Biology Chapter 3 Reproductive Health Class 12 NCERT PDF (FREE Download)
FAQs on NCERT Solutions for Class 12 Biology Chapter 3 Reproductive Health
1. What key topics are covered in the NCERT Solutions for Class 12 Biology Chapter 3, Reproductive Health?
The NCERT Solutions for Class 12 Biology Chapter 3 provide detailed, step-by-step explanations for all exercise questions related to 'Reproductive Health'. As per the CBSE 2025-26 syllabus, these solutions cover critical topics including reproductive health problems and strategies, population explosion, birth control methods, Medical Termination of Pregnancy (MTP), Sexually Transmitted Diseases (STDs), and infertility.
2. According to the NCERT solutions, what defines 'reproductive health' and why is it significant?
Reproductive health is defined as a state of complete physical, emotional, behavioural, and social well-being in all matters relating to the reproductive system. Its significance lies in building a healthy society by reducing maternal and infant mortality rates, promoting responsible family planning, and preventing the spread of STDs, which contributes to the overall progress of the nation.
3. How do the NCERT solutions explain the primary reasons for population explosion in India?
The NCERT solutions identify several key factors contributing to population explosion:
- A rapid decline in the death rate, including the Maternal Mortality Rate (MMR) and Infant Mortality Rate (IMR).
- An increase in the number of individuals in the reproducible age group.
- Improved medical facilities and better living conditions that increase longevity.
- A lack of widespread awareness and adoption of effective contraceptive methods.
4. What are the different categories of contraceptive methods detailed in the NCERT solutions for Chapter 3?
The NCERT solutions classify contraceptive methods into the following major types:
- Natural Methods: These work on the principle of avoiding the meeting of sperm and ovum. Examples include periodic abstinence and lactational amenorrhea.
- Barrier Methods: These physically prevent fertilisation. Examples include condoms and diaphragms.
- Intra-Uterine Devices (IUDs): Devices like Copper-T that are inserted into the uterus to prevent implantation.
- Oral Contraceptives: Hormone-based pills that inhibit ovulation.
- Surgical Methods (Sterilisation): Permanent methods like Vasectomy in males and Tubectomy in females.
5. Why is the surgical removal of gonads (castration) not considered a contraceptive method, unlike vasectomy or tubectomy?
The NCERT solutions clarify this critical distinction. Contraceptive methods like vasectomy and tubectomy are designed to prevent pregnancy while allowing the body's endocrine system to function normally. In contrast, removing the gonads (testes or ovaries) not only causes permanent sterility but also halts the production of essential sex hormones, leading to significant health complications and hormonal imbalances.
6. How does the NCERT solution justify the statutory ban on amniocentesis for sex determination in India?
The NCERT solution explains that while amniocentesis is a medical procedure to detect foetal genetic abnormalities, it was being widely misused to determine the sex of the child. This often led to the illegal abortion of female foetuses, a practice known as female foeticide. The statutory ban is therefore justified as a necessary measure to prevent this social evil and correct the imbalanced sex ratio in the country.
7. What are the various Assisted Reproductive Technologies (ART) explained in the NCERT solutions to assist infertile couples?
The solutions describe several advanced technologies to help infertile couples conceive:
- In Vitro Fertilisation (IVF): Fertilisation of the egg and sperm occurs outside the body in a lab, followed by Embryo Transfer (ET).
- Zygote Intra Fallopian Transfer (ZIFT): A zygote or early embryo is transferred into the fallopian tube.
- Gamete Intra Fallopian Transfer (GIFT): An ovum from a donor is transferred to the fallopian tube of a female who cannot produce one.
- Intracytoplasmic Sperm Injection (ICSI): A single sperm is directly injected into an ovum to facilitate fertilisation.
8. The NCERT solutions state that not all STDs are curable. What is the key distinction made?
The NCERT solutions clarify that STDs caused by bacteria, like syphilis and gonorrhoea, are generally curable if detected early and treated with proper antibiotics. However, STDs caused by viruses, such as genital herpes, Hepatitis-B, and HIV/AIDS, are not completely curable at present, although their symptoms can be managed with medication.
9. What is the step-by-step correct method recommended in the NCERT solutions to prevent contracting STDs?
The solutions outline a clear, multi-step approach for the prevention of STDs:
- Always use condoms during intercourse as they provide an effective barrier.
- Avoid sexual contact with unknown or multiple partners.
- In case of any doubt or symptom, one must immediately consult a qualified doctor for early diagnosis and complete treatment.
- Ensure personal hygiene of the genital areas.
10. Why is 'Lactational Amenorrhea' considered a natural but highly conditional contraceptive method in the NCERT solutions?
Lactational Amenorrhea refers to the absence of menstruation during the period of intense breastfeeding after childbirth. While it acts as a natural contraceptive by preventing ovulation, the NCERT solutions emphasise that its reliability is limited. This method is only considered effective for a maximum period of six months post-partum and only if the mother is breastfeeding fully and regularly. Its effectiveness drastically reduces if menstruation resumes or supplementary food is introduced to the infant.

















