Rubella is a sexually transmitted infection (STI) caused by a virus. Describe the risks that rubella poses to a pregnant woman and her fetus, and state two ways in which the spread of sexually transmitted infections can be reduced.

Cambridge International IGCSE Biology (0610) — 16.5 Sexually transmitted infections · Describe · 4 marks · View as Markdown

Written & reviewed by James Millett — Biology (Imperial College London), PGCE Science (University of Cambridge).

Model answer (4 marks)

Rubella can cause miscarriage or still‑birth if a woman becomes infected during pregnancy.

Rubella is spread by sexual contact and through bodily fluids.

Using condoms reduces the spread of STIs by acting as a barrier to infected bodily fluids.

Abstinence, i.e. refraining from sexual intercourse, also reduces the spread of STIs.

Examiner tips

  • Use the exact phrase "miscarriage or still‑birth" to gain the full mark for the risk. Mention both "sexual contact" and "bodily fluids" to cover the transmission route. State both prevention methods (condoms and abstinence) to meet the two‑point requirement.
  • common_mistakes
  • :
  • Writing "birth defects" instead of "miscarriage or still‑birth". Omitting the word "bodily" in the transmission route. Failing to list both prevention methods, giving only one.

Mark scheme (4 marks)

  1. Rubella poses a risk of miscarriage or still-birth to the pregnant woman / fetus
  2. Rubella is spread via sexual contact / bodily fluids (accept: it is an STI transmitted through sexual intercourse)
  3. Use of condoms reduces the spread of STIs (by acting as a barrier to infected bodily fluids)
  4. Abstinence (refraining from sexual intercourse) reduces the spread of STIs

Key terms in this question

sexually transmitted infection (STI) · rubella

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