Intrauterine growth restriction (IUGR) is associated with numerous pregnancy-related risk factors except:

Choice A reason: Congenital anomalies of the central nervous system are not a common complication of GDM, as they usually occur in the first trimester, before GDM develops. However, GDM can increase the risk of other congenital anomalies, such as cardiac defects or neural tube defects.

Choice B reason: Preterm birth is a possible complication of GDM, as it can be caused by maternal hypertension, preeclampsia, or placental abruption. However, it is not the most likely complication, as GDM can also delay the onset of labor and prolong the pregnancy.

Choice C reason: Low birth weight is not a typical complication of GDM, as it is more associated with intrauterine growth restriction (IUGR), which is caused by placental insufficiency. GDM can cause the opposite problem, which is excessive fetal growth.

Choice D reason: Macrosomia is the most common complication of GDM, as it is defined as a birth weight of more than 4,000 grams (8.8 pounds). It is caused by the excess glucose crossing the placenta and stimulating the fetal insulin production, which leads to increased fat deposition and organ enlargement. Macrosomia can increase the risk of birth trauma, shoulder dystocia, and neonatal hypoglycemia.

Choice A: Decreased production of erythrocytes

This is not the primary cause of iron deficiency anemia during pregnancy. While erythrocyte production may be affected in certain conditions, it is not directly linked to iron deficiency anemia in pregnancy¹.

Choice B: Inadequate intake of iron

This is the correct answer. During pregnancy, the body needs more iron to make hemoglobin for the increased volume of blood. If the intake of iron is not sufficient, it could lead to iron deficiency anemia¹.

Choice C: Dilution of hemoglobin concentration

While it's true that the blood volume increases during pregnancy, leading to a relative dilution of hemoglobin, this is not the primary cause of iron deficiency anemia. The main issue is the lack of sufficient iron intake¹.

Choice D: The fetus establishing iron stores

While the fetus does require iron, which it gets from the mother, this is not the primary cause of iron deficiency anemia during pregnancy. The main issue is still the mother's inadequate intake of iron¹.