A contraceptive skin patch releases hormones into the blood. Each patch is designed to remain attached for 7 days.
Scientists measured the maximum concentrations of FSH and LH during the first 14 days of the menstrual cycle in three groups.
| Group | Use of contraception | Maximum FSH concentration in IU/L | Maximum LH concentration in IU/L |
|---|---|---|---|
| P | patch used correctly and replaced on day 7 | 3 | 5 |
| Q | no hormonal contraception | 10 | 42 |
| R | patch detached on day 6 and was not replaced before day 14 | 8 | 35 |
Give one reason why using this patch correctly may be less affected by forgetting than taking a contraceptive pill every day.
Explain why the results for groups P and Q support the conclusion that the patch reduces the chance of pregnancy.
Explain why the results for group R show that a detached patch should be replaced promptly.
90 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.