Control of fertility

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Controlling fertility

Fertility can be managed using a range of hormonal and non-hormonal methods of contraception. Each method has its benefits and drawbacks, and it's important to evaluate them.

Hormonal methods of contraception

Oral Contraceptives (the Pill):
- These pills contain hormones that inhibit FSH production, which prevents eggs from maturing.
- There are different types, such as combined pills with oestrogen and progestogen and progestogen-only pills.
Progesterone Injections, Implants, and Patches:
- These are long-acting methods, releasing progesterone slowly to prevent egg maturation and release. Effects can last for months or even years, depending on the method.
Intrauterine Devices (IUDs):
- There are two types:
  - Hormonal IUDs release hormones that prevent the implantation of an embryo.
  - Non-hormonal IUDs (also called coils) prevent implantation by creating an environment that sperm cannot survive in.
Fertility Drugs:
- In cases where a woman has low levels of FSH or LH, these hormones can be administered as a fertility treatment to stimulate the maturation and release of eggs.

Non-hormonal methods of contraception

Barrier Methods:
- Condoms and diaphragms physically prevent sperm from reaching an egg. Condoms are widely used, protect against sexually transmitted infections (STIs), and are effective when used correctly.
- Diaphragms are used with spermicidal agents to kill or disable sperm.
Spermicidal Agents:
- These are chemicals that kill or disable sperm and can be used alongside other methods, such as diaphragms, for added protection.
Abstinence:
- Avoiding intercourse during the time when an egg may be present in the oviduct is a natural method, but it requires precise timing and is not always reliable.
Surgical Methods (Sterilisation):
- Male Sterilisation (Vasectomy): The sperm ducts are cut and sealed to prevent sperm from entering the semen.
- Female Sterilisation (Tubal Ligation): The fallopian tubes are blocked or sealed to prevent eggs from reaching the uterus.

Evaluation of contraception methods

When choosing a contraception method, it’s essential to consider factors such as effectiveness, side effects, cost, and convenience. Hormonal methods can effectively prevent pregnancy but may have side effects, while non-hormonal methods offer alternatives without hormonal interference but may be less reliable.

Treating infertility with hormones (Higher tier only)

Hormones are also used to increase fertility for those who have difficulty conceiving:

Fertility Drugs:
- A combination of FSH and LH can be given to stimulate the ovaries, promoting the maturation and release of eggs, which may increase the chance of pregnancy.
In Vitro Fertilisation (IVF):
- IVF is a process that helps infertile couples conceive:
  1. The mother is given FSH and LH to stimulate the release of multiple eggs.
  2. Eggs are collected from the ovaries and fertilised with sperm in a lab.
  3. The fertilised eggs grow into embryos, and one or two are implanted into the mother’s uterus.
- IVF offers a chance to have a baby, but it can be emotionally and physically challenging, has a moderate success rate, and may lead to multiple births, which carry risks for both the mother and babies.

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