Give reasons why a woman should avoid frequent pregnancies. Explain the following methods of contraception giving one example of each.

(i) Barrier method


(ii) Chemical method

Pregnancy is a very complex process. It includes a the very long period of around 9-10 months. A woman has to suffer a lot of hormonal changes during this period and also her inner body needs recovery after one pregnancy because it has undergone a lot of wear and tear during fetal development and mostly during labor.

According to doctors, there should be a gap of 3 years between subsequent pregnancies.


In order to prevent unwanted pregnancy, Contraceptives should be used.


i) Barrier method includes preventing the entry of sperms inside the vagina, so that it cannot fertilize the egg. This includes the use of condoms which are available for both males and females. cervical caps, IUD'S are some examples of barrier method.


ii) Chemical methods involve using chemicals in order to either kill the sperms or making the surroundings inhospitable for them. These mostly contain acids or some salts such as lactic acid, or potassium permanganate. E.g. - Tablets (unwanted 72), jellies, creams and pastes.


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