Which of the following is a risk associated with the use of a diaphragm?

Which of the following is a risk associated with the use of a diaphragm?

• A. Thrombosis
• B. Urinary Tract Infection (UTI)
• C. Vaginal cancer
• D. Pelvic inflammatory disease

Answer: (B)

The use of a diaphragm as a contraceptive method can increase the risk of urinary tract infections (UTIs). This occurs because a diaphragm can create pressure on the urethra or lead to irritation in the vaginal area, which can facilitate the introduction of bacteria into the urinary tract. Additionally, diaphragms must be used with spermicide, which can further affect the normal flora of the vagina and may contribute to an increased risk of UTIs. The other associations mentioned do not have a direct link to the diaphragm. For instance, thrombosis is more commonly associated with hormonal contraceptives, not barrier methods like diaphragms. Vaginal cancer is not recognized as a risk associated with diaphragm use, and while pelvic inflammatory disease (PID) can result from sexually transmitted infections, the diaphragm itself does not directly cause this condition. However, improper use or leaving the diaphragm in place for longer than recommended may contribute to an environment that could facilitate such infections. Nonetheless, the significant and more frequently noted risk is indeed an increase in UTIs among diaphragm users.

The use of a diaphragm as a contraceptive method can increase the risk of urinary tract infections (UTIs). This occurs because a diaphragm can create pressure on the urethra or lead to irritation in the vaginal area, which can facilitate the introduction of bacteria into the urinary tract. Additionally, diaphragms must be used with spermicide, which can further affect the normal flora of the vagina and may contribute to an increased risk of UTIs.

The other associations mentioned do not have a direct link to the diaphragm. For instance, thrombosis is more commonly associated with hormonal contraceptives, not barrier methods like diaphragms. Vaginal cancer is not recognized as a risk associated with diaphragm use, and while pelvic inflammatory disease (PID) can result from sexually transmitted infections, the diaphragm itself does not directly cause this condition. However, improper use or leaving the diaphragm in place for longer than recommended may contribute to an environment that could facilitate such infections. Nonetheless, the significant and more frequently noted risk is indeed an increase in UTIs among diaphragm users.