A woman with chronic hypertension on labetalol conceives and continues the drug. Which fetal effect of beta blockade should be specifically monitored during antenatal surveillance?
- A Macrosomia
- B Fetal growth restriction ✓
- C Polyhydramnios
- D Fetal tachycardia
Correct answer: B. Fetal growth restriction
Explanation
Beta blockers given throughout pregnancy are associated with fetal growth restriction, so serial growth scans are advised when labetalol is continued. Beta blockade also causes neonatal bradycardia, hypoglycaemia and hypotonia rather than tachycardia. Polyhydramnios and macrosomia are not recognised effects of maternal antihypertensive therapy.
Reference: Williams Obstetrics, 26th ed.
High-yield for: NEET PGINI-CETNExTFMGEUSMLEPLABMRCP
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