North American Registry of Midwives (NARM) Practice Exam

What method is commonly used to diagnose conditions like battledore placenta?

1. Ultrasound imaging

2. Physical examination

3. Blood tests

4. MRI scans

The correct answer is: Ultrasound imaging

Ultrasound imaging is a widely utilized method for diagnosing various placental conditions, including battledore placenta. This technique employs high-frequency sound waves to create images of the developing fetus and the placenta. In the case of battledore placenta, where the umbilical cord is attached at the margin of the placenta rather than its center, ultrasound can provide clear visual evidence of this abnormality. Through ultrasound, practitioners can assess the position of the placenta, monitor fetal growth, and identify any complications related to the placenta or umbilical cord. The ability to visualize these structures in real time makes ultrasound an essential tool in prenatal care, enabling timely interventions if necessary. Other methods, such as physical examination, may offer limited insights into placental positioning or abnormalities, while blood tests and MRI scans are not standard for diagnosing battledore placenta specifically. Thus, ultrasound imaging stands out as the most efficient and effective method for this purpose.