Physiological sterility is present in which of the following conditions?
A. Tuberculosis
B. Endometriosis
C. Before puberty
D. Asherman syndrome
Correct Answer: C. Before puberty
Explanation
Physiological sterility means a normal, temporary inability to conceive due to natural physiological conditions (not disease).
It is present in the following conditions:
- Pre-puberty – reproductive organs are not mature
- Pregnancy – ovulation does not occur
- Lactation (breastfeeding period) – hormonal changes suppress ovulation
- Post-menopause – ovarian function has ceased
✅ Correct concept: Physiological sterility occurs during pregnancy, lactation, before puberty, and after menopause.
Other Options Details
Here is a clear explanation of all the options, commonly asked in relation to infertility / sterility in gynecology:
A. Tuberculosis
- Genital tuberculosis can affect the fallopian tubes, endometrium, and ovaries.
- It may cause tubal blockage, adhesions, and endometrial damage, leading to infertility.
- This is a pathological (disease-related) cause, not physiological.
B. Endometriosis
- A condition in which endometrial tissue grows outside the uterus.
- Causes pelvic pain, dysmenorrhea, adhesions, and infertility.
- Infertility occurs due to distorted pelvic anatomy and inflammation.
- This is also a pathological condition.
C. Before Puberty
- The reproductive system is not yet mature.
- Ovulation does not occur; hormonal axis is inactive.
- This is a normal physiological state, so the inability to conceive is called physiological sterility.
D. Asherman Syndrome
- Characterized by intrauterine adhesions due to trauma (e.g., repeated D&C, infections).
- Leads to amenorrhea, infertility, and recurrent pregnancy loss.
- This is a pathological cause of infertility.
✅ Key Point
- Physiological sterility is seen before puberty (Option C).
- The other options are pathological causes of infertility.
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Writer: Vandita Singh,Lucknow (GS India Nursing Group