What adverse fetal effect can NSAIDs cause when used in late pregnancy?

NSAIDs inhibit prostaglandins required to keep the ductus arteriosus patent; in the third trimester they can cause premature ductal closure, leading to fetal pulmonary hypertension.Other options: Cleft palate, neural tube defects, and cord rupture are not the characteristic NSAID effect.Key exam takeaway: NSAIDs in late pregnancy can cause premature closure of the ductus arteriosus; avoid them.