Recent evidence suggests that paternal alcohol use around the time of conception __________.

Correct Answer: A

Rationale: Recent evidence suggests that paternal alcohol use around the time of conception can alter gene expression. This means that paternal alcohol consumption can potentially impact the genes and genetic materials passed on to offspring, affecting their development and health. Choice B is incorrect because fetal alcohol syndrome is typically associated with maternal alcohol consumption during pregnancy, not paternal alcohol use around conception. Choice C is incorrect as there is no direct link between paternal alcohol use and blood vessel abnormalities. Choice D is incorrect as paternal alcohol use can indeed have negative effects on the developing organism, particularly through altering gene expression.

Correct Answer: D

Rationale: In healthy, physically fit women, regular moderate to vigorous exercise during pregnancy is related to improved fetal cardiovascular functioning. Regular exercise has been shown to benefit both the mother and baby by promoting better cardiovascular health and overall well-being during pregnancy. Choices A, B, and C are incorrect as exercise during pregnancy, when done appropriately, does not lead to lower birth weight, higher risk of premature birth, suppressed immune system development, or serious damage to the central nervous system. Instead, it is known to have positive effects on fetal development and maternal health.

Correct Answer: A

Rationale: Having access to social support during stressful periods can greatly reduce the effects of stress on the developing organism. Social support can provide emotional comfort, practical assistance, and a sense of belonging, which can help the expectant mother cope with stress more effectively. This support system can also help mitigate the negative impact of stress on the developing baby during pregnancy. Choices B, C, and D are incorrect because while folic acid is important for prenatal health, it does not directly address the effects of stress. Taking anti-anxiety medication should be done under medical supervision and as a last resort due to potential risks to the developing baby. Bed rest during the last trimester is not a solution to reduce the effects of stress and may not address the underlying causes of stress.

Correct Answer: B

Rationale: Maternal high blood glucose is linked to poorer memory in early childhood. Research has shown that exposure to high levels of maternal blood glucose during pregnancy may negatively impact a child's memory development in early childhood. This highlights the importance of managing blood glucose levels during pregnancy for the health and development of the child. Choices A, C, and D are incorrect because they do not reflect the established link between maternal high blood glucose and poorer memory in early childhood. Rh factor incompatibility is related to blood type differences between the mother and the fetus, low birth weight can be linked to various factors other than maternal blood glucose, and sharp increases in the mother's blood pressure are not directly associated with maternal high blood glucose.

Correct Answer: C

Rationale: During the third stage of labor, the correct answer is C, the placenta is delivered. This stage occurs after the baby is born and involves the expulsion of the placenta from the uterus. Choice A is incorrect because the thinning of the cervix to nothing typically occurs during the first stage of labor. Choice B is incorrect as uterine contractions usually begin during the first stage of labor to help with the dilation of the cervix. Choice D is incorrect because the baby is typically born in the second stage of labor, not the third.