Students should be able to evaluate the different hormonal and non-…

The idea

Evaluation means weighing benefits against drawbacks for named methods, then reaching a supported judgement. Hormonal methods such as the combined pill alter the natural cycle so no egg matures; they are highly effective when used correctly but can cause side effects and do not protect against sexually transmitted infections. Non-hormonal methods act physically or chemically: condoms block sperm and also reduce infection risk, diaphragms need correct fitting, intrauterine devices prevent implantation, spermicides kill or disable sperm, and sterilisation is intended to be permanent. Abstaining from intercourse during the fertile window avoids hormones but demands accurate cycle knowledge. A strong answer compares effectiveness, reversibility, side effects, convenience, infection protection and suitability for different people, rather than listing methods.

What earns the marks

• Compares at least one hormonal method with at least one non-hormonal method, identifying a clear advantage and disadvantage of each.
• Explains how a named method works, for example the pill inhibits FSH so eggs do not mature, or a condom prevents sperm reaching an egg.
• Discusses reversibility, noting that sterilisation is intended to be permanent while the pill, implant and barrier methods are generally reversible.
• Considers protection against sexually transmitted infections, recognising that barrier methods such as condoms offer protection whereas hormonal methods do not.
• Reaches a justified overall judgement, for example that effectiveness depends on correct and consistent use as well as on the method chosen.

Common mistakes and how to put them right

• Treating evaluation as a list of methods with no comparison.

  Put it right: State a benefit and a drawback for each method and then weigh them against each other.

• Claiming that hormonal contraception protects against sexually transmitted infections.

  Put it right: Only barrier methods such as condoms reduce that risk.

• Assuming all methods are equally reversible.

  Put it right: Sterilisation is intended to be permanent whereas most hormonal and barrier methods are not.

Exam tips

• Use comparative connectives such as whereas, however and therefore so the examiner can see evaluation rather than description.
• Anchor each point to a named method and a specific feature, for example the implant releases progesterone slowly over months or years.
• Finish with a short judgement that answers the question directly, for example stating which method best suits a particular set of circumstances and why.