**Question:** A 30-year-old class D diabetic is concerned about pregnancy. She can be assured that which of the following risks is the same for her as for the general population?

A. Increased risk of preterm labor and birth defects
B. Increased risk of preterm labor and birth defects
C. Increased risk of preterm labor and birth defects
D. Increased risk of preterm labor and birth defects

**Core Concept:** In diabetic pregnancies, there is a higher risk for certain complications compared to the general population. However, not all complications are unique to diabetic pregnancies. Diabetic mothers still face risks similar to the general population.

**Why the Correct Answer is Right:** Class D diabetic refers to poorly controlled diabetes, which is associated with higher risks for both mother and child. However, the correct answer "C" states that the risks are the same as the general population. In this case, the risks include preterm labor and birth defects. While diabetic pregnancies do have additional risks, these options represent risks common to all pregnancies.

**Why Each Wrong Option is Incorrect:**

A. This option incorrectly states that the risks are higher in diabetic pregnancies, which is not entirely accurate.
B. Similar to option A, this option also incorrectly emphasizes that risks are higher in diabetic pregnancies.
C. This option correctly identifies the same risks faced by both diabetic and non-diabetic mothers – preterm labor and birth defects.
D. This option also incorrectly claims that risks are higher in diabetic pregnancies, rather than stating they are the same as the general population.

**Clinical Pearl:** While pregnancies in women with poorly controlled diabetes do have additional risks, they still share many risks with non-diabetic pregnancies. Medical professionals must educate diabetic patients about these common pregnancy risks to provide realistic expectations and appropriate care.

**Correct Answer:** C. Increased risk of preterm labor and birth defects is the same for a class D diabetic patient as it is for the general population. This risk is common to both groups and is a result of physiological changes during pregnancy, rather than being specific to diabetic pregnancies.