CPM Certified Professional Midwife

Category - Maternal Health Assessment

A 35-year-old visits the midwife after a home pregnancy test indicated a positive result. The client informs the midwife that the pregnancy is not planned and that she has been taking progestin-only birth control pills for the past year. During the history taking, the client informs the midwife that she has been taking isotretinoin for her severe, recalcitrant cystic acne for three months before the pregnancy. The client drinks at least three bottles of beer a day and is taking cocaine on a daily basis. Based on the client’s history, which of the following substances is least likely to cause birth defects?
  1. Progestin-only pills
  2. Isotretinoin
  3. Alcohol
  4. Cocaine
Explanation
Answer: A - Progestin-only birth control pills are least likely to cause birth defects. Research reveals that the risk of females who were on progestin-only birth control pills having babies with birth defects is no higher than the general population. Isotretinoin may cause dysplastic ears, microcephaly or facial dysmorphism. Alcohol may cause craniofacial abnormalities. Cocaine causes birth defects that usually involve the urinary tract.
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