Reproductive Health – NEET 2025 Notes

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Introduction

Reproductive health refers to complete physical, emotional, and social well-being in all aspects of reproduction. According to the World Health Organization (WHO), reproductive health does not simply mean the absence of reproductive diseases or disorders, but the ability to lead a safe and responsible reproductive life.

This topic is important for NEET Biology as it carries direct questions on contraceptives, assisted reproductive technologies (ART), infertility, STDs, and population issues.


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Importance of Reproductive Health

Ensures a healthy society by reducing maternal and infant mortality.

Helps in population control.

Promotes awareness of STDs, contraception, and family planning.

Improves the quality of life and social development.



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National Strategies for Reproductive Health in India

Family Planning Programme (1951) – First of its kind in the world.

Reproductive and Child Health (RCH) Programme – Launched in 1997 to provide maternal and child care.

Awareness Programs – Sex education in schools and campaigns through media.

NGOs like MTP centers, fertility clinics, and counseling centers play an important role.



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Contraceptive Methods

Contraception means prevention of pregnancy.

A. Natural/Traditional Methods

1. Periodic abstinence – Avoiding coitus during fertile period (10th–17th day of menstrual cycle).


2. Withdrawal method – Male partner withdraws before ejaculation.


3. Lactational Amenorrhea – During first 6 months of lactation, ovulation is suppressed.



B. Barrier Methods

Condoms – Prevent pregnancy + protect against STDs.

Diaphragms, cervical caps, vaults – Block sperm entry into uterus.


C. Intrauterine Devices (IUDs)

Copper-releasing (CuT, Cu7, Multiload 375) – Increase phagocytosis of sperm.

Hormone-releasing (Progestasert, LNG-20) – Suppress sperm motility & fertilization.


D. Oral Contraceptives

Pills contain progestogen + estrogen.

Example: Mala-D, Saheli (non-steroidal pill).


E. Injectable & Implants

Hormone injections (every 3 months).

Implants under skin (prolonged contraception).


F. Surgical Methods (Sterilization)

Vasectomy – Male sterilization (vas deferens cut & tied).

Tubectomy – Female sterilization (fallopian tubes cut & tied).



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Infertility & Assisted Reproductive Technologies (ART)

When a couple cannot conceive even after 2 years of unprotected intercourse, they are considered infertile.

ART Techniques:

1. Test Tube Baby (IVF-ET) – Fertilization outside the body, embryo transferred to uterus.


2. ZIFT (Zygote Intra-Fallopian Transfer) – Zygote transferred to fallopian tube.


3. GIFT (Gamete Intra-Fallopian Transfer) – Donor eggs + sperms introduced into fallopian tube.


4. ICSI (Intra-Cytoplasmic Sperm Injection) – Direct sperm injection into egg.


5. Artificial Insemination (AI) – Sperms introduced into female reproductive tract.




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Sexually Transmitted Diseases (STDs)

Examples: Syphilis, Gonorrhea, Genital warts, Hepatitis-B, HIV-AIDS.

Symptoms: itching, discharge, ulcers, weight loss, infertility.

Prevention: Safe sex, condoms, regular check-ups.



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Population Explosion & Control

Due to decline in death rate and increase in life expectancy.

Problems: unemployment, pressure on natural resources.

Control: family planning, contraceptive awareness, small family norm.



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Key Points for NEET

Saheli → non-steroidal contraceptive pill developed in India.

Copper ions in IUDs → suppress motility and fertilizing capacity of sperm.

ZIFT vs GIFT → ZIFT uses zygote, GIFT uses gametes.

AIDS caused by HIV, transmitted sexually, by blood transfusion, and from mother to child.



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Conclusion

Reproductive health is not only essential for individuals but also for the progress of society. Awareness, proper use of contraceptives, prevention of STDs, and availability of ART can ensure a healthy reproductive life.

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