QuestionSBA
QuestionChoice
Barrier contraception such as condoms work by preventing the sperm from entering the female genital tract and therefore preventing fertilisation of the female ovum. It does not describe the mechanism of action of the POP.
10008046
b
Prevents sperm entering the vagina
QuestionChoice
This is the main mechanism of action of the intrauterine system (IUS), which also contains progesterone. It does not describe the mechanism of action of the POP.
10008049
e
Prevents endometrial proliferation
QuestionChoice
This is the main mechanism of action of the POP. Some third generation POPs also inhibit ovulation. The other options are mechanisms of action of other contraceptive methods.
10008045
a
Thickens cervical mucus
QuestionChoice
Spermicides are non-hormonal contraceptives that work by decreasing sperm motility and survival. They come as either a diaphragm or a cap that can be inserted into the female genital tract. This option does not describe the mechanism of action of the POP.
10008048
d
Decreases sperm motility and survival
QuestionChoice
This answer refers to the mechanism of action of the copper intrauterine device (IUD). The copper is toxic to both sperm and egg, therefore preventing implantation. This does not describe the mechanism of action of the POP.
10008047
c
Toxic to sperm and ovum
Concept
Chapter
2693
4639
Progesterone only Pill
Topic
162
General practice
14156
A 17-year-old girl visits the GP looking for contraceptive advice. She is currently using barrier contraception with her partner but she would like to start using another method of contraception. She has a history of migraines with aura, making the combined oral contraceptive pill unsuitable. The GP, therefore, offers her the progesteron-only pill (POP).

Which of the following best describes the mechanism of action of the POP?
a