Q.Removal of gonads cannot be considered as a contraceptive option. Why?
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🔒 Start your 14-day free trial to unlock the full solution →Concept understanding — Hormonal Regulation Failure
Let’s start with something you already know. Think of your body as a large, complex organisation — a company, a government, or even a school. For everything to run smoothly, there needs to be a communication system that sends instructions from the top to every department. In your body, that communication system is partly run by hormones.
Hormones are chemical messengers. They are released by special glands (like the thyroid, pancreas, or pituitary) and travel through your blood to tell specific organs what to do — when to grow, when to release energy, when to sleep, and so on. As long as every gland releases the right amount of hormone at the right time, your body stays in balance. That balance is called homeostasis.
Now, hormonal regulation failure is simply what happens when that communication system breaks down. It means a gland either releases too much of a hormone, too little, or the target organ stops responding to the hormone properly. The message gets lost, garbled, or never sent.
Why does this matter for a commerce/humanities student?
You don’t need to memorise gland names or chemical pathways. What matters is understanding the consequence: when hormonal regulation fails, the body cannot maintain its internal balance. This leads to specific disorders. The NCERT textbook (Class 11, Chapter 22 – Chemical Coordination and Integration) lists several classic examples. Here are the ones you are most likely to encounter:
- Diabetes Mellitus: The pancreas does not produce enough insulin, or the body’s cells ignore insulin. Insulin is the hormone that tells cells to take in sugar from the blood. Without it, blood sugar rises dangerously. This is the most common example of hormonal regulation failure.
- Hypothyroidism: The thyroid gland produces too little thyroxine. This slows down metabolism — you feel tired, gain weight, and feel cold. In children, it can cause severe developmental delays (cretinism).
- Hyperthyroidism: The opposite — too much thyroxine. Metabolism speeds up uncontrollably: weight loss, rapid heartbeat, sweating, and irritability.
- Gigantism / Acromegaly: Too much growth hormone from the pituitary gland. In children, it causes excessive growth (gigantism). In adults, it causes bones of the hands, feet, and face to enlarge (acromegaly).
- Dwarfism: Too little growth hormone in childhood leads to stunted growth, but normal body proportions.
The key idea is feedback loop failure. Normally, if a hormone level rises too high, the brain tells the gland to stop producing it. If the level drops too low, the brain tells the gland to produce more. In hormonal regulation failure, this feedback loop is broken — the gland keeps producing too much or too little, regardless of what the body needs.
A simple analogy
Imagine a thermostat connected to an air conditioner. The thermostat senses the room temperature and tells the AC to turn on or off. That’s normal regulation.
Now imagine the thermostat is broken. It keeps telling the AC to run even when the room is freezing — that’s overproduction (hyperthyroidism). Or it never tells the AC to turn on, even when the room is sweltering — that’s underproduction (hypothyroidism). Or the AC itself is broken and ignores the thermostat’s signal — that’s hormone resistance (like in type 2 diabetes).
The room (your body) can’t stay comfortable. That’s hormonal regulation failure.
What causes it?
The NCERT textbook mentions several causes, but for a prose subject, you only need the broad categories:
- Genetic defects – you are born with a gland that doesn’t work properly.
- Autoimmune attacks – the body’s own immune system mistakenly attacks a gland (e.g., Hashimoto’s thyroiditis destroys the thyroid).
- Tumours – a benign growth in a gland can cause it to secrete hormones uncontrollably.
- Nutritional deficiencies – for example, lack of iodine in the diet leads to hypothyroidism (goitre). …
Removal of gonads — the ovaries in females and the testes in males — is a permanent surgical procedure called gonadectomy. It stops the production of gametes (eggs and sperm), so it does prevent fertilisation. But that is not the only function of the gonads. They are also endocrine glands that secrete the sex hormones: oestrogen and progesterone from the ovaries, and testosterone from the testes.
These hormones are essential for the development and maintenance of secondary sexual characteristics — such as breast development, body hair distribution, and voice changes — as well as for normal bone density, muscle mass, and overall metabolic health. Removing the gonads would cause a sudden and irreversible loss of these hormones, leading to a condition similar to surgical menopause or castration. The side effects include hot flushes, osteoporosis, loss of libido, and increased risk of cardiovascular disease. …
Removal of gonads (ovaries or testes) is not a contraceptive option because it causes permanent sterility, severe hormonal imbalances, and irreversible health consequences that go far beyond preventing pregnancy.
The question touches on a fundamental principle in reproductive biology: contraception aims to prevent pregnancy without destroying the body's normal function. Gonads — the ovaries in females and testes in males — are not merely organs that produce gametes (eggs and sperm). They are endocrine glands that secrete essential hormones: oestrogen and progesterone from the ovaries, and testosterone from the testes. These hormones regulate not just reproduction but also bone density, muscle mass, fat distribution, mood, libido, and secondary sexual characteristics.
Removing the gonads would certainly prevent pregnancy — no eggs or sperm means no fertilisation. But that is like using a sledgehammer to crack a nut. The procedure, called gonadectomy (oophorectomy in females, orchidectomy in males), is a major surgical intervention with lifelong consequences. In females, it induces immediate surgical menopause, with hot flushes, vaginal dryness, osteoporosis risk, and increased cardiovascular disease. In males, it causes loss of libido, erectile dysfunction, muscle wasting, and osteoporosis. These are not side effects — they are the direct result of removing the body's primary source of sex hormones.
The NCERT textbook explicitly states that "removal of gonads cannot be considered a contraceptive option" because it leads to "permanent sterility and loss of sexual characteristics." This is a key point often tested in board exams.
Contraceptive methods are designed to be reversible or at least minimally disruptive to normal physiology. Barrier methods (condoms, diaphragms), hormonal pills, intrauterine devices (IUDs), and even surgical sterilisation (vasectomy or tubectomy) all preserve the gonads and their hormone production. Vasectomy, for example, only cuts the vas deferens — the testes continue producing testosterone and sperm, though sperm cannot reach the semen. Tubectomy blocks the fallopian tubes but leaves ovaries intact, so hormone cycles continue normally. In contrast, gonadectomy destroys both gamete production and hormone secretion, making it a form of castration, not contraception. …
- TG EAPCET 2025Set ap-2025-04-30-FN1 markMCQQ.Consider the following statements Assertion (A): In cockroach, 6th abdominal ganglion is the largest ganglion. Reason (R): It is formed by the fusion of ganglia of 7-10 abdominal segments. The correct answer is (A) Both (A) and (R) are true, (R) is the correct explanation of (A) (B) Both (A) and (R) are true, (R) is not the correct explanation of (A) (C) (A) is true, but (R) is false (D) (A) is false, but (R) is true
›Reveal solutionSolution
The 6th abdominal ganglion in a cockroach is indeed the largest among the abdominal ganglia because it is formed by the fusion of ganglia from several posterior abdominal segments. Both the assertion and the reason are true, and the reason correctly explains the assertion. The correct option is (A).
The nervous system of a cockroach is organized into a series of ganglia connected by a ventral nerve cord. These ganglia are essentially clusters of nerve cells that control various body functions. The size and complexity of these ganglia often reflect the number of segments they innervate or the extent of fusion that has occurred during development.
In insects like the cockroach, there's a general trend of cephalization (concentration of nervous tissue in the head) and also a tendency for ganglia in the posterior segments to fuse, forming larger, more complex structures that control the functions of the terminal segments and reproductive organs.
Let's evaluate the given statements:
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Evaluate Assertion (A): "In cockroach, 6th abdominal ganglion is the largest ganglion."
The cockroach nervous system consists of a supra-oesophageal ganglion (brain), a sub-oesophageal ganglion, three thoracic ganglia, and six abdominal ganglia. While the brain and sub-oesophageal ganglion are significant, among the abdominal ganglia, the 6th (or terminal) abdominal ganglion is indeed the largest. This ganglion is a prominent structure located in the posterior part of the abdomen. Therefore, Assertion (A) is true.
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Evaluate Reason (R): "It is formed by the fusion of ganglia of 7-10 abdominal segments."
The 6th abdominal ganglion is not a simple ganglion corresponding to a single segment. Instead, it is a composite structure. During embryonic development, the ganglia of the 7th, 8th, 9th, and sometimes even the 10th abdominal segments fuse together to form this single, large terminal ganglion. This fusion allows for coordinated control of the complex structures in the posterior abdomen, such as the cerci, anal styles, and reproductive organs. Therefore, Reason (R) is true. …
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- TG EAPCET 2025Set ap-2025-04-30-FN1 markMCQQ.Consider the following statements Assertion (A): Hypersecretion of insulin leads to insulin shock. Reason (R): Hypoglycemia. The correct answer is (A) Both (A) and (R) are true, (R) is the correct explanation of (A) (B) Both (A) and (R) are true, (R) is not the correct explanation of (A) (C) (A) is true, but (R) is false (D) (A) is false, but (R) is true
›Reveal solutionSolution
The key idea is that hypersecretion of insulin causes a dangerous drop in blood glucose (hypoglycemia), which is precisely the condition known as insulin shock. Both statements are true, and the reason correctly explains the assertion. …
- TG EAPCET 2023Set ap-2023-05-10-FN1 markMCQQ.Which of the following depicts the correct pathway of transport of sperms (A) Rete testis - Vasa efferentia - Epididymis - Vas deferens (B) Rete testis - Epididymis - Vasa efferentia - Vas deferens (C) Vasa efferentia - Rete testis - Vas deferens - Epididymis (D) Epididymis - Vasa efferentia - Rete testis - Vas deferens
›Reveal solutionSolution
Sperm are transported from the rete testis, through the vasa efferentia, into the epididymis, and finally into the vas deferens. The correct pathway is (A).
The male reproductive system is designed for the production and transport of sperm. Understanding the precise sequence of structures involved in sperm transport is crucial. Sperm are produced in the testes and then travel through a series of ducts to exit the body. Each duct plays a specific role in maturation, storage, or transport.
Here's the step-by-step pathway of sperm transport:
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Sperm Production Site: Sperm (spermatozoa) are initially produced in the seminiferous tubules within the testes. These tubules are the functional units of the testis where spermatogenesis occurs.
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Rete Testis: From the seminiferous tubules, the sperm move into a network of interconnected tubules called the rete testis. This network collects sperm from multiple seminiferous tubules.
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Vasa Efferentia (Efferent Ductules): From the rete testis, sperm are transported out of the testis proper through several small ducts known as the vasa efferentia (or efferent ductules). These ducts connect the rete testis to the epididymis.
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Epididymis: The vasa efferentia lead into the epididymis, a highly coiled tube located along the posterior surface of each testis. The epididymis is a critical site for sperm maturation, where they acquire motility and fertilizing capacity, and also serves as a storage site for sperm. …
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- TG EAPCET 2023Set ap-2023-05-11-FN1 markMCQQ.Assertion (A): Diabetcs mellitus is symptomized by excretion of glucose through urine and formation of ketone bodies. Reason (R): Anti-diuretic hormone is secreted by the posterior lobe of the pituitary gland. The correct option among the following is (A) A and R are true. R is the correct explanation of A (B) A and R are true, but R is not the correct explanation of A (C) A is true but R is false (D) Both A and R are false.
›Reveal solutionSolution
The assertion about diabetes mellitus is correct, but the reason about ADH secretion is unrelated to it. So the correct option is (B).
The question tests two separate facts: one about the symptoms of diabetes mellitus, and another about the source of anti-diuretic hormone (ADH). The key is to check each statement independently, then see if the reason explains the assertion.
Concept and intuition: Diabetes mellitus involves high blood glucose due to insulin deficiency or resistance. This leads to glucose spilling into urine (glycosuria) and, when cells cannot use glucose, the body breaks down fats, producing ketone bodies (ketosis). ADH, on the other hand, is a hormone that regulates water balance by acting on kidneys — it has nothing to do with glucose or ketone metabolism. So even if both statements are true, the reason does not explain the assertion.
Let’s verify each part step by step.
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Assertion (A): Diabetes mellitus is indeed characterized by excretion of glucose in urine (glycosuria) and formation of ketone bodies (ketosis). This happens because insulin deficiency prevents glucose uptake by cells, leading to hyperglycemia and glucose overflow into urine. Simultaneously, the body switches to fat metabolism, producing ketone bodies like acetoacetate and beta-hydroxybutyrate. So A is true.
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Reason (R): Anti-diuretic hormone (ADH, also called vasopressin) is synthesized in the hypothalamus and stored in the posterior pituitary, from where it is released into the bloodstream. So the statement “ADH is secreted by the posterior lobe of the pituitary gland” is correct. Thus R is true. …
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- TG EAPCET 2022Set ap-2022-07-31-FN1 markMCQQ.Assertion (A): Secondary spermatocytes are haploid. Reason (R): They are formed from primary spermatocytes after meiosis I. The correct option among the following is (A) (A) is true, (R) is true and (R) is the correct explanation for (A) (B) (A) is true, (R) is true but (R) is not the correct explanation for (A) (C) (A) is true but (R) is false (D) (A) is false but (R) is true
›Reveal solutionSolution
Secondary spermatocytes are haploid, and the reason is exactly the one printed: they arise from primary spermatocytes by meiosis I, the reduction division. Both true, R explains A — option (A).
The concept first
Spermatogenesis, in order:
- Spermatogonium — diploid (2n = 46 in humans), the stem cell in the seminiferous tubule; divides mitotically.
- Primary spermatocyte — still diploid (2n = 46). It has replicated its DNA (so 46 chromosomes, each with two chromatids) and enters meiosis.
- Meiosis I — the reduction division. Homologous chromosomes pair (synapsis), cross over, and then the homologues — not the sister chromatids — are pulled to opposite poles. Chromosome number is therefore halved.
- Secondary spermatocyte — haploid (n = 23), though each chromosome still has 2 chromatids.
- Meiosis II — an equational, mitosis-like division; sister chromatids separate.
- Spermatids — 4 haploid cells per primary spermatocyte → they differentiate (spermiogenesis) into spermatozoa.
Step-by-step
Step 1 — Test the Assertion. "Secondary spermatocytes are haploid." Yes: after meiosis I the count is 23, not 46. A is TRUE.
Step 2 — Test the Reason. "They are formed from primary spermatocytes after meiosis I." That is precisely the lineage. R is TRUE. …
- TG EAPCET 2021Set ap-2021-08-10-AN1 markMCQQ.Study the following combinations and identify the correct combinations: S.No Disorder Hormone Secreting gland I Addison's disease Glucocorticoids Adrenal II Myxoedema Thyroxine Thyroid III Diabetes insipidus Insulin Pancreas IV Tetany Calcitonin Parathyroid (A) I and II (B) II and III (C) III and IV (D) I and IV
›Reveal solutionSolution
Each disorder arises from deficiency of a specific hormone. Addison's disease and myxoedema are correctly paired with their hormones and glands (glucocorticoids from adrenal cortex, thyroxine from thyroid), while diabetes insipidus and tetany are incorrectly paired. The answer is (A).
The question tests whether you can match endocrine disorders with the hormone deficiency that causes them and the gland responsible. Every classic endocrine disorder has a signature hormone–gland pair, and mixing them up is a common trap.
Let me examine each combination:
Analysis of each pairing
I. Addison's disease – Glucocorticoids – Adrenal
Addison's disease is primary adrenal insufficiency. The adrenal cortex fails to produce adequate steroid hormones, particularly glucocorticoids (cortisol) and mineralocorticoids (aldosterone). Patients present with weakness, hyperpigmentation, low blood pressure, and electrolyte imbalances. The hormone and gland are correctly identified.
This combination is correct.
II. Myxoedema – Thyroxine – Thyroid
Myxoedema is severe hypothyroidism in adults. The thyroid gland produces insufficient thyroxine (T4) and triiodothyronine (T3). Clinical features include puffy face, coarse skin, lethargy, weight gain, and slowed metabolism. The pairing is accurate.
This combination is correct.
III. Diabetes insipidus – Insulin – Pancreas
Diabetes insipidus involves massive water loss through dilute urine (polyuria) and intense thirst (polydipsia). The culprit is deficiency of antidiuretic hormone (ADH or vasopressin), secreted by the posterior pituitary, not insulin from the pancreas. Insulin deficiency causes diabetes mellitus, an entirely different disease marked by hyperglycemia.
Watch outThe similar name "diabetes" does not mean similar cause. Diabetes mellitus = insulin problem; diabetes insipidus = ADH problem.
This combination is incorrect.
IV. Tetany – Calcitonin – Parathyroid …
- TG EAPCET 2021Set ap-2021-08-10-FN1 markMCQQ.Study the following table and pick up the correct combinations: S.No Endocrine gland Hormone Deficiency disease I Hypothalamus Vasopressin Diabetes mellitus II Zona fasciculata of adrenal cortex Cortisol Addison's diseases III β-Cells of Islets of Langerhans of pancreas Glucagon Diabetes insipidus IV Pituitary gland Somatotropin Dwarfism (A) I, II (B) III, IV (C) II, IV (D) I, III
›Reveal solutionSolution
This question tests your knowledge of endocrine glands, the hormones they produce, and the deficiency diseases associated with those hormones. Only combinations II and IV are correct.
Understanding the intricate relationships between endocrine glands, the hormones they secrete, and the specific conditions that arise from hormone deficiencies or excesses is fundamental to endocrinology. Each gland has a primary hormone (or set of hormones) it produces, and these hormones have distinct physiological roles. When the production of a hormone is insufficient, a characteristic deficiency disease often results.
Let's evaluate each combination presented in the table:
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Evaluate Combination I: Hypothalamus, Vasopressin, Diabetes mellitus
- Gland and Hormone: The hypothalamus produces antidiuretic hormone (ADH), also known as vasopressin. However, vasopressin is released by the posterior pituitary gland, where it is stored. So, while the hypothalamus is involved in its production, the posterior pituitary is the primary site of release.
- Hormone and Deficiency Disease: A deficiency of vasopressin (ADH) leads to a condition called diabetes insipidus, characterized by excessive urination and thirst due to the kidneys' inability to conserve water.
- Diabetes mellitus is a completely different condition caused by either insufficient insulin production by the pancreas or the body's inability to effectively use the insulin it produces, leading to high blood glucose levels.
- Conclusion: This combination is incorrect because vasopressin deficiency causes diabetes insipidus, not diabetes mellitus.
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Evaluate Combination II: Zona fasciculata of adrenal cortex, Cortisol, Addison's disease
- Gland and Hormone: The adrenal cortex is divided into three layers. The zona fasciculata is the middle layer, and it is primarily responsible for producing glucocorticoids, the most important of which is cortisol.
- Hormone and Deficiency Disease: Addison's disease is a condition caused by chronic adrenal insufficiency, meaning the adrenal glands do not produce enough steroid hormones, particularly cortisol and often aldosterone.
- Conclusion: This combination is correct.
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Evaluate Combination III: β-Cells of Islets of Langerhans of pancreas, Glucagon, Diabetes insipidus …
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