What are the different methods of contraception?
Contraception refers to methods used to avoid pregnancy, and there are several categories of contraceptive methods.
Mechanical barriers are one category where devices create a barrier so that sperm does not reach the egg. Condoms worn on the penis or similar coverings worn in the vagina serve this purpose effectively.
Hormonal methods act by changing the hormonal balance of the body so that eggs are not released and fertilisation cannot occur. These drugs are commonly taken orally as pills. However, since they change hormonal balances, they can cause side-effects too.
Intrauterine devices such as the loop or the copper-T are placed in the uterus to prevent pregnancy. These devices can cause side effects due to irritation of the uterus.
Surgical methods involve creating blocks in the reproductive system. If the vas deferens in the male is blocked, sperm transfer is prevented. If the fallopian tube in the female is blocked, the egg cannot reach the uterus. In both cases, fertilisation does not occur. While surgical methods are safe in the long run, surgery itself can cause infections and other problems if not performed properly.
Explanation
This answer is based on the NCERT textbook content which categorizes contraceptive methods into four main types: mechanical barriers (condoms), hormonal methods (oral pills), intrauterine devices (copper-T, loop), and surgical methods (blocking vas deferens or fallopian tubes). The answer follows the textbook structure and includes all key points about how each method works and their potential side effects.