(a) Write about the various structures of female’s external genitalia.
(b) Explain any two methods of natural contraception.

Explanation

(a) Mons pubis is a cushion of fatty tissue covered by skin and pubic hair.
The labia majora are fleshy folds of tissue, which extend down from the mons pubis and surround the vaginal opening.
The labia minora are paired folds of tissue under the labia majora.
The opening of the vagina is often covered partially by a membrane called hymen.
The clitoris is a tiny finger-like structure which lies at the upper junction of the two labia minora above the urethral opening.
(b) (i) Periodic abstinence is a method in which the couples avoid or abstain from coitus from day 10 to 17 of the menstrual cycle when ovulation could be expected. As chances of fertilisation are very high during this period, it is called the fertile period. Therefore, by abstaining from coitus during this period, conception could be prevented.
(ii) Withdrawal or coitus interruptus is a method in which the male partner withdraws his penis from the vagina just before ejaculation so as to avoid insemination.
(iii) Lactational amenorrhea (absence of menstruation) method is based on the fact that ovulation and therefore the cycle do not occur during the period of intense lactation following parturition. Therefore, as long as the mother breast-feeds the child fully, chances of conception are almost nil. However, this method has been reported to be effective only upto a maximum period of six months following parturition.