Q.1. Describe any three assisted reproductive techniques practised to treat infertility.
Answer- Assisted Reproductive Techniques refer to the medical procedures used to treat infertility. Few of the assisted reproductive techniques are:
- In-vitro Fertilization- In-vitro fertilization involves the steps:Stimulation of the ovaries by giving human gonadotropins ↓ Retrieving the released eggs ↓ Fertilization of the eggs with the selected sperms. ↓ Development of eggs into embryos under laboratory environment ↓ The embryos are implanted in the uterus of the female
- Intracytoplasmic Sperm Injection- In this method, one sperm is injected into the egg. But this procedure might damage the egg. The babies might involve defects in the reproductive organs in case of the abnormal Y chromosome.
- Gamete Intrafallopian Tube Transfer- This method is used in case of fallopian tubes that are functioning properly. In this technique, the eggs and sperms obtained are not fertilized in the laboratory. They are inserted into the far end of the fallopian tube either through the vagina or through the abdomen with the help of a laparoscope.
Q.2. What are the advantages and disadvantages of hormonal contraceptives?
Answer-
Advantages of hormonal contraceptives:
- This is a highly effective method of contraception.
- It can be used for a longer period.
- Causes very light or no menstruation.
- The effects are reversible
Disadvantages of hormonal contraceptives:
- It does not protect against sexually transmitted diseases.
- Minor surgery is required to insert and remove the device.
- It has several side-effects such as irregular menstruation, depression, weight gain, hair loss, etc.
- The capsule implanted area might get infected.
- It is necessary to take the medications continuously.
- The method is expensive.
Q.3. Explain any two sexually transmitted diseases and suggest ways to prevent them.
Answer- Sexually transmitted diseases are those that are transferred from one partner to another through sexual contact. Two sexually transmitted diseases are explained below:
1. AIDS– The Acquired Immunodeficiency Syndrome (AIDS) is caused by the Human Immunodeficiency Virus (HIV). This virus attacks the immune system of the host making him vulnerable to infections. It can be spread through semen, blood, breastmilk, and rectal or vaginal fluids.
2. Genital Herpes- Herpes is a chronic disease spread by the Herpes Simplex Virus (HSV). The HSV type 2 virus spreads the disease through sexual intercourse. A person suffering from genital herpes will show symptoms like fever, pain while urinating, vaginal discharge, red blisters on the genitals, etc.
Prevention of Sexually Transmitted Diseases:
- Use protection during sexual intercourse.
- Get vaccinated for Hepatitis and Human Papillomavirus
- Get tested for HIV
- Abstain from sexual activities
- Do not share the underclothings and towels.
Q.4. Justify the ban on amniocentesis in our country?
Answer- Amniocentesis is a technique in which the amniotic fluid is collected from the uterus with the help of a needle to determine any genetic abnormalities in the foetus by analysing the chromosomal patterns. This technique was being misused to know the gender of the foetus and if the foetus was a girl, it was aborted. To stop the female foeticide, amniocentesis was banned under Prenatal Diagnostics Technique Act in the year 1994.
Q.5. Why should sex education be introduced to school going children? List any five reasons.
Answer- Sex education should be introduced to school going children for the following reasons:
- To make the students aware that the bodily changes they are experiencing during puberty are absolutely normal and natural.
- To help them speak up when they face any sexual harassment in society.
- The students will get to know about the facts of life from a supportive source instead of some absurd show or movie.
- They will be made aware of the risks involved in having sex.
Easy Biology 