Post-term Pregnancy (Postmaturity) Quiz

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Questions and Answers

What is the definition of post-term pregnancy?

Pregnancy beyond 45 weeks

Pregnancy beyond 40 weeks

Pregnancy beyond 42 weeks (correct)

Pregnancy beyond 37 weeks

Why is post-term pregnancy considered a problem?

The baby is at its maximum size

The placenta becomes less efficient

The placenta is more prone to failure

All of the above (correct)

How can the maturity of a pregnancy be diagnosed if the date of the last menstrual period is absolutely certain?

By performing a CTG at and after 42 weeks

By assessing uterine size between the 8th and 14th weeks (correct)

By performing an ultrasound scan at 20 weeks

By checking the date of first felt fetal movements

Which measurements give a reliable indication of the duration of gestation up to about the 14th week?

U/S measurements of the crown-rump length of the fetus Signup and view all the answers

What is a reliable test to assess maturity if the menstrual history is uncertain?

Assessment of uterine size between the 8th and 14th weeks Signup and view all the answers

Which tests can predict fetal outcome post-term?

Ultrasound if amniotic fluid and fetal growth are normal Signup and view all the answers

What is a potential disadvantage of delayed onset of labor after term?

Mechanical difficulties during labor due to increased size of the fetus Signup and view all the answers

What factor may contribute to the increased risk of hypoxia in postmature cases?

Hypertension Signup and view all the answers

In postmature cases, what hazard is associated with the new born baby?

Meconium aspiration Signup and view all the answers

When counseling parents regarding waiting for labor to start naturally after 42 weeks, what should the woman be made aware of?

No test can guarantee the safety of her baby and perinatal mortality is increased beyond 42 weeks Signup and view all the answers

What should be checked before making a decision to induce labor?

Cervix ripeness (length, softness, position, and dilatation) Signup and view all the answers

How may labor be induced?

Vaginal prostaglandin pessaries or gel Signup and view all the answers

What is required for monitoring the progress of labor and the condition of the fetus?

Very careful monitoring Signup and view all the answers

When may Caesarean section be necessary during the first stage of labor?

Cardiotocographic evidence of fetal hypoxia, preferably confirmed by examination of a sample of fetal blood obtained by scalp puncture Signup and view all the answers

'A labor induced post-term is more likely to require what?'

'Caesarean section' Signup and view all the answers

Study Notes

Definition and Risks of Post-Term Pregnancy

Post-term pregnancy is defined as a pregnancy that extends beyond 42 weeks of gestation.
Post-term pregnancy is considered a problem due to the increased risks of fetal and maternal complications.

Assessing Gestational Age

If the date of the last menstrual period (LMP) is certain, the maturity of the pregnancy can be diagnosed accurately.
Measurements up to the 14th week that provide a reliable indication of gestational age include:
- Crown-rump length (CRL)
- Biparietal diameter (BPD)

Assessing Fetal Maturity with Uncertain Menstrual History

A reliable test to assess fetal maturity when the menstrual history is uncertain is a ultrasound scan.

Predicting Fetal Outcome

Tests that can predict fetal outcome in post-term pregnancies include:
- Biophysical profile (BPP)
- Non-stress test (NST)

Complications of Post-Term Pregnancy

A potential disadvantage of delayed onset of labor after term is an increased risk of:
- Fetal hypoxia
- Meconium aspiration syndrome
Factors contributing to the increased risk of hypoxia in postmature cases include:
- Placental insufficiency
- Umbilical cord compression
Hazards associated with postmature newborns include:
- Hypoglycemia
- Hypothermia
- Polycythemia

Counseling and Induction of Labor

When counseling parents regarding waiting for labor to start naturally after 42 weeks, the woman should be made aware of:
- The risks of post-term pregnancy
- The importance of fetal monitoring
Before making a decision to induce labor, the following should be checked:
- Cervical ripeness
- Fetal well-being
Labor can be induced using:
- Oxytocin
- Artificial rupture of membranes (AROM)

Monitoring Labor and Fetal Condition

Continuous electronic fetal monitoring (EFM) is required to monitor the progress of labor and the condition of the fetus.

Cesarean Section

A cesarean section may be necessary during the first stage of labor if:
- Fetal distress is detected
- Labor is obstructed
A labor induced post-term is more likely to require a cesarean section.

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Description

Test your knowledge about the definition, diagnosis, and implications of post-term pregnancy, which occurs when a pregnancy extends beyond 42 weeks gestation. Understand the risks associated with a post-term pregnancy for both the baby and the mother.