Chapter 10: Fertility, Contraception, and Abortion

Ovulatory Shift Hypothesis

Suggests that changes occur during ovulation to increase the likelihood of conception with a mate possessing good genes.

Lap Dancers Study

Lap dancers earned more in tips during ovulation, less during non-fertile times, and even less on their period due to perceived sexiness.

Face Study

Research found that composite faces created from women during ovulation were rated as more attractive.

Vocal Pitch

Research indicates that women's vocal pitch may rise during ovulation.

Scent Study

Men rated the scents of women's shirts as more pleasant and sexy during ovulation.

Fill in the Blank Study

Study showed more access to sexual cues after smelling ovulatory scent.

Clothing Choices During Ovulation

Women tend to wear more revealing or red clothing during ovulation to attract attention.

Shopping Study

During ovulation, women shopping online for sexier clothes were influenced by the presence of a local rival.

Short-term Mating Preferences

Women show a preference for short-term mating with highly masculine, confident men during ovulation.

Increased Libido During Ovulation

Women experience heightened libido but also greater caution against risky sexual situations.

Premenstrual Syndrome (PMS)

Refers to emotional and physical discomfort that accompanies menstruation.

Premenstrual Dysphoric Disorder (PMDD)

A severe form of PMS that can significantly affect a woman's quality of life.

Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT)

An effective treatment for improving symptoms of both PMS and PMDD.

Menopause

The permanent cessation of ovulation and menstruation.

Types of Contraception

Includes behavioral, barrier, hormonal, and sterilization methods.

CREL

Condom Related Erection Loss, a phenomenon affecting men's sexual performance.

Psychological Effects of Hormonal Contraception

Can include physical/emotional changes, altered sexual behaviors, and minimized ovulatory shift symptoms.

Planned Pregnancy Benefits

Planned pregnancies are linked to better maternal health and psychosocial adjustment.

Abortion Statistics

Approximately 30% of US women will have an abortion before age 45.

Comstock Laws

Laws passed in the 1870s that banned the distribution of explicit pornographic material and contraceptive pamphlets.

Margaret Sanger

Founder of what would become Planned Parenthood.

Abortion Methods: Medical

Involves taking medication to induce an abortion, usually within 7-9 weeks from the last period.

Abortion Methods: Surgical

Includes procedures like curette and dilation and evacuation for removing the embryo or fetus.

Abortion Effects

72% of women report satisfaction with their abortion decision; dissatisfaction often linked to a history of mental health issues.

Abortion Stigma

Studies show abortion seekers often feel ostracized by their community, leading to higher rates of regret or depression.

Abortion Exceptions

General criteria exist for abortion exceptions related to maternal health and fetal anomalies, but are often vague.