Which analysis of maternal serum may predict chromosomal abnormalities in the fetus?

Choice A reason: Progesterone is the hormone that stimulates the development of the alveoli and lobules of the mammary glands during pregnancy. It prepares the breasts for lactation by increasing the number and size of the milk-producing cells.

Choice B reason: Testosterone is the main male sex hormone that is responsible for the development of male reproductive organs and secondary sex characteristics. It has no direct role in the maturation of mammary gland tissue.

Choice C reason: Prolactin is the hormone that initiates and maintains milk production after childbirth. It is secreted by the anterior pituitary gland in response to suckling or nipple stimulation. It does not affect the maturation of mammary gland tissue.

Choice D reason: Estrogen is the hormone that stimulates the growth of the duct system of the mammary glands during puberty and pregnancy. It also promotes the development of female reproductive organs and secondary sex characteristics. It does not affect the maturation of mammary gland tissue.

Choice A reason: Low birth weight is not a common complication of GDM, as the fetus tends to grow larger than normal due to the excess glucose and insulin in the blood. Low birth weight is more likely to occur in infants of mothers with preexisting diabetes or other conditions that affect placental function.

Choice B reason: Preterm birth is a possible complication of GDM, as the increased fetal size and the risk of maternal hypertension or infection may induce labor before term. However, it is not the greatest risk for the fetus, as preterm infants can survive with proper care and treatment.

Choice C reason: Macrosomia is the greatest risk for the fetus of a mother with GDM, as it is defined as a birth weight of more than 4000 g or 8 lb 13 oz. Macrosomia can cause difficulties during labor and delivery, such as shoulder dystocia, birth trauma, or cesarean birth. It can also increase the risk of neonatal hypoglycemia, jaundice, or respiratory distress.

Choice D reason: Congenital anomalies of the central nervous system are not a common complication of GDM, as they usually occur in the first trimester of pregnancy, before GDM is diagnosed or develops. Congenital anomalies are more likely to occur in infants of mothers with preexisting diabetes or other genetic or environmental factors.