North American Registry of Midwives (NARM) Practice Exam

Which forms of birth control are known to decrease the risk of PID (pelvic inflammatory disease)?

1. Oral contraceptives and IUDs

2. Diaphragms and cervical caps with vaginal spermicides

3. Implants and hormone patches

4. Withdrawal method and natural cycles

The correct answer is: Diaphragms and cervical caps with vaginal spermicides

The choice indicating that diaphragms and cervical caps with vaginal spermicides are known to decrease the risk of pelvic inflammatory disease (PID) reflects an understanding of how certain forms of barrier methods contribute to reproductive health. Diaphragms and cervical caps create a physical barrier that prevents sperm from entering the uterus, thus also limiting the potential for sexually transmitted infections (STIs) traveling into the upper reproductive tract. With the right application of vaginal spermicides, these devices can enhance this protective effect. Adequate use of these methods can lead to a reduction in the incidence of infections that often lead to PID since they can help to prevent the introduction of pathogens into the reproductive system. Other options, despite their effectiveness in preventing pregnancy, do not have the same association with a decreased risk of PID. Some, like oral contraceptives, primarily work through hormonal regulation and do not provide a barrier to potential infections. Each type of birth control offers various benefits, but understanding the specific impact on PID highlights the unique role that barrier methods play in terms of both contraceptive effectiveness and sexually transmitted infection prevention.