using synthetic oestrogen and progestins. Read both side by side and note what each one explains.
How should I study Contraception step by step?
First, read the summary and write the definition in your own words. Second, read the in-depth section and note any example. Third, compare it with Contraceptive Pharmacology and explain the difference aloud. Finally, take the Reproduction & Endocrinology quiz and come back to this page for any question you miss.