Prenatal care in teenage mothers and about infant mortality in the United States
What can you tell your patient about prenatal care in teenage mothers and about infant mortality in the United States? Your answer should include something about:
Fetal alcohol syndrome
Spina bifida (folic acid)
Which prenatal development stage do you think is the most sensitive time for gestation? What happens during that stage, and why is it important?
What other behaviors of the mother may affect the health of a child before, or very early in, pregnancy? Include some of the following in your answer: exercise, diet, drug use, and smoking.
Sample Answer
Prenatal care for teenage mothers is crucial to ensure the health of both the mother and the baby. Early and regular prenatal care can help identify and address potential health risks, such as:
- Fetal alcohol syndrome (FAS): A condition caused by prenatal exposure to alcohol, which can lead to physical, cognitive, and behavioral problems in the child.
- Spina bifida: A birth defect that occurs when the spinal cord and vertebrae do not form properly. Taking folic acid supplements before and during pregnancy can help reduce the risk of spina bifida.