What is a common complication for females with cystic fibrosis regarding pregnancy?

In females with cystic fibrosis, thickened cervical mucus is a common complication during pregnancy. Cystic fibrosis affects the body’s ability to produce and regulate mucus due to mutations in the CFTR gene, leading to alterations in the consistency of secretions throughout the body, including the reproductive tract. The thickened cervical mucus can create challenges for sperm passage, potentially affecting fertility, but many women with cystic fibrosis can conceive with appropriate medical support.

During pregnancy, the hormonal changes can impact the secretions, but the underlying condition can still result in cervical mucus that is less hospitable than that found in women without the disorder. This can lead to complications such as an increased risk of infections, which may affect both the mother and the fetus. Managing these complications is crucial for optimizing maternal and neonatal health.

Other answer choices presented, while they can be concerns in the context of cystic fibrosis, do not align as directly with the common complication of thickened cervical mucus. For instance, while infertility can occur, many women with cystic fibrosis do retain fertility and can conceive with assistance. Poor neonatal outcomes can certainly be a risk, especially if the mother is undergoing significant respiratory issues but they are not a direct consequence of the pregnancy itself. Frequent miscarriages are