A nurse in a prenatal clinic is caring for a client who asks what her estimated date of delivery will be if her last menstrual period was May 4, 2022.
Which of the following is the appropriate response by the nurse?

Choice A rationale

Regular exercise is generally safe and beneficial for pregnant women. It can help manage weight gain, improve mood and energy levels, and reduce pregnancy discomfort. Daily jogging for up to 30 minutes is acceptable throughout the pregnancy as long as the woman feels comfortable and her healthcare provider has not indicated otherwise.

Choice B rationale

Activities that elevate body temperature, such as saunas and hot tubs, are not recommended during pregnancy. High body temperatures can be harmful to the fetus, especially during the first trimester.

Choice C rationale

Exercise during pregnancy is generally recommended unless there are specific health concerns or complications that make it unsafe. It’s always important for pregnant women to consult with their healthcare provider before starting or continuing an exercise regimen.

Choice D rationale

While stretching activities can be a part of a balanced exercise routine during pregnancy, they should not be the only form of exercise. A combination of aerobic and strength-conditioning exercises is typically recommended.

Choice A rationale

A 38-year-old client who reports smoking one pack of cigarettes every day. Oral contraceptives are contraindicated in women who are over 35 years old and smoke. This is because the combination of oral contraceptives and smoking increases the risk of serious cardiovascular side effects, such as blood clots, stroke, or heart attack. These risks are even higher in women over 35 years old who smoke. Therefore, this client should not receive oral contraceptives due to the increased risk of these serious side effects.

Choice B rationale

A 28-year-old client who has a history of pelvic inflammatory disease. While pelvic inflammatory disease (PID) can lead to complications such as infertility and ectopic pregnancy, it is not a contraindication for the use of oral contraceptives. In fact, oral contraceptives can provide some protection against PID by causing changes in the cervix that make it more resistant to infection.

Choice C rationale

A 32-year-old client who has benign breast disease. Benign breast disease is not a contraindication for the use of oral contraceptives. While some studies have suggested a slightly increased risk of breast cancer in women who have used oral contraceptives, the risk appears to decrease over time once the contraceptives are stopped.

Choice D rationale

A 26-year-old client who has migraine headaches at the start of each menstrual cycle. While migraines can be a contraindication for the use of oral contraceptives, it generally applies to migraines with aura. Women who have migraines with aura have an increased risk of stroke when using oral contraceptives. However, for women who have migraines without aura, the benefits of using oral contraceptives usually outweigh the risks.