North American Registry of Midwives (NARM) Practice Exam

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What serious complication can arise due to vasa previa?

Maternal hemorrhage
Fetal anoxia
Placenta previa
Increased chance of C-section

The correct answer is: Fetal anoxia

Vasa previa is a condition characterized by fetal blood vessels that run across or near the internal cervical os, which can rupture during labor or when the membranes break. This rupture can lead to significant complications for the fetus. One of the most serious complications that can arise is fetal anoxia, which is a lack of oxygen supply to the fetal tissues. When the blood vessels break, it can cause rapid fetal exsanguination or loss of blood, leading to insufficient oxygen delivery to the body and ultimately resulting in fetal distress or even death if not promptly addressed. While maternal hemorrhage can also be a concern in the context of vasa previa, the most critical direct risk affects the fetus, making fetal anoxia a primary focus. Placenta previa is a separate condition involving the placement of the placenta and does not directly relate to the risks associated with vasa previa. Similarly, while vasa previa may increase the likelihood of cesarean delivery due to the risks it poses, this is not the most serious complication associated with the condition.