Question

A contraceptive that physically blocks the sperm from reaching the egg is a

a) hormonal method.
b) natural method.
c) barrier method.
d) surgical method.

Answer 1

A contraceptive that physically blocks sperm from reaching the egg, such as condoms or diaphragms, is known as a barrier method. While hormonal methods are generally more effective for preventing pregnancy, barrier methods also provide protection against sexually transmitted infections.

Step-by-step explanation:

The contraceptive that physically blocks sperm from reaching the egg is known as a c) barrier method. This type of contraception involves devices such as condoms or diaphragms that serve to prevent sperm from entering the uterus and thereby obstruct fertilization. Barrier methods are distinct from hormonal methods, which use hormones to prevent ovulation or alter the cervical mucus, and from surgical methods like sterilization, which require medical procedures to prevent the release of eggs or sperm.

When comparing the effectiveness of short term contraceptive methods, hormonal methods are generally more effective than barrier methods. However, barrier methods like condoms are the only birth control that can also prevent the spread of sexually transmitted infections in addition to preventing pregnancy.

Answer 2

A contraceptive that physically blocks sperm from reaching the egg is called a barrier method. This includes devices like condoms and diaphragms, which are less effective than hormonal methods but also protect against STIs. Surgical methods are the most effective but are irreversible and require surgery.

Step-by-step explanation:

A contraceptive that physically blocks the sperm from reaching the egg is known as a c) barrier method. Barrier methods are devices that prevent sperm from entering the uterus and include options like condoms and diaphragms. Not only do they prevent pregnancy, but of all contraceptive methods, condoms are unique in that they can also prevent the spread of sexually transmitted infections (STIs).

When considering the effectiveness of short-term contraceptive methods, barrier methods are generally less effective than hormonal methods, with typical-use failure rates indicating that 18 out of 100 individuals using barrier methods may get pregnant in a twelve-month period. Hormonal methods tend to have lower failure rates due to the consistency in preventing ovulation or creating an inhospitable environment for sperm.

Surgical methods like sterilization are the most effective forms of contraception, but they are irreversible and require a surgical procedure. Therefore, for individuals seeking a non-permanent solution, barrier methods can be an appropriate choice for preventing pregnancy, especially when combined with spermicidal chemicals to lower failure rates.