Question

What are contraceptive pills? How do they function?

Hint:

Mnemonic: \textbf{O.M.E.} = \underline{O}vulation off, \underline{M}ucus thick, \underline{E}ndometrium hostile. Yeh teen points likh do — full marks!

Answer 1

Step 1: Definition \& types.
Contraceptive pills oral medicines hoti hain jo pregnancy ko prevent karti hain. Aam taur par:
(i) Combined pill — low-dose estrogen + progestin.
(ii) Progestin-only “mini-pill”.
(iii) Non-steroidal pill (e.g., Centchroman/“Saheli”).
Step 2: Primary mechanism (No ovulation).
Estrogen–progestin hypothalamus/pituitary par negative feedback dete hain $\Rightarrow$ LH surge suppress hota hai $\Rightarrow$ ovulation nahi hoti.
Step 3: Additional mechanisms.
(a) Cervical mucus thickening — sperm penetration mushkil.
(b) Endometrium ko less receptive banana — implantation ke chances kam.
(c) Tubal motility me change — gamete transport affected.
Step 4: Use (typical regimens).
Combined pills: cycle ke Day-5 se 21 din tak daily; 7-day pill-free/placebo interval, phir next pack.
Emergency pills (high-dose levonorgestrel) intercourse ke 72 ghante ke andar — mainly ovulation delay/inhibition.
Step 5: Conclusion.
Oral pills ka core action ovulation ko rokhna hai; saath hi mucus thicken karke aur endometrium ko hostile bana kar fertilization/implantation ko bhi reduce karti hain.