This definitions covers Key Definitions within Contraception for GCSE Biology. Topic 9: Contraception It is section 6 of 12 in this topic. Make sure you can use the exact wording confidently, because definition marks are often lost through vague language.
Topic position
Section 6 of 12
Practice
15 questions
Recall
20 flashcards
Key Definitions
Contraception: Any method used to prevent pregnancy by stopping fertilisation, ovulation, or implantation.
Hormonal contraception: Contraception that uses synthetic hormones (oestrogen and/or progesterone) to prevent pregnancy, typically by inhibiting FSH and thus preventing egg maturation.
Barrier method: A non-hormonal contraceptive that physically prevents sperm from reaching the egg (e.g., condoms, diaphragms).
IUD (intrauterine device): A small device placed inside the uterus to prevent pregnancy; copper IUDs are toxic to sperm; hormonal IUDs release progesterone.
FSH (follicle-stimulating hormone): A hormone from the pituitary gland that causes eggs to mature in the ovaries; inhibited by the oestrogen in hormonal contraceptives.
Oestrogen: A female sex hormone produced by the ovaries; in contraceptive pills it inhibits FSH, preventing egg maturation.
Progesterone: A hormone that maintains the uterus lining; in contraceptives it thickens cervical mucus and may suppress ovulation.