Question

The contraceptive ‘SAHELI'

• A. blocks estrogen receptors in the uterus, preventing eggs from getting implanted.
• B. is an IUD.
• C. increases the concentration of estrogen and prevents ovulation in females.
• D. is a post-coital contraceptive.

Answer 1

The Correct Option is A

The question asks about the mechanism of action of the contraceptive 'SAHELI'. Let's evaluate each of the given options and identify the correct one based on scientific understanding.

1. Option 1: "blocks estrogen receptors in the uterus, preventing eggs from getting implanted."
   • This option accurately describes the function of 'SAHELI'. 'SAHELI' contains centchroman, also known as Ormeloxifene, which is a non-steroidal oral contraceptive. It works by blocking estrogen receptors, thus preventing the implantation of a fertilized egg in the uterus.
2. Option 2: "is an IUD."
   • Intrauterine devices (IUDs) are placed inside the uterus and function differently from oral contraceptives like 'SAHELI' by either releasing hormones or using copper to affect sperm movement and egg fertilization. This option is incorrect because 'SAHELI' is not an IUD.
3. Option 3: "increases the concentration of estrogen and prevents ovulation in females."
   • This describes how some hormonal contraceptives (like combined oral contraceptive pills) function, which typically contain synthetic forms of estrogen and progesterone. 'SAHELI', however, does not work by increasing estrogen concentration but rather by blocking estrogen receptors, making this option incorrect.
4. Option 4: "is a post-coital contraceptive."
   • Post-coital contraceptives are taken after intercourse to prevent pregnancy, usually by altering hormone levels to prevent implantation or ovulation. While 'SAHELI' is sometimes marketed under post-coital administration, its primary action is to block estrogen receptors, making this option a broader classification rather than a precise mechanism.

Conclusively, the correct answer is the first option: 'SAHELI' works by blocking estrogen receptors in the uterus, preventing eggs from getting implanted. This mechanism effectively prevents pregnancy by interfering with the normal hormonal environment of the uterus.