American Board of Internal Medicine Certification Practice Exam 2025 – Comprehensive All-in-One Guide to Pass Your ABIM Certification!

Progestin-only contraceptive methods, such as the mini-pill, certain intrauterine devices (IUDs), and injectables like Depo-Provera, carry specific risks associated with their mechanism of action and effects on the body. While these methods are generally considered to have a favorable safety profile, one potential risk involves hormonal side effects due to the progestin component. However, it is important to distinguish that progestin-only methods do not significantly increase the risk of venous thromboembolism compared to combined hormonal contraceptive methods, which include both estrogen and progestin.

The correct answer highlights that progestin-only contraceptive methods do not carry an increased risk for thromboembolism when compared with the baseline risk in the general population. This is a significant consideration in clinical practice, especially for patients who may have a higher baseline risk for thrombotic events due to factors such as obesity, smoking, or previous thrombotic events.

In terms of the other options, progestin-only methods may result in side effects like breakthrough bleeding or menstrual irregularities, which may not be classified as severe hormonal side effects. While they are associated with a potential for mild elevations in blood pressure, studies have not shown a consistent,