A 32-year-old pregnant woman (G2P1) presents for routine prenatal care at 17 weeks of gestation, confirmed by her last menstrual period and an earlier ultrasound. She has no significant medical or genetic history, and her first pregnancy was uncomplicated, resulting in the delivery of a healthy baby. Her family history is also unremarkable for genetic disorders or birth defects. During this visit, she undergoes a second-trimester maternal serum screening (quadruple screen) as part of routine prenatal care. What is the primary marker associated with neural tube defects in maternal serum screening?

Joanna is a 28-year-old woman, currently 20 weeks pregnant with her second pregnancy. Her first pregnancy ended in a miscarriage at 10 weeks. She presents for a routine prenatal care visit. Joanna has no history of chronic illnesses or allergies, and her current pregnancy has been uncomplicated so far. During the visit, Joanna is counseled about the importance of vaccinations during pregnancy. The Tdap vaccine is discussed as essential between 27 and 36 weeks of gestation. Why is the Tdap vaccine specifically administered between 27-36 weeks of pregnancy?

Joanna is a 28-year-old woman, currently 20 weeks pregnant with her second pregnancy. Her first pregnancy ended in a miscarriage at 10 weeks. She presents for a routine prenatal care visit. Joanna has no history of chronic illnesses or allergies, and her current pregnancy has been uncomplicated so far. During the visit, Joanna is counseled about the importance of vaccinations during pregnancy. Which of the following vaccines is universally recommended during pregnancy to protect both the mother and the baby?

A 28-year-old female visits her primary care physician for preconception counseling. She is excited about starting a family and wants to take the necessary steps for a healthy pregnancy. She has no prior pregnancies and no family history of neural tube defects or other congenital abnormalities. During the consultation, the physician explains the importance of folate supplementation in preventing neural tube defects, which occur in the early weeks of pregnancy, often before a woman knows she is pregnant. What is the recommended daily dose of folic acid for women planning to conceive?