Reproductive Health

Notes

1. Introduction

Reproductive health refers to the complete physical, mental, emotional, and social well-being related to the reproductive system. It means that people have a safe and satisfying reproductive life and can reproduce responsibly.

Objectives of Reproductive Health

Ensure healthy reproductive life.

Prevent sexually transmitted infections (STIs).

Promote family planning.

Control population growth.

Provide reproductive education and awareness.

2. Reproductive Health Programmes in India

The Government of India launched several programmes to improve reproductive health.

Reproductive and Child Health (RCH) Programme

Launched: 1997

Objectives

Maternal healthcare

Child healthcare

Family planning

Immunization

Safe delivery

Prevention of STIs

Sex education

Importance

Reduces maternal mortality.

Reduces infant mortality.

Increases awareness about reproductive health.

3. Population Explosion

Population explosion refers to a rapid increase in the human population over a short period.

Causes

Decline in death rate

Improved medical facilities

Increased life expectancy

Better nutrition

Reduced infant mortality

Effects

Unemployment

Poverty

Food shortage

Environmental pollution

Pressure on natural resources

4. Birth Control (Contraception)

Contraception means prevention of pregnancy by preventing fertilization or implantation.

Characteristics of an Ideal Contraceptive

Easily available

User-friendly

Effective

Reversible

Minimal side effects

Affordable

5. Methods of Contraception

A. Natural Methods

No medicines or devices are used.

(i) Periodic Abstinence

Avoid sexual intercourse during the fertile period (approximately days 10–17 of a 28-day menstrual cycle).

(ii) Withdrawal Method (Coitus Interruptus)

The penis is withdrawn before ejaculation to prevent sperm entry into the female reproductive tract.

(iii) Lactational Amenorrhea (LAM)

Breastfeeding suppresses ovulation after childbirth.

Effective only:

Up to 6 months after delivery

If menstruation has not resumed

If the baby is exclusively breastfed

B. Barrier Methods

Prevent sperm from reaching the ovum.

Male Condom

Prevents pregnancy.

Protects against STIs, including HIV/AIDS.

Female Condom

Worn inside the vagina.

Prevents fertilization and reduces STI transmission.

Diaphragm

Dome-shaped rubber cup placed over the cervix.

Cervical Cap

Covers the cervix to block sperm entry.

Vault

Similar function to diaphragm.

Advantages

Easy to use

No…