Reproductive Health Class 12 extra questions and answers Free PDF Download
FAQs on CBSE Important Questions for Class 12 Biology Reproductive Health - 2025-26
1. What is the significance of the term 'lactational amenorrhoea' as a natural contraceptive method?
Lactational amenorrhoea refers to the temporary absence of menstruation following childbirth due to intense breastfeeding. It acts as a natural contraceptive because high levels of the hormone prolactin, which stimulates milk production, suppress the release of gonadotropins (LH and FSH). This prevents ovulation and the menstrual cycle, thereby reducing the chances of conception for up to six months post-parturition.
2. Differentiate between vasectomy and tubectomy, highlighting the key surgical intervention in each.
Vasectomy and tubectomy are terminal surgical contraceptive methods. The key differences are:
- Vasectomy: This is a procedure performed on males. A small part of the vas deferens is removed or tied up through a small incision in the scrotum. This blocks the transport of sperm from the testes, preventing them from being ejaculated.
- Tubectomy: This is a procedure performed on females. A small part of the fallopian tube is removed or tied up. This prevents the ovum from reaching the uterus and also blocks the sperm from reaching the ovum for fertilisation.
3. List three strategies implemented under the Reproductive and Child Health Care (RCH) programs in India to create awareness about reproductive health.
Three key strategies implemented under the RCH programs to promote awareness are:
- Introducing sex education in schools to provide accurate information to adolescents about reproductive health, puberty-related changes, and safe sexual practices.
- Utilising governmental and non-governmental agencies to disseminate information about contraception, STDs, and maternal care through audio-visual and print media.
- Promoting awareness about the problems of overpopulation, the importance of smaller family norms, and the health benefits for both mother and child.
4. A couple is unable to conceive. Medical examination reveals the male partner has a very low sperm count, while the female partner is normal. Suggest and explain two suitable Assisted Reproductive Technologies (ART) that could help them have a child.
For a couple where the male has a low sperm count (oligospermia), the following two ARTs are highly suitable:
- Intra-Cytoplasmic Sperm Injection (ICSI): This is a specialised form of In-Vitro Fertilisation (IVF). In this procedure, a single healthy sperm is directly injected into the cytoplasm of an ovum in the laboratory to ensure fertilisation. The resulting embryo is then transferred to the female's uterus.
- Artificial Insemination (AI): In this technique, semen collected from the male partner is artificially introduced into the uterus of the female (Intra-Uterine Insemination or IUI). This bypasses the vaginal and cervical tracts, increasing the chances of sperm reaching the fallopian tubes to fertilise the egg.
5. Explain the mechanism of action of copper-releasing IUDs (like CuT) and hormone-releasing IUDs (like Progestasert).
The mechanisms of action for these IUDs are distinct:
- Copper-Releasing IUDs: These devices release copper ions into the uterus. The Cu ions suppress sperm motility and their fertilising capacity. They also induce a sterile inflammatory response in the endometrium, making it unsuitable for implantation.
- Hormone-Releasing IUDs: These IUDs release hormones like progesterone. This makes the uterus unsuitable for implantation and also causes the cervical mucus to thicken, which prevents sperm from entering the uterus. In some cases, they can also suppress ovulation.
6. Why is the statutory ban on amniocentesis for sex determination considered crucial in India? What is the primary medical purpose of this technique?
The statutory ban on amniocentesis for sex determination is crucial in India primarily to prevent female foeticide, which has led to a skewed sex ratio in many parts of the country. The misuse of this technology for selecting the sex of the child is an ethical and social crime. The primary medical purpose of amniocentesis is prenatal diagnosis. It is used to detect chromosomal abnormalities (like Down's syndrome), genetic disorders (like haemophilia), and certain metabolic disorders in the developing foetus by analysing the foetal cells present in the amniotic fluid.
7. What are Sexually Transmitted Diseases (STDs)? Name one bacterial and one viral STD, and list four key measures to prevent their transmission.
Sexually Transmitted Diseases (STDs), also known as Venereal Diseases (VD) or Reproductive Tract Infections (RTI), are infections transmitted through sexual intercourse.
- Bacterial STD: Syphilis or Gonorrhoea.
- Viral STD: Genital Herpes or AIDS (Acquired Immuno Deficiency Syndrome).
Four key preventive measures are:
- Always use condoms during coitus.
- Avoid sexual contact with unknown or multiple partners.
- Ensure that any blood for transfusion is tested and safe, and use only sterile, disposable needles and syringes.
- In case of any doubt or symptoms, consult a qualified doctor for early detection and complete treatment.
8. "The removal of gonads is not a recommended contraceptive method." Justify this statement with two strong reasons based on the physiological role of gonads.
This statement is correct. While removal of gonads (castration in males, oophorectomy in females) would cause sterility, it is not recommended as a contraceptive option for two main reasons:
- Loss of Hormonal Function: Gonads (testes and ovaries) are primary endocrine glands that produce crucial sex hormones like testosterone and estrogen. These hormones are responsible for regulating secondary sexual characteristics, metabolism, bone density, and overall physiological well-being. Their removal would lead to severe hormonal imbalances requiring lifelong hormone replacement therapy.
- Irreversibility and Health Impact: Unlike vasectomy or tubectomy which only block gamete transport, gonad removal is a highly invasive and irreversible procedure with significant health consequences, far beyond just contraception.
9. What are MTPs? Mention any two conditions under which MTPs are legally permitted in India as per the MTP Act.
MTP stands for Medical Termination of Pregnancy, which is the intentional or voluntary termination of pregnancy before the foetus becomes viable. As per the MTP (Amendment) Act, two conditions under which it is legally permitted in India are:
- To prevent grave injury to the physical or mental health of the pregnant woman.
- If the pregnancy is a result of rape or incest, or in cases of foetal abnormalities that are incompatible with a healthy life.
10. Why are barrier methods like condoms considered a dual-protection strategy, a feature not offered by other contraceptive methods like IUDs or oral pills?
Barrier methods, especially condoms, are considered a dual-protection strategy because they serve two distinct purposes simultaneously. Firstly, they act as a physical barrier to prevent sperm from meeting the ovum, thus preventing pregnancy. Secondly, they prevent direct contact between genital fluids and mucous membranes, which significantly reduces the transmission of Sexually Transmitted Diseases (STDs) like HIV, syphilis, and gonorrhoea. Other methods like IUDs, oral pills, or surgical sterilisation are highly effective for contraception but offer no protection against STDs.

















