Contraception: Hormonal and Non-Hormonal Methods — AQA GCSE Biology
Contraception is used to prevent pregnancy. Methods are either hormonal or non-hormonal, and each has advantages and disadvantages.
Hormonal methods
These use hormones to prevent the maturation or release of eggs:
- Oral contraceptive (the pill) — contains oestrogen and/or progesterone to inhibit FSH so eggs do not mature.
- Injection, implant or patch — slow-release progesterone that lasts months to years.
Hormonal methods are very effective but can have side effects and do not protect against STIs.
Non-hormonal methods
- Barrier methods — condoms and diaphragms prevent sperm reaching the egg. Condoms also protect against STIs.
- Intrauterine devices (IUDs) — prevent implantation or release hormones.
- Spermicides — kill or disable sperm.
- Abstinence — avoiding intercourse, especially when an egg may be present.
- Surgical sterilisation — cutting or tying the sperm or egg ducts (permanent).
Evaluating methods
You should be able to evaluate methods considering effectiveness, side effects, protection against STIs, ease of use and whether they are permanent.
Exam tips
- Hormonal methods usually work by inhibiting FSH so eggs don't mature.
- Only barrier methods (condoms) protect against STIs.
- Learn examples of both hormonal and non-hormonal methods.
- Be ready to evaluate and compare methods.