Question Easy:
A 24-year-old woman, who is 10 weeks pregnant, presents to the antenatal clinic for her first visit. She is asking about which dietary supplement she should take to reduce the risk of neural tube defects in the baby. What do you advise? 🍏
A) Vitamin C
B) Folic acid
C) Omega-3 fatty acids
D) Vitamin B12
E) Vitamin D
Question Medium:
A 30-year-old woman presents to the clinic with heavy menstrual bleeding (menorrhagia) that affects her quality of life. She has no desire to conceive in the near future. What is the first-line management option according to NICE guidelines? 🩸
A) Tranexamic acid
B) Combined oral contraceptive pill
C) Mirena (levonorgestrel-releasing intrauterine system)
D) Non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs
E) Endometrial ablation
Question Hard:
A 35-year-old pregnant woman at 34 weeks’ gestation presents with sudden onset of painful vaginal bleeding and uterine contractions. She has a history of hypertension. What is the most likely diagnosis? 🚨
A) Placenta previa
B) Vasa previa
C) Uterine rupture
D) Placental abruption
E) Cervical ectropion
Explanations & Answers:
Question Easy Answer: B
Question Easy Explanation: Folic acid is recommended for women who are pregnant or planning pregnancy, at a dose of 400 micrograms daily up to 12 weeks of pregnancy. This supplementation helps to significantly reduce the risk of neural tube defects in the developing fetus. According to NHS guidelines, all pregnant women should take folic acid supplements during the first trimester.
Question Medium Answer: C
Question Medium Explanation: For women experiencing heavy menstrual bleeding who do not wish to become pregnant, NICE guidelines recommend the Mirena coil (levonorgestrel-releasing intrauterine system) as the first-line treatment option. It effectively reduces menstrual blood loss and can significantly improve quality of life.
Question Hard Answer: D
Question Hard Explanation: The clinical presentation of painful vaginal bleeding, uterine contractions, and a history of hypertension suggests placental abruption. This condition involves the premature separation of the placenta from the uterine wall and can compromise fetal oxygenation, requiring immediate medical attention. Hypertension is a known risk factor.
Medical fact of the day: In the UK, the average age for first-time mothers is now over 30 years, reflecting social trends and advances in reproductive technologies.
Quote of the day: “In the realm of healthcare, compassion is as vital as any medicine. Though resources may dwindle, a kind word remains inexhaustible.” 🌟