Scientists investigated the effect of a combined contraceptive pill.
Women in group P took the combined pill every day. Women in group Q took a pill that contained no hormones. The scientists measured the mean concentrations of FSH and LH on day 13 and recorded how many women ovulated.
The Table shows the results.
Table
| Group | Mean FSH concentration in arbitrary units | Mean LH concentration in arbitrary units | Percentage of women who ovulated |
|---|---|---|---|
| P | 3 | 4 | 2 |
| Q | 10 | 45 | 96 |
Explain why group Q was included in the investigation.
Explain the results for group P.
Suggest one reason why some women in group P ovulated.
The combined pill also makes the mucus at the cervix thicker.
Explain why a woman who ovulates while taking the combined pill may still not become pregnant.
48 exam-style questions on Edexcel GCSE Biology 7.2 Reproductive hormones, covering 7.2.1 Stages of the menstrual cycle, 7.2.2 Hormonal control of the menstrual cycle, 7.2.3 Hormonal contraception, 7.2.4 Evaluating contraception methods, and 7.2.5 Hormones in Assisted Reproductive Technology. Each one has a worked solution and a mark scheme showing where the marks go.