What is the primary mechanism by which most combined hormonal contraceptives prevent pregnancy?

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Multiple Choice

What is the primary mechanism by which most combined hormonal contraceptives prevent pregnancy?

Explanation:
Stopping ovulation is the main way combined hormonal contraceptives prevent pregnancy. The pills provide steady levels of estrogen and progestin that suppress the hypothalamus and pituitary, reducing the release of FSH and LH. Without the mid-cycle LH surge, an egg isn’t released from the ovary, so fertilization can’t occur. Beyond this primary action, the hormones also thicken cervical mucus and alter the uterine lining to make it harder for sperm to reach an egg and for a fertilized egg to implant. These secondary effects support contraception, but stopping ovulation is the key mechanism.

Stopping ovulation is the main way combined hormonal contraceptives prevent pregnancy. The pills provide steady levels of estrogen and progestin that suppress the hypothalamus and pituitary, reducing the release of FSH and LH. Without the mid-cycle LH surge, an egg isn’t released from the ovary, so fertilization can’t occur.

Beyond this primary action, the hormones also thicken cervical mucus and alter the uterine lining to make it harder for sperm to reach an egg and for a fertilized egg to implant. These secondary effects support contraception, but stopping ovulation is the key mechanism.

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