Georgia Virtual School (GAVS) Health Practice Exam

Hormonal contraception works primarily by preventing ovulation, which is the release of an egg from the ovaries. When hormonal contraceptives, such as birth control pills, patches, or injections, are used, they release hormones that alter the hormonal signals in the body, thereby inhibiting the natural ovulation process. This means that even if intercourse occurs, fertilization cannot take place because there are no eggs available for sperm to fertilize.

Understanding how hormonal contraception functions is crucial for anyone considering it as a birth control method, as it emphasizes that the primary intent is to prevent pregnancy rather than to provide protection against sexually transmitted infections (STIs), which is not a function of hormonal methods. Additionally, hormonal contraception often requires a medical consultation for a prescription and is reversible, meaning it does not provide a permanent solution to fertility control.