CBSE Class 10 Science 2017 · Paper 531/1 · Question 10

Four methods of contraception: (1) Barrier method: a condom on the penis, or a similar covering worn in the vagina, stops sperm from reaching the egg. (2) Oral pills: they change the hormonal balance of the body so that eggs are not released. (3) Loop or Copper-T: a device placed in the uterus to prevent pregnancy. (4) Surgical methods: vasectomy in the man (the vasa deferentia are blocked, so sperm are not transferred) or tubectomy in the woman (the fallopian tubes are blocked, so the egg cannot reach the uterus). Health of the family: whether the husband or the wife adopts a method, the couple can limit the number of children and space them. Fewer, well-spaced pregnancies protect the mother's health, and the family's income, food and care go further for each child, so the family stays healthier. A condom also gives some protection against sexually transmitted infections. Prosperity of the nation: small families slow the growth of the population, which reduces the pressure on food, water, housing, schools, health care and jobs; more resources for each person and a healthier, better-educated population help the nation to prosper.