CBSE Class 10 Science 2017 · Paper 31/1 · Question 13

Three techniques: (1) Barrier (mechanical) methods — a condom worn on the penis, or a similar covering worn in the vagina, stops sperms from reaching the egg. (2) Hormonal (chemical) methods — oral pills change the hormonal balance of a woman's body so that eggs are not released. (3) Surgical methods — the vas deferens of the male is blocked (vasectomy), or the fallopian tubes of the female are blocked (tubectomy). (Devices such as the loop or copper-T placed in the uterus are another technique.) Not meant for males: the oral pills, which stop the release of eggs by a woman's ovaries. (The copper-T, placed in the uterus, is also used only by women.) Impact on the family: Health — births can be spaced and limited, so the mother's body is not worn down by frequent pregnancies, which make major demands on a woman's body and mind; the condom also helps to prevent the spread of sexually transmitted infections between the partners. Prosperity — a small, planned family shares its income among fewer members, so each child can be given better food, health care and education, and the family's standard of living rises.