Psychology 422 – Exam 2 – Study Material

Lesson 5: Gender and Transgender (Comprehensive)

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Lesson Overview

In this week’s lesson, you’ll learn to differentiate between sex and gender and examine topics surrounding gender identity, gender expression, and transgender issues. Gender is one of the most fundamental aspects of an individual’s identity (e.g., Deaux, 1991). Thus, many researchers have asked questions about and examined possible differences in a variety of traits, attitudes, behaviors, abilities, etc. between men and women.

Lesson Objectives

After completing this lesson, you should be able to do the following:

  • Define sex, gender, gender identity, gender expression, and sexual orientation.
  • List some of the largest psychological sex differences between men and women.
  • Identify some biological influences on the development of gender.
  • Identify some psychosocial influences on the development of gender.
  • Describe what is meant by gender dysphoria in adults and in children.

Lesson Readings & Activities

Lesson Commentary:
Lesson 5: Gender and Transgender

Textbook: Discovering Human Sexuality, 6th edition – Chapter 4, pages 115-140

Origin of Gender

You have probably heard people differentiate between “sex” and “gender.” But what does this difference really mean and what is the origin of this differentiation? Let’s take a moment to dive deeper into these terms and a few others that will be important for this module.

Sex

Sex is defined as “the distinction between female and male” (LeVay, Baldwin, & Baldwin, 2021). GLAAD (n.d.) adds “At birth, infants are assigned a sex, usually based on the appearance of their external anatomy. A person’s sex, however, is actually a combination of bodily characteristics including chromosomes, hormones, internal and external reproductive organs, and secondary sex characteristics.” In other words, when we refer to someone’s sex, we are usually referring to all that relates to the biological makeup of one’s identity as male or female. Of course, one’s biological sex can also exist outside of the male/female binary.

Gender

Gender is defined as “the collection of psychological traits that differ between males and females” (LeVay, Baldwin, & Baldwin, 2021). Gender is generally used to refer to the social and cultural expectations surrounding one’s biological sex as well as how closely one adheres to those expectations. Put differently, our culture defines certain traits, attitudes, interests, and behaviors as being masculine or feminine. Society expects individuals to gravitate to the traits, attitudes, interests, and behaviors that align with their biological sex but, of course, that is not always the case.

Gender Identity

Gender Identity is “a person’s internal, deeply held sense of their gender” (GLAAD, n.d.) or one’s “sense of being male or female” (LeVay, Baldwin, & Baldwin, 2021).

Gender Role Behavior

Gender Role Behavior refers to aspects of an individual’s behavior that are consistent with cultural definitions of masculinity or femininity.

Gender Expression

Gender Expression is the “external manifestation of gender, expressed through a person’s name, pronouns, clothing, haircut, behavior, voice, and/or body characteristics” (GLAAD, n.d.).

Sexual Orientation

Sexual Orientation “describes a person’s enduring physical, romantic, and/or emotional attraction to another person” (GLAAD, n.d.).

Psychological Sex Differences

Society categorizes certain attitudes, traits, behaviors, interests, etc. as either masculine or feminine. Generally, we are expected to align our attitudes, traits, behaviors, and interests with our biologically assigned sex. For example, males are expected to be interested in masculine things while females are expected to be interested in feminine things.

Masculinity and Femininity

One classic measure is the Bem Sex Role Inventory (1974), which lists traits considered culturally masculine or feminine. Researchers note that many differences are small, though some traits (motor performance, casual sex interest, aggression) show larger sex differences (Hyde, 2005).

Psychological Sex Differences (Extended)

Studies suggest that traits with the largest sex differences include:

  • Sexual orientation
  • Interest in visual sexual stimuli (pornography)
  • Interest in casual sex (sociosexuality)
  • Childhood toy/play preferences (job interest in “people” vs. “things”)
  • Spatial cognition
  • Aggression

However, even these differences vary widely among individuals, reflecting a combination of biological and psychosocial factors.

Biological Factors Influence Gender

Research on individuals with atypical sex development (e.g., CAH) indicates that prenatal hormones can predict sex-typical behaviors. Primate studies reveal analogous toy preferences, suggesting some innate basis for these differences. In vervet and rhesus monkeys, males prefer “cars/balls,” females prefer “dolls.”

Psychosocial Factors Influence Gender

Early family dynamics, siblings, cultural scripts, and language all shape a child’s concept of gender. Rewards and punishments, imitation, and sexual scripts (culturally based notions of male/female roles) all influence gender development. Children with siblings of the same sex tend to be more gender-typical, while opposite-sex siblings or singletons show less typically gendered behaviors on average.

Transgender

Transgender individuals have a gender identity not fully corresponding with their natal (assigned) sex. Some identify fully as the “opposite” sex, others reject binary categories. The term “transsexual” is older, often used in medical/psych contexts for those seeking hormonal/surgical transition. Many societies historically recognized “third genders.”

Gender Dysphoria

Formerly called “transsexualism,” gender dysphoria is a DSM-5 diagnostic category for those experiencing distress from mismatch between natal sex and gender identity. Its exact causes remain unclear, but likely include both biological and psychosocial components.

The Medicalization of Gender Dysphoria

Some argue that labeling it a disorder (DSM-5) furthers stigma; others note it allows insurance coverage for medical treatments. Transition typically involves psychological/physical evaluation, real-life experience (1–2 years), hormone therapy, and possibly sex-reassignment surgery.

Gender Dysphoria in Children

The DSM-5 has separate criteria for children. Highly gender-nonconforming children often show persistent cross-gender interests. Many experience discomfort with their natal sex. Studies find that feminine boys often grow up to identify as gay men; for others, cross-gender identity continues into adolescence or adulthood. Debate persists on puberty blockers for minors—proponents cite reduced suicidality, opponents note unknown long-term effects and possible fertility loss.

Assignment: Transgender Representation in the Media

Video 5.1 (linked in the course materials) examines how media depictions of transgender individuals have evolved. Reflect on how media shapes our understandings of gender identity and expression, and how representation can either lessen or reinforce discrimination.

Option 1: Transgender Representation in the Media

Analyze a modern film/TV portrayal of a transgender character. Note whether it humanizes or stigmatizes trans experiences. Discuss potential impact on public perception and relevant controversies.

Lesson Summary

Gender is a multi-faceted concept involving biological (hormonal, genetic) and psychosocial (cultural, family) influences. Transgender identities demonstrate the complexity of gender identity. Debates continue over diagnosing “gender dysphoria,” balanced by the need for supportive care. Early gender nonconformity may or may not persist into adulthood, and controversies remain regarding pediatric interventions.

Lesson 6: Sexual Orientation (Comprehensive)

Source: Lesson 6 in DONAHUE – HUMAN SEXUALITY [Page=13 to 25]

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Lesson Overview

In this lesson, we examine sexual orientation as a psychological trait describing what is erotically attractive to an individual. We highlight how it differs from sexual behavior and sexual fantasy, review the Kinsey scale, discuss prevalence rates, and explore both socialization and biological explanations.

Lesson Objectives

After completing Lesson 6, students should be able to:

  • Define sexual orientation and explain how it is measured (Kinsey scale).
  • Identify changing trends in how many people identify as LGBTQ+.
  • Recognize the correlation between childhood gender nonconformity and adult sexual orientation.
  • Distinguish among biological theories (prenatal hormones, genetics) and socialization influences.
  • Understand current debates about the “gay gene,” reducing prejudice, and relevant legislation.

Textbook & Readings

Textbook: Discovering Human Sexuality, 6th edition – Chapter 11, pages 337-346
Topics: Biological & psychosocial models of sexual orientation, childhood gender nonconformity, attitudes toward LGBTQ+ individuals, fraternal birth order effect, “gay gene” debate.

Important Sexuality Terms

Common orientation-based terms include:

  • Heterosexual/Straight: Attraction to the opposite sex.
  • Homosexual/Gay: Attraction to the same sex (gay men, lesbian women).
  • Bisexual/Bi: Attraction to both sexes.
  • Asexual: No or little sexual attraction.
  • Transgender/Trans: Gender identity not congruent with assigned birth sex.
  • Cisgender: Gender identity matches birth sex.
  • Pansexual: Attraction to persons of any sex/gender; also “omnisexual.”
  • Queer: Often used as an umbrella term for non-cisgender or non-heterosexual identities.
  • Questioning: Uncertain or exploring one’s sexual orientation or identity.

Socialization & Biological Perspectives

Psychodynamic or “early learning” models have minimal empirical support. Biological theories emphasize prenatal hormone influences, genetic components, or interplay with environment.

Population Base Rates

Studies often cite that ~2–4% of men identify as gay; ~1–2% of women as lesbian. This data comes from self-reports of preferred sexual partners, sexual behavior, or identity.

Changing Rates?

Surveys show more people now identifying as LGBTQ+ than in past decades, possibly due to reduced stigma, greater acceptance, and generational shifts. Younger cohorts in particular increasingly label their sexuality as non-heterosexual.

Developmental Perspective

Covers childhood through adolescence. Both retrospective (adults recalling childhood) and prospective (longitudinal) studies suggest a link between gender nonconformity and same-sex orientation.

Recalled Sex-Typed Behavior

A meta-analysis (Bailey & Zucker, 1995) found many gay men recall being gender nonconforming as children. Not universal, but strongly correlated. Some straight men also recall being gender atypical.

Sexual Orientation & The Fraternal Birth Order Effect

Each older brother increases a later-born son’s odds of being gay by up to ~33%. This effect does not apply to women. Adoption studies show the effect is biological, not psychosocial.

The Maternal Immune Hypothesis

Proposes that mothers become immunized to male-specific antigens with each male fetus. Over successive pregnancies, maternal antibodies may alter fetal brain sexual differentiation, predisposing a later-born son to same-sex attraction.

Neuroanatomical Perspective

Simon LeVay (1991) found the INAH3 region in the hypothalamus is smaller in gay men than straight men, resembling female-typical dimensions. Follow-up replication by Byne et al. (2001) supported these trends.

Neuroendocrine Perspective

Focuses on “organizational” vs. “activational” hormone effects. Prenatal androgen surges may shape sexuality. Animal studies confirm that manipulating hormones in critical periods can alter adult partner preference, though such experiments cannot be performed on humans.

Genetics Perspective

Twin studies show higher orientation concordance among monozygotic vs. dizygotic twins. Family linkage analyses suggest regions on X chromosome (Xq28) and chromosome 8. No single “gay gene” is definitive; epigenetic factors are likely.

Attitudes Toward LGBTQ+ People

Despite progress, discrimination remains. Knowing or interacting with sexual minorities often reduces prejudice. Media and personal relationships shape acceptance levels. Many Americans know someone who is gay, fewer know someone who is transgender.

Comparing Life Experiences

Research by Broockman & Kalla (2016) indicates that empathy-based conversations (like canvassing) can improve attitudes toward transgender individuals. Imagining parallels in one’s own life fosters positive attitude change.

Impact of Pro-LGBTQ+ Legislation

Recent legal protections, such as same-sex marriage, enhance well-being for sexual minorities. Studies show that such policy shifts can affect how heterosexuals view marriage equality, though deeper attitudinal change toward LGBTQ+ people may be slower.

Debate of the “Gay Gene”

“Born this way” arguments can reduce stigma, but raise concerns about potential “cures” or selective abortion if a specific gene were found. Conversion therapies have been widely discredited. Many researchers emphasize a multifactorial origin of orientation.

Lesson Summary

Sexual orientation arises from a blend of biology (prenatal hormones, genetics, birth order) and psychosocial factors (learning, culture). Childhood gender nonconformity correlates with adult same-sex attraction, but is not universal. Public attitudes evolve through contact, legislation, and media representation. The debate over a “gay gene” underscores ongoing ethical and scientific questions about how society handles biological insights into human sexuality.

Lesson 7: Attraction, Arousal, and Sexual Behavior (Comprehensive)

Source: Lesson 7 in DONAHUE – HUMAN SEXUALITY [Page=26 to 35]

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Lesson Overview & Objectives

In Lesson 7, we review the nature of sexual interactions, focusing on three distinct stages: sexual attraction, sexual arousal, and sexual behavior. We also explore how demographic factors (age, education, religion, relationship status) can influence sexual behaviors like masturbation or oral sex, and discuss typical coital practices.

Objectives:
• Distinguish between attraction, arousal, and behavior.
• Identify physical and behavioral traits that increase perceived attractiveness.
• Describe sexual fantasies and the difference between psychological vs. physiological arousal.
• Explain how various demographics can affect masturbation, coitus, and other sexual behaviors.

Textbook Readings

Discovering Human Sexuality, 6th edition – Chapter 6, pages 145-172 and Chapter 7, pages 179-183. Covers the science of attraction (facial symmetry, body shape, babyfacedness), the sexual response cycle, and demographic data on behaviors.

What Is Beauty?

We often differentiate between “liking” and “sexual attraction.” Sexual attraction entails an erotic or romantic component. Research finds consistent cross-cultural preferences for certain traits (e.g., symmetry, babyfacedness) that might be tied to reproductive advantages.

Facial Traits & Body Shape

Key aspects that influence perceived attractiveness include:

  • Masculinity-Femininity (e.g., men with angular faces; women with rounder faces).
  • Babyfacedness (neoteny). A certain level (around 30% admixture) is considered most attractive.
  • Symmetry. More symmetrical faces and bodies are often rated higher in attractiveness.

Body shape also matters. Waist-to-hip ratio (WHR) of ~0.7 for women or ~0.9 for men is frequently preferred. Cultural standards of overall weight differ widely, but certain proportions may signal fertility or health.

Behavior & Personality in Attraction

In addition to physical traits, behavior, personality, and body language influence attractiveness. Such factors generally require more time to evaluate but can be crucial in long-term attraction. Short-term contexts often prioritize appearance; long-term partner selection weighs personality traits more heavily.

Sexual Arousal

Defined as an acute psychological state of excitement plus physiological changes (e.g., genital vasocongestion). External and internal triggers (touch, fantasy) can both initiate arousal. Hormones like testosterone play a role in libido for all genders.

Sexual Fantasies

Imagined sexual experiences can occur spontaneously during waking hours. Men average about 7.2 fantasies per day, women ~4.5, but content varies greatly. Men tend to focus more on visually explicit or scenario-based fantasies; women can report more emotional or contextual fantasies.

Sexual Response Cycle

The four-phase model includes:

  • Excitement: Initial vasocongestion, increased heart rate, erection/lubrication.
  • Plateau: High level of arousal maintained. Further swelling, possible orgasmic platform formation (women).
  • Orgasm: Peak of sexual pleasure, release of muscle tension, often accompanied by oxytocin release.
  • Resolution: Body returns to a non-aroused state. Men have a refractory period, women may experience multiple orgasms if stimulation continues.

Women are more likely to have additional orgasms consecutively, while men typically require a rest interval post-orgasm.

Demographics & Sexual Behavior

Large studies show how variables like age, education level, marital status, religion, and sexual orientation correlate with likelihood of engaging in certain sexual behaviors—e.g., masturbation, oral sex, or coitus frequency.

Masturbation Statistics

Men tend to masturbate more frequently than women across all age brackets. Higher education correlates with higher reported masturbation rates. Religion can lower rates, and cohabiting singles or divorced individuals often report more masturbation than married couples.

See data tables in the PDF for breakdowns by race, religion, orientation, etc. Younger, more educated, and less religious participants generally have higher reported frequencies.

Noncoital Behaviors

Oral sex (fellatio for penis stimulation; cunnilingus for vulvar stimulation) is increasingly common, especially among younger, well-educated people. Analingus is also noted but less prevalent. Noncoital acts can serve as either foreplay or an alternative to intercourse.

Coitus

~95% of opposite-sex sexual events include coitus (“missionary” position is most common, though many others exist). Alfred Kinsey’s early research (1940s) noted that ~75% of Americans back then had only ever tried the missionary position. Today, couples often experiment with multiple positions.

Lesson Summary

Attraction involves physical traits (face, body shape) and behavioral/personality factors. Sexual arousal can be triggered by external cues (touch, visuals) or internal fantasies. The sexual response cycle helps us understand distinct phases of arousal. Large demographic surveys reveal how age, education, religion, and marital status can influence masturbation rates, coital frequency, and acceptance of noncoital acts like oral sex.

Lesson 8: Fertility, Pregnancy, and Childbirth (Comprehensive)

Source: Lesson 8 in DONAHUE – HUMAN SEXUALITY [Page=36 to 40]

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Lesson Overview & Objectives

Lesson 8 focuses on fertility—how conception occurs, common obstacles, and various medical interventions. It then describes pregnancy by trimester, detailing fetal development and maternal changes. Finally, we cover the stages of labor and postpartum considerations, including breastfeeding.

Objectives:
• Identify the fertile window and factors affecting conception.
• Understand causes of infertility and medical interventions (ART).
• Describe fetal development in each trimester.
• Summarize the stages of labor and postpartum changes.

Textbook Readings

Discovering Human Sexuality, 6th edition: Chapter 9, pages 252-288. Topics: Tracking ovulation, ART (assisted reproductive technology), pregnancy trimesters, labor stages, postpartum changes.

Fertility & Likelihood of Conception

Ovulation typically occurs mid-cycle (around day 14 in a standard 28-day cycle). The ovum remains viable for about 24 hours. Sperm can survive up to ~5–6 days in the female reproductive tract, creating a “fertility window.” On average, a fertile couple having regular unprotected intercourse has about a 20% chance of conceiving per cycle.

Infertility

Roughly 15% of couples seek help for fertility issues. Infertility is defined as failure to conceive or carry a pregnancy to term after one year of unprotected sex. Causes include:

  • Poor sperm count or motility (< 20 million sperm/ml, < 50% motility).
  • Reproductive tract abnormalities (e.g., scarred oviducts, endometriosis).
  • Ovulation problems or egg quality issues.

Age significantly impacts fertility in both sexes. By mid-30s, fertility drops for women. External factors like smoking, stress, and body weight can also influence outcomes.

Assisted Reproductive Technology (ART)

When natural conception proves difficult, couples may use medical technologies such as artificial insemination or in vitro fertilization (IVF). ART procedures can be physically and emotionally challenging, as well as expensive. They offer solutions for various infertility causes, from blocked oviducts to low sperm counts.

Artificial Insemination

A procedure where sperm (from partner or donor) is introduced directly into the woman’s cervix or uterus, bypassing potential obstacles in the vagina or cervix. Often used if the male partner has low sperm count or motility, or if donor sperm is needed.

In Vitro Fertilization (IVF)

Eggs are retrieved from the ovaries, then combined with sperm in a lab dish. After fertilization, the resulting embryos are transferred to the uterus. Success rates vary with maternal age and embryo quality. Sometimes multiple embryos are transferred, risking multiple gestation (twins or triplets). Other fertility treatments include ICSI (intracytoplasmic sperm injection) and GIFT/ZIFT.

First Trimester

Covers weeks 1–12. Key events:

  • Embryo implants in uterine lining. Organ systems begin forming.
  • By week 8 (gestational age), embryo becomes a fetus (~4 inches, 2 oz by end of trimester).
  • HCG (human chorionic gonadotropin) levels rise, often causing nausea (“morning sickness”).
  • Significant risk of miscarriage occurs here.

Second Trimester

Weeks 13–26. Typically easier for many pregnant individuals:

  • Morning sickness often subsides.
  • “Quickening”—feeling fetal movements—begins (~week 16–20).
  • Further fetal growth and development; major organs become more functional.
  • Screening tests (e.g., ultrasound, amniocentesis) can detect congenital abnormalities.

Third Trimester

Weeks 27–40 (or until birth):

  • Fetus grows rapidly, can exceed ~5 lbs by week 35.
  • Back pain, fatigue, edema (swelling) often increase in the mother.
  • Psychological preparation for birth intensifies (childbirth classes, birth plans, etc.).

Labor

Childbirth typically divides into three stages:

  1. First Stage: Uterine contractions cause cervical dilation (to ~10 cm). This can last 2–24 hours or more.
  2. Second Stage: Fetal descent through the birth canal; crowning occurs. Ends with baby’s delivery.
  3. Third Stage: Placenta separates and is expelled (“afterbirth”) ~30 minutes post-delivery.

A C-section may be performed if vaginal delivery is unsafe or complications arise. ~30% of U.S. births are by C-section.

Premature & Delayed Labor

Premature birth occurs if labor begins before ~37 weeks. Babies risk low birth weight and underdeveloped organ systems.
Delayed birth extends ~3 weeks beyond due date (~10% of pregnancies). Baby may grow too large for safe vaginal delivery, or placenta may degrade.

Postpartum Changes

The mother experiences uterine involution (uterus shrinking back to pre-pregnancy size), hormonal adjustments, and possible “baby blues” or postpartum depression. Physical recovery can vary widely, depending on the birth experience and any complications.

Breastfeeding

Milk production ramps up due to prolactin, while oxytocin triggers the milk let-down reflex. Breastfeeding supports infant immunity (colostrum, antibodies), fosters bonding, and may aid maternal recovery. However, some find it challenging or face issues like mastitis or low milk supply.

Lesson Summary

Fertility, pregnancy, and childbirth encompass multiple stages, from timing intercourse around ovulation to navigating medical interventions for infertility. Pregnancy itself is typically divided into three trimesters with distinct developmental milestones and maternal experiences. Labor’s three stages culminate in the birth of the baby and placenta. Postpartum changes include physical and emotional adjustments, with breastfeeding often playing a key role in maternal-child bonding and recovery.

Lesson 9: Contraception and Abortion (Comprehensive)

Source: Lesson 9 in DONAHUE – HUMAN SEXUALITY [Page=41 to 48]

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Lesson Overview & Objectives

Lesson 9 provides an overview of modern contraception and abortion practices, including typical use vs. perfect use failure rates, different birth control methods, and induced abortion procedures. We also address key terminology around abortion (therapeutic, elective) and emphasize how contraceptive options differ in effectiveness, side effects, and practicality.

Objectives:
• Understand contraceptive failure rates and the difference between typical-use and perfect-use.
• Compare and contrast barrier, hormonal, and behavioral birth control methods.
• Examine permanent options (sterilization) and emergency contraception (Plan B).
• Distinguish between surgical and medical abortion procedures, plus relevant legal/ethical terms.

Textbook Reference

Discovering Human Sexuality, 6th edition – Chapter 9, pages 252–288
Key topics: Contraceptive methods, sterilization, emergency contraception, abortion methods (surgical vs. medical).

Contraception

Contraception includes all methods preventing conception or pregnancy. Techniques range from traditional (withdrawal, fertility awareness) to modern pharmaceuticals (pills, patches, implants, IUDs). Success depends on user compliance, cost, and method appropriateness.

Failure Rates

Each contraceptive method has two relevant measures:

  • Perfect-use failure rate: The percentage of users who become pregnant in a year with perfect, consistent use.
  • Typical-use failure rate: The percentage of users who become pregnant in a year under real-world conditions (forgetfulness, incorrect usage).

Typical-use rates are almost always higher (worse) because people sometimes forget or misuse.

Methods of Contraception

Contraceptive options can be categorized into:

  • Physical (barrier) methods: condoms, diaphragms, cervical caps, IUDs.
  • Hormone-based methods: pills, patches, rings, shots, implants.
  • Behavioral methods: withdrawal, fertility awareness (“rhythm”), abstinence.
  • Sterilization: vasectomy, tubal ligation.

Physical (Barrier) Methods

Barrier methods physically prevent sperm from reaching an egg. Common examples:

  • Male Condom: Cheap, effective with perfect use (~2% failure), also protects against STIs. Typical use ~18% failure.
  • Female Condom: Worn internally. Higher typical-use failure than male condom, but also offers some STI protection.
  • Diaphragm/Cervical Cap: Fitted devices used with spermicide. No STI protection. Typical-use failure can be moderate (~12–20%).
  • IUD (Intrauterine Device): T-shaped device inserted into uterus (copper or hormonal). Very low failure rates (~1% or less), but no STI protection. Must be placed by a healthcare provider.

Hormone-Based Methods

Methods rely on progestin, or progestin combined with estrogen, to prevent ovulation or otherwise alter the uterine environment.

  • Oral Contraceptive Pills: “The pill”. Must be taken daily; typical-use failure ~7%, perfect use ~<2%. Some health benefits (reduced acne, lighter periods), but no STI protection.
  • Non-Oral Hormone Methods:
    • Depo-Provera shots (injections every 3 months)
    • Transdermal patch (weekly replacement)
    • Vaginal ring (monthly placement)
    • Implants (e.g. Nexplanon) in the arm, lasting ~3–5 years

Side effects may include mood changes, headaches, or, in rare cases, blood clots (especially with estrogen).

Behavioral Methods

  • Withdrawal (Coitus Interruptus): Removing the penis before ejaculation. Perfect-use failure ~4%. Typical-use ~20% or more.
  • Fertility Awareness (Rhythm): Tracking cycle lengths, cervical mucus, or basal temperature to avoid fertile days. Requires discipline; typical-use failure can be high (~24%).
  • Abstinence: 100% effective if fully adhered to. May be chosen for religious, personal, or health reasons.

Sterilization

Permanent surgical methods:

  • Vasectomy: In men, vas deferens is cut/tied. Nearly 100% reliable. No STI protection, reversal is complex.
  • Tubal Ligation: In women, fallopian tubes are cut or sealed. Also ~99% effective. More invasive, higher up-front cost, longer recovery.

Options After Unprotected Sex

Emergency contraception (Plan B) can reduce pregnancy risk if taken soon after intercourse (often within 72–120 hours). Paragard (copper) IUD can be inserted for emergency contraception and remain for long-term birth control.

Abortion

Abortion is the termination of pregnancy. It can be induced surgically or medically. Terminology:

  • Induced abortion: Performed by medical or surgical means.
  • Therapeutic abortion: To safeguard the mother’s life or health.
  • Elective abortion: Chosen for reasons other than maternal health risk.

Induced vs. Therapeutic vs. Elective

Induced abortion includes any intentional procedure. Therapeutic focuses on preserving maternal health/life (e.g., severe fetal anomaly, endangering mother’s life), while elective is patient choice where no direct health threat exists.

Induced Abortion Methods

Procedures vary by gestational age:

  • Vacuum Aspiration: 1st trimester. Most common. A suction device empties the uterus.
  • D&E (Dilation and Evacuation): 2nd trimester. Involves dilation and surgical instrument use.
  • Medical Abortion: Early pregnancy only (up to ~10 weeks). Involves drugs like mifepristone (RU-486).

Surgical Abortion

Performed by vacuum aspiration or dilation & evacuation. Often safe if done by licensed providers. Risks of complications increase with gestational age. Quick procedure (~5–10 minutes) but requires some follow-up care.

Medical Abortion

Also called “medication abortion.” Involves taking pills like mifepristone (blocks progesterone) and misoprostol (induces uterine contractions). Generally used during the 1st trimester. Efficacy ranges ~95–98%. Resembles a miscarriage over ~1–2 days.

Lesson Summary

Modern contraception offers numerous options, each with unique pros, cons, and effectiveness. Sterilization provides a permanent solution for those sure they do not want future pregnancies. Emergency contraception (Plan B, copper IUD) can prevent pregnancy after unprotected sex. Abortion remains a final measure to end an established pregnancy, either surgically or via medication, with legal and ethical nuances depending on jurisdiction and personal beliefs.

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