CMA Nutrition & Wellness in Pregnancy

Question 1

The recommended total weight gain during pregnancy for a woman with a normal pre-pregnancy BMI (18.5–24.9) is:

Accepted Answer

25–35 lbs

Answer

The Institute of Medicine recommends a total weight gain of 25–35 lbs for women with a normal pre-pregnancy BMI.

Question 2

Which nutrient deficiency during pregnancy is most associated with neural tube defects such as spina bifida?

Accepted Answer

Folic acid

Answer

Inadequate folic acid (folate/vitamin B9) during early neural tube formation (weeks 3–4) significantly increases the risk of neural tube defects.

Question 3

Pregnant women should avoid which type of fish due to high mercury content?

Accepted Answer

Shark, swordfish, king mackerel, and tilefish

Answer

The FDA advises pregnant women to avoid high-mercury fish (shark, swordfish, king mackerel, tilefish, bigeye tuna) due to risk of fetal neurological damage.

Question 4

Gestational diabetes is best managed with which primary intervention?

Accepted Answer

Medical nutrition therapy (MNT) as first-line treatment

Answer

Medical nutrition therapy — controlling carbohydrate intake, meal timing, and food choices — is the cornerstone first-line treatment for gestational diabetes.

Question 5

Daily calcium requirements increase during pregnancy to approximately:

Accepted Answer

1000 mg/day

Answer

Pregnant women need approximately 1000 mg of calcium daily to support fetal bone and teeth development without depleting maternal bone density.

CMA - Certified Midwife Assistant Practice Test

CMA - Certified Midwife Assistant Practice Test

CMA Nutrition & Wellness in Pregnancy