Contraceptives & STDs

What hormones are included in combined hormonal contraceptives?

Both synthetic estrogen and progesterone.

What are examples of combined hormonal contraceptives?

Combination OCPs, patch, vaginal ring.

What is the standard exposure cycle for combined contraceptives?

Three weeks of estrogen/progestin exposure followed by one hormone-free week.

How do combined hormonal contraceptives prevent pregnancy?

They impair folliculogenesis and inhibit ovulation.

How do combined contraceptives affect the endometrium?

Exposure induces endometrial development; removal induces menses.

Are combined hormonal contraceptives reversible?

Yes, rapidly reversible and user-controlled.

What is the typical use failure rate of combined hormonal contraceptives?

7% (highest failure rate due to misuse).

Who are progestin-only contraceptives intended for?

Those with contraindications to estrogen.

What are examples of progestin-only contraceptives?

Progestin-only pill (mini-pill/POPs) and injections (every 3 months).

How does progestin exposure affect the reproductive tract?

It thickens cervical mucus, impairs endometrial development, and prevents ovulation to variable degrees (50-90% of cycles).

Are progestin-only contraceptives reversible?

Yes, rapidly reversible (user-controlled or time-dependent).

What is the typical use failure rate of progestin-only contraceptives?

4-9%.

What is a common issue with low-dose progestin-only contraceptives?

Unpredictable bleeding.

What are longer-acting reversible contraceptives (LARC)?

Devices providing contraception for up to 12 years.

What are examples of LARC?

Intra-uterine devices (IUDs) and subcutaneous implants.

What is required for obtaining LARC?

Access to healthcare professionals for insertion.

What does a hormonal IUD release and for how long?

Progestin, effective for up to 7 years.

What are the mechanisms of the hormonal IUD?

Thickens cervical mucus, thins uterine lining, and may prevent ovulation.

What is the function of the copper IUD and how long does it last?

Provides a mechanical barrier for up to 12 years.

How does the copper IUD prevent pregnancy?

Blocks sperm from reaching and fertilizing the egg and prevents implantation.

Does the copper IUD inhibit ovulation?

No, it does not inhibit ovulation.

What are hormonal implants and how long do they last?

Matchstick-sized rods releasing progestin for up to 3 years.

What is the mechanism of hormonal implants?

Same as other progestin-containing contraceptives (thickens mucus, thins endometrium, may inhibit ovulation).

What is the typical use failure rate of IUDs and implants?

Less than 1%.

What is the most effective form of emergency contraception?

IUD insertion within 5 days of unprotected sex.

How effective is an IUD as emergency contraception?

Reduces pregnancy likelihood by more than 99%.

When should morning-after pills be taken?

Within 5 days of unprotected sex.

How effective are morning-after pills?

Reduce pregnancy likelihood by 75-90%, most effective within 3 days.

What is levonorgestrel (LNG)?

A synthetic progestin used in emergency contraception.

How does levonorgestrel prevent pregnancy?

Blocks the LH surge and delays ovulation.

In whom is levonorgestrel less effective?

Individuals weighing more than 155 lbs.

What is ulipristal acetate?

A progesterone receptor modulator used for emergency contraception.

How does ulipristal acetate work?

Blocks LH surge and ovulation.

In whom is ulipristal more effective than LNG?

More effective in individuals weighing more than 155 lbs.

In whom is ulipristal less effective?

Individuals weighing more than 195 lbs.

Who is at risk for sexually transmitted infections (STIs)?

Anyone engaging in oral, anal, or vaginal sex.

What organism causes Trichomoniasis and can it be cured?

Trichomonas vaginalis (a protozoan parasite); yes, cured with antibiotics.

What causes Syphilis and can it be cured?

Treponema pallidum (bacteria); cured with antibiotics but existing damage cannot be undone.

What causes genital HPV infection and can it be cured?

Human papillomavirus; cannot be cured but symptoms such as warts can be treated.

What causes Gonorrhea and what is a major concern?

Neisseria gonorrhoeae (bacteria); increasing antibiotic-resistant strains.

What causes Chlamydia and can it be cured?

Chlamydia trachomatis (bacteria); cured with antibiotics.

What is HIV and what happens if it is untreated?

Human immunodeficiency virus; progresses to AIDS (acquired immunodeficiency syndrome) if untreated.

What are the most common STDs among college-age individuals?

Chlamydia, gonorrhea, syphilis, and human papillomavirus (HPV).

Why is young adulthood a high-risk period for STDs?

Peak time for binge drinking, multiple sex partners, unprotected sex, and unintended pregnancy.

How have dating apps influenced STD rates among college students?

They have become a major driver in the increased contraction of STDs.

Why are STIs increasing among older adults?

Use of Viagra, lack of condom use (no pregnancy risk), mid-life divorce, reduced screening, and similar factors.