(a) List Three Different Categories of Contraception Methods. (b) Why Has the Government of India Prohibited Prenatal Sex Determination by Law? State Its Benefits in The Long Run. (c) Unsafe Sexual Act Can Lead to Various Infections. Name Two Bacterial and Two Viral Infections Caused Due to Unsafe Sex.

Introduction

Contraception is a method used to prevent pregnancy. There are several methods of contraception, and choosing the right one can depend on various factors such as personal preference, health conditions, and lifestyle.

In this article, we will discuss three different categories of contraception methods, why the Government of India prohibited prenatal sex determination by law, and the infections caused due to unsafe sex.

Category 1: Barrier Methods

Barrier methods work by preventing the sperm from reaching the egg. They include male and female condoms, diaphragms, and cervical caps. These methods are easy to use, readily available, and offer protection against sexually transmitted infections (STIs). However, they require consistent and correct use, which can be a challenge for some people.

Male condoms are made of latex or polyurethane, and they are worn on the penis during sex. They are effective in preventing pregnancy and STIs, but they can break or slip off, reducing their effectiveness. Female condoms are made of polyurethane and are worn inside the vagina. They provide protection against pregnancy and STIs but can be difficult to insert and remove.

Diaphragms and cervical caps are placed inside the vagina and cover the cervix, preventing sperm from reaching the egg. They are effective when used with spermicide and can be left in place for up to 24 hours. However, they require proper fitting by a healthcare provider and consistent use.

Category 2: Hormonal Methods

Hormonal methods work by preventing ovulation or thickening the cervical mucus, making it difficult for sperm to reach the egg. They include birth control pills, patches, injections, and vaginal rings. These methods are highly effective in preventing pregnancy, but they can have side effects such as weight gain, mood changes, and headaches.

Birth control pills are taken daily and contain hormones that prevent ovulation. They are 99% effective in preventing pregnancy when taken correctly, but missing a pill or taking it at the wrong time can reduce their effectiveness. Patches, injections, and vaginal rings work similarly to birth control pills, but they are administered differently.

Category 3: Long-Acting Methods

Long-acting methods provide long-term protection against pregnancy and require little to no maintenance. They include intrauterine devices (IUDs) and contraceptive implants. These methods are highly effective in preventing pregnancy, but they can have side effects such as irregular bleeding and discomfort during insertion.

IUDs are small, T-shaped devices that are inserted into the uterus. They can be hormonal or non-hormonal and can remain in place for up to 10 years, depending on the type. Contraceptive implants are small rods that are inserted under the skin of the upper arm. They release hormones that prevent ovulation and can remain in place for up to three years.

Why Has the Government of India Prohibited Prenatal Sex Determination by Law?

In India, prenatal sex determination is prohibited by law under the Pre-Conception and Pre-Natal Diagnostic Techniques (PCPNDT) Act, 1994. The act was implemented to prevent sex-selective abortions, which have led to a skewed sex ratio in the country. The act prohibits the use of any technique that can determine the sex of the fetus, including ultrasound and amniocentesis.

The benefits of prohibiting prenatal sex determination are numerous. It helps to prevent female foeticide, which is the practice of selectively aborting female foetuses due to a preference for male children. This practice has led to a severe gender imbalance in India, with an estimated 63 million missing women. The act also promotes gender equality and women's rights, ensuring that every child, regardless of gender, has an equal opportunity to live and thrive.

Unsafe Sexual Acts Can Lead to Various Infections. Two Bacterial and Two Viral Infections Caused Due to Unsafe Sex:

Unsafe sexual acts can lead to various infections, both bacterial and viral. Here are two examples of each:

Bacterial Infections

Chlamydia - Chlamydia is a common bacterial infection that can be transmitted through vaginal, anal, or oral sex. It can cause pain during sex, abnormal vaginal discharge, and a burning sensation while urinating. If left untreated, it can lead to serious complications such as pelvic inflammatory disease (PID) and infertility.

Gonorrhoea - Gonorrhoea is another bacterial infection that can be transmitted through sexual contact. It can cause similar symptoms to chlamydia, including painful urination and abnormal discharge. If left untreated, it can lead to complications such as PID and infertility.

Viral Infections

Human Papillomavirus (HPV) - HPV is a viral infection that is transmitted through skin-to-skin contact during sexual activity. It can cause genital warts and is also a leading cause of cervical cancer. There is no cure for HPV, but there is a vaccine that can prevent some strains of the virus.

Herpes Simplex Virus (HSV) - HSV is a viral infection that is transmitted through skin-to-skin contact during sexual activity. It can cause painful blisters or sores on the genitals or mouth. There is no cure for HSV, but antiviral medications can help to manage symptoms and reduce the risk of transmission.

Conclusion

Contraception methods are essential in preventing unwanted pregnancies and protecting against sexually transmitted infections. There are various methods available, and choosing the right one can depend on personal preference, health conditions, and lifestyle.

Barrier methods, hormonal methods, and long-acting methods are the three main categories of contraception. Each method has its benefits and drawbacks, and it is important to discuss options with a healthcare provider to determine the best fit.