While talking with a pregnant woman who has undergone genetic testing, the woman informs the nurse that her baby will be born with Down syndrome. The nurse understands that Down syndrome is an example of:

Choice A Reason: This is correct because this response provides realistic and supportive advice for a woman who wants to have a baby with lupus. Lupus is an autoimmune disease that causes inflammation and damage to various organs and tissues. Lupus can affect fertility and pregnancy outcomes, such as increasing the risk of miscarriage, preterm delivery, preeclampsia, or neonatal lupus. Therefore, it is important for the woman to have her lupus under control before conceiving and to consult with her doctor about her treatment plan and prenatal care.

Choice B Reason: This is incorrect because this response is discouraging and insensitive for the woman who wants to have a baby with lupus. Lupus does not necessarily prevent a woman from having a healthy pregnancy and a healthy baby, as long as she follows her doctor's recommendations and monitors her condition closely. The nurse should respect the woman's reproductive choices and provide information and support.

Choice C Reason: This is incorrect because this response is inaccurate and misleading for the woman who wants to have a baby with lupus. Lupus can have various effects on pregnancy, such as causing flares or complications that can affect both the mother and the baby. The nurse should educate the woman about the possible risks and benefits of pregnancy with lupus and help her prepare for any challenges.

Choice D Reason: This is incorrect because this response is vague and alarming for the woman who wants to have a baby with lupus. Lupus treatment may or may not change during pregnancy, depending on the type and severity of lupus, the medications used, and the stage of pregnancy. The nurse should explain the rationale and safety of any medication changes and address any concerns or questions that the woman may have.

Choice A Reason: This is correct because recurrent pelvic infections, such as pelvic inflammatory disease (PID), can cause scarring and inflammation of the fallopian tubes, which can impair the normal movement of the fertilized egg to the uterus. This can increase the risk of ectopic pregnancy, which is a life-threatening condition where the fertilized egg implants outside the uterine cavity, usually in the fallopian tube.

Choice B Reason: This is incorrect because ovarian cysts are fluid-filled sacs that develop in or on the ovaries. They are usually benign and do not affect fertility or pregnancy. However, some types of ovarian cysts, such as endometriomas or dermoid cysts, may require surgery to remove them, which can cause damage to the ovaries or fallopian tubes and increase the risk of ectopic pregnancy.

Choice C Reason: This is incorrect because use of oral contraceptives for 8 years is not a risk factor for ectopic pregnancy. In fact, oral contraceptives can reduce the risk of ectopic pregnancy by preventing ovulation and fertilization. However, if a woman becomes pregnant while taking oral contraceptives, she should stop taking them and consult her doctor, as they may have adverse effects on the developing fetus.

Choice D Reason: This is incorrect because heavy, irregular periods are not a risk factor for ectopic pregnancy. They may indicate other conditions such as hormonal imbalance, uterine fibroids, polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS), or endometriosis, which can affect fertility or pregnancy, but not necessarily cause ectopic pregnancy.