Prenatal Care — MCQs

Prenatal Care Indian Medical PG Practice Questions and MCQs

Question 531: Anti-D prophylaxis is required in which of the following situations?

A. Routine antenatal visit at 20 weeks
B. Manual removal of placenta (Correct Answer)
C. Abortion at 63 days
D. Amniocentesis at 16 weeks

Explanation: ***Manual removal of placenta*** - Manual removal of placenta is a **sensitizing event** that carries a high risk of **feto-maternal hemorrhage** due to direct manipulation and potential placental disruption. - Anti-D prophylaxis is **mandatory** immediately following manual removal of placenta in all Rh-negative women to prevent **Rh alloimmunization**. - This is one of the most significant risk factors for maternal-fetal blood mixing requiring prophylaxis. *Routine antenatal visit at 20 weeks* - A routine antenatal visit at 20 weeks does **not** require anti-D prophylaxis. - Routine antenatal anti-D prophylaxis (RAADP) is recommended at **28 weeks** (and sometimes 34 weeks) of gestation for all Rh-negative pregnant women, not at routine 20-week visits. - The 20-week visit is typically for anatomical ultrasound screening, not for anti-D administration. *Abortion at 63 days* - While abortion at 63 days (approximately 9 weeks) **does require** anti-D prophylaxis, this is not the best answer. - Any spontaneous or induced abortion, especially after 12 weeks (though many guidelines recommend from 6-8 weeks onwards), requires anti-D prophylaxis in Rh-negative women. - However, compared to manual removal of placenta, this represents a lower volume sensitizing event. *Amniocentesis at 16 weeks* - While amniocentesis **does require** anti-D prophylaxis, this is not the best answer. - All invasive procedures (amniocentesis, CVS, cordocentesis) carry risk of fetal blood mixing with maternal circulation and require anti-D prophylaxis in Rh-negative women. - However, manual removal of placenta represents a higher risk scenario requiring immediate prophylaxis.

Question 532: Which of the following markers is not used in quadruple test for antenatal detection of Down syndrome?

A. Inhibin
B. Estradiol (Correct Answer)
C. AFP
D. ss-hCG

Explanation: ***Estradiol*** - **Estradiol** is a primary **estrogen** produced by the ovaries and placenta but is **not** one of the four markers included in the **quadruple screen** for Down syndrome. - The quadruple screen typically measures levels of **alpha-fetoprotein (AFP)**, **unconjugated estriol (uE3)**, **human chorionic gonadotropin (hCG)**, and **inhibin A**. *Inhibin* - **Inhibin A** is one of the four components of the **quadruple screen** for Down syndrome. - In pregnancies affected by Down syndrome, inhibin A levels are typically **elevated**. *AFP* - **Alpha-fetoprotein (AFP)** is a key component of the **quadruple screen**. - In a Down syndrome pregnancy, maternal serum AFP levels are typically **lower** than normal. *ss-hCG* - **Beta-human chorionic gonadotropin (β-hCG)** is a specific subunit of hCG and is one of the four markers in the **quadruple screen**. - In pregnancies with Down syndrome, maternal serum β-hCG levels are usually **elevated**.

Question 533: What is the most accurate method for dating pregnancy in the first trimester?

A. Mean sac diameter
B. Crown-rump length (Correct Answer)
C. Beta-hCG levels
D. Last menstrual period

Explanation: ***Crown-rump length*** - This is the **most accurate method** for dating pregnancy in the first trimester (up to 13 weeks 6 days) due to the **consistent growth rate** of the embryo/fetus during this period. - An ultrasound measurement of the **CRL** provides an estimated date of delivery (EDD) with an accuracy of +/- 5-7 days. *Mean sac diameter* - While useful for confirming an **intrauterine pregnancy**, **mean sac diameter (MSD)** is less accurate for dating than CRL, especially after 6 weeks gestation. - Its accuracy for dating is about +/- 1.5 weeks and is primarily used when an **embryo is not yet visible**. *Beta-hCG levels* - **Beta-human chorionic gonadotropin (hCG) levels** increase predictably in early pregnancy but are not a precise dating method due to wide variations between individuals and pregnancies. - They are primarily used to **confirm pregnancy** and monitor its progression, or to investigate complications like ectopic pregnancy or miscarriage. *Last menstrual period* - **Dating by last menstrual period (LMP)** is commonly used, but its accuracy depends on a regular menstrual cycle and the woman's recall, which can be unreliable. - It assumes a standard 28-day cycle with ovulation on day 14 and is **less accurate** than ultrasound measurements.

Question 534: Which vaccine is contraindicated in pregnancy?

A. Influenza
B. Rubella (Correct Answer)
C. Tetanus toxoid
D. Hepatitis B

Explanation: ***Rubella*** - The **rubella vaccine** is a **live attenuated vaccine**, which carries a theoretical risk of fetal infection and congenital rubella syndrome if administered during pregnancy. - For this reason, women are usually screened for immunity and vaccinated **pre-conception** or **postpartum**. *Influenza* - The **influenza vaccine** (inactivated form) is **recommended** during pregnancy to protect both the mother and newborn from severe influenza illness. - It is **safe** and **effective** for pregnant women at any stage of gestation. *Tetanus toxoid* - The **tetanus toxoid vaccine** (Tdap or Td) is **recommended** during each pregnancy to provide passive immunity to the newborn against pertussis (whooping cough), as well as protecting the mother from tetanus and diphtheria. - It is considered **safe** and ideally given between 27 and 36 weeks of gestation. *Hepatitis B* - The **hepatitis B vaccine** is **recommended** for pregnant women who are at high risk of hepatitis B infection, as a protective measure for both the mother and the fetus. - It is an **inactivated vaccine** and has not been shown to cause adverse effects in pregnancy.

Question 535: Which of the following is not a part of the quadruple test for antenatal detection of Down syndrome?

A. Beta HCG
B. AFP
C. Inhibin B (Correct Answer)
D. Estriol

Explanation: ***Inhibin B*** - The **quadruple test** uses **Inhibin A**, not Inhibin B, along with AFP, β-hCG, and unconjugated estriol to screen for Down syndrome. - **Inhibin B** is primarily associated with assessing ovarian reserve in non-pregnant women or testicular function in men. *Beta HCG* - **Elevated levels of beta-hCG** are characteristically seen in pregnancies affected by **Down syndrome**, making it a key component of the quadruple test. - This hormone is produced by the placenta and its measurement helps in risk assessment for chromosomal abnormalities. *AFP* - **Alpha-fetoprotein (AFP)** levels are typically **lower** in pregnancies with **Down syndrome**, contrasting with elevated levels in neural tube defects. - It is a fetal-specific protein and its measurement is crucial for the quadruple test's diagnostic accuracy. *Estriol* - **Unconjugated estriol (uE3)** levels are usually **decreased** in pregnancies affected by **Down syndrome**. - This steroid hormone is produced by the placenta and fetal adrenal glands, and its reduced levels are a significant marker in the quadruple test.

Question 536: 18 weeks pregnant female presents with no high risk of NTD and low risk of trisomy 21 on quad test. What is the most appropriate next step in management?

A. Repeat non-invasive screening test.
B. Perform invasive diagnostic testing.
C. Perform amniotic fluid analysis.
D. Perform a detailed fetal ultrasound. (Correct Answer)

Explanation: ***Perform a detailed fetal ultrasound.*** - A **detailed fetal ultrasound** (often referred to as an **anatomy scan**) at around 18-22 weeks is a standard component of prenatal care for all pregnant women, regardless of screening test results. - This ultrasound evaluates fetal anatomy for structural anomalies, assesses fetal growth, and confirms gestational age, providing crucial information even with low-risk screening. *Repeat non-invasive screening test.* - Repeating a non-invasive screening test (like another quad screen or NIPT) is generally **not indicated** when initial results show a low risk and there are no other clinical concerns. - Such tests are primarily for screening purposes, and a second low-risk result would offer little additional actionable information, as their positive predictive value is low. *Perform invasive diagnostic testing.* - **Invasive diagnostic testing**, such as **amniocentesis** or **chorionic villus sampling (CVS)**, carries a risk of miscarriage and is reserved for situations with a high risk of chromosomal abnormalities or genetic conditions. - Given the low-risk quad screen results for trisomy 21 and no high risk for NTDs, invasive testing is **not warranted** at this stage. *Perform amniotic fluid analysis.* - **Amniotic fluid analysis** is part of an amniocentesis, an **invasive diagnostic procedure** designed to detect chromosomal abnormalities or genetic disorders. - This procedure is typically reserved for cases where screening tests indicate a high risk or there is a clinical suspicion of a genetic condition; it's **not a routine step** after a low-risk quad screen.

Question 537: A pregnant woman is diagnosed with iron deficiency anemia during her second trimester. Which of the following interventions is most appropriate to prevent adverse outcomes?

A. Oral iron supplementation and dietary counseling (Correct Answer)
B. Only dietary counseling
C. Blood transfusion immediately
D. Intravenous iron supplementation

Explanation: ***Oral iron supplementation and dietary counseling*** - **Oral iron supplementation** is the **first-line treatment** for iron deficiency anemia in pregnancy, as it is effective and generally well-tolerated. - **Dietary counseling** helps improve iron intake from food sources and enhance absorption, complementing supplementation. *Only dietary counseling* - While **dietary counseling** is important, it is usually insufficient to correct established **iron deficiency anemia** during pregnancy due to increased iron demands. - Relying solely on diet can lead to prolonged anemia and **adverse maternal and fetal outcomes**. *Blood transfusion immediately* - **Blood transfusion** is reserved for cases of **severe, symptomatic anemia** or **hemodynamic instability**, which is not indicated here. - This intervention carries risks of **transfusion reactions** and is not the standard approach for moderate iron deficiency in pregnancy. *Intravenous iron supplementation* - **Intravenous iron** is considered for women who cannot tolerate or absorb oral iron, have severe anemia in late pregnancy, or in cases of non-compliance. - It is a more invasive option with potential side effects and is not the initial treatment of choice for a woman in her second trimester without severe symptoms.

Question 538: A 28-year-old woman at 10 weeks of gestation presents with severe vomiting, weight loss, and ketonuria. What is the most likely diagnosis?

A. Gastroenteritis
B. Hyperemesis gravidarum (Correct Answer)
C. Preeclampsia
D. Gestational diabetes

Explanation: ***Hyperemesis gravidarum*** - Characterized by **severe nausea and vomiting** during pregnancy, typically in the **first trimester**, leading to **weight loss >5% of pre-pregnancy weight** and **ketonuria**. - It is distinct from typical morning sickness due to its severity and metabolic disturbances (dehydration, electrolyte imbalance, ketosis). - Most cases resolve by 20 weeks of gestation. *Gastroenteritis* - While it causes vomiting and may lead to ketonuria, it is typically an **acute, self-limiting viral or bacterial infection** lasting days, not weeks. - It would not typically present as a chronic condition causing significant weight loss over an extended period in pregnancy. - Usually accompanied by **diarrhea**, which is not mentioned in this case. *Preeclampsia* - This condition is characterized by **new-onset hypertension and proteinuria** after 20 weeks of gestation. - At **10 weeks gestation**, it is too early for preeclampsia to develop. - Vomiting can occur in severe cases, but it's not the primary symptom, and weight loss and ketonuria are not typical diagnostic features. *Gestational diabetes* - This involves **glucose intolerance** that develops or is first recognized during pregnancy, typically diagnosed at **24-28 weeks**. - Symptoms usually include **polyuria, polydipsia, and fatigue**, not severe vomiting, weight loss, or ketonuria. - Ketonuria in diabetes suggests ketoacidosis, which would present with hyperglycemia, not the clinical picture described.

Question 539: A 29-year-old woman with a history of preeclampsia in a previous pregnancy presents at 12 weeks of gestation. What is the recommended prophylactic treatment?

A. Aspirin (Correct Answer)
B. Calcium supplements
C. Methyldopa
D. Labetalol

Explanation: ***Aspirin*** - **Low-dose aspirin** is recommended for women with a history of preeclampsia, especially when started early in pregnancy (before 16 weeks of gestation). - It helps reduce the risk of recurrent preeclampsia by improving **placental perfusion** and inhibiting platelet aggregation. *Calcium supplements* - While recommended for women with **low dietary calcium intake**, calcium supplementation alone does not have the same strong evidence for prophylactic preeclampsia prevention as aspirin. - It's often used as an adjunct in high-risk pregnancies, but not typically as the primary prophylactic agent in this specific scenario. *Methyldopa* - **Methyldopa** is an **antihypertensive medication** used to treat existing hypertension in pregnancy. - It does not serve as a primary prophylactic agent to prevent the development of preeclampsia in a woman with a history of the condition. *Labetalol* - **Labetalol** is another **antihypertensive medication** commonly used to manage acute or chronic hypertension during pregnancy. - Similar to methyldopa, it is a treatment for established hypertension rather than a prophylactic measure against preeclampsia recurrence.

Question 540: In the context of prenatal care, what is the significance of the double marker test?

A. It detects neural tube defects.
B. It assesses the risk of Down syndrome. (Correct Answer)
C. It evaluates fetal lung maturity.
D. It screens for gestational diabetes.

Explanation: ***It assesses the risk of Down syndrome.*** - The **double marker test** measures levels of **free beta-human chorionic gonadotropin (hCG)** and **pregnancy-associated plasma protein-A (PAPP-A)** in maternal blood. - Abnormal levels of these markers, particularly a **high hCG** and **low PAPP-A**, are indicative of an increased risk of **Down syndrome (Trisomy 21)**. *It detects neural tube defects.* - **Neural tube defects** are primarily screened for using **alpha-fetoprotein (AFP)** levels, often part of the quadruple screen or maternal serum screening. - The double marker test components (hCG and PAPP-A) are not reliable markers for neural tube defects. *It evaluates fetal lung maturity.* - **Fetal lung maturity** is typically assessed later in pregnancy, often through analysis of **amniotic fluid** for ratios like **lecithin-sphingomyelin (L/S ratio)** or presence of **phosphatidylglycerol**. - The double marker test is performed in the first trimester and does not provide information about fetal lung development. *It screens for gestational diabetes.* - **Gestational diabetes** screening is performed later in pregnancy, usually between **24 and 28 weeks**, using a **glucose challenge test** followed by an oral glucose tolerance test if necessary. - The double marker test biomarkers are unrelated to glucose metabolism or the screening for gestational diabetes.

Practice by Chapter

Preconception Counseling

Practice Questions

Pregnancy Diagnosis and Dating

Practice Questions

Routine Antenatal Assessments

Practice Questions

Maternal Physiological Changes

Practice Questions

Nutrition in Pregnancy

Practice Questions

Screening Tests in Pregnancy

Practice Questions

Fetal Growth Assessment

Practice Questions

High-Risk Pregnancy Identification

Practice Questions

Antenatal Complications Management

Practice Questions

Psychosocial Aspects of Pregnancy

Practice Questions

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