Professional and Linguistic Assessments Board (PLAB) Practice Exam

What is the most common cause of ectopic pregnancy?

1. Endometriosis

2. Pelvic inflammatory disease (PID)

3. Ovarian cysts

4. Uterine fibroids

The correct answer is: Pelvic inflammatory disease (PID)

Pelvic inflammatory disease (PID) is recognized as the most common cause of ectopic pregnancy due to its impact on the female reproductive system. PID is an infection of the female reproductive organs, often resulting from sexually transmitted infections such as chlamydia or gonorrhea. This condition can lead to scarring and damage to the fallopian tubes, which may disrupt the normal passage of a fertilized egg. When a fertilized egg cannot reach the uterus due to these obstructions or damage, it may implant outside the uterus, typically in a fallopian tube, leading to an ectopic pregnancy. While endometriosis, ovarian cysts, and uterine fibroids can contribute to various reproductive health issues and may play a role in infertility or other complications, they are not the primary causes of ectopic pregnancies. Endometriosis can sometimes affect the anatomical layout of the pelvic organs, but its direct role in ectopic pregnancies is less significant compared to the damage caused by PID. Ovarian cysts and uterine fibroids, although they can cause discomfort and complications in some cases, have not been established as common causes of ectopic pregnancies. Thus, PID stands out as the leading risk factor for this serious reproductive condition.