North American Registry of Midwives (NARM) Practice Exam

What is the primary mode of HIV transmission among women globally?

1. Heterosexual transmission

2. Injection drug use

3. Blood transfusions

4. Mother-to-child transmission

The correct answer is: Heterosexual transmission

Heterosexual transmission is recognized as the primary mode of HIV transmission among women globally. This form of transmission occurs during sexual intercourse between an infected individual and a non-infected partner. Various factors contribute to this being the most prevalent route for women, including biological susceptibility, differences in the mucosal transmission potential between genders, and socio-cultural factors that may limit women's control over their sexual health and practices. In many regions, particularly in sub-Saharan Africa, data shows that the majority of HIV infections among women can be traced back to heterosexual relationships. Socioeconomic status, lack of access to healthcare and prevention resources, and varying cultural norms around sexuality and fidelity further exacerbate the risks associated with this mode of transmission. While other modes of transmission such as injection drug use, blood transfusions, and mother-to-child transmission do pose risks, they account for a smaller percentage of infections in women compared to heterosexual transmission. Injection drug use is often more prevalent in certain populations but does not primarily affect women globally in the same way. Blood transfusion risks are mitigated significantly in many countries due to improved screening practices, and mother-to-child transmission is primarily a concern during childbirth or breastfeeding but represents a lower overall percentage compared to the vast impact of heterosexual relationships. Thus,