(a) Define contraceptives. List characteristics of an ideal contraceptive. (b) Discuss the role of oral pills in birth control. (c) Name a hormone-releasing IUD.

Explanation

(a) A Contraceptive is a drug or device or practice to prevent a woman from becoming pregnant.
(b) Oral pills are hormones-containing pills taken through mouth for contraception. These are called .combined pills. as these are combinations of synthetic progestins and estrogens. These pills inhibit the secretion of SH and LH from anterior pituitary so inhibit the ovulation from the ovary and implantation. These also change the quality of cervical mucus which retards the entry of sperms into uterus. Commonly used oral pills are: Mala-D (taken daily) and Saheli (taken once in a week).
(c) Hormone releasing IUD: LNG-20