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Prenatal Development

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10 views

Prenatal Development

Uploaded by

lorainemaysibayangamis
Copyright
© © All Rights Reserved
We take content rights seriously. If you suspect this is your content, claim it here.
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Download as DOCX, PDF, TXT or read online on Scribd
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Prenatal Development: A Journey from Conception to Birth

Prenatal development is a remarkable process that transforms a single


fertilized egg into a complex human being. This intricate journey, spanning
approximately nine months, is divided into three distinct stages: the
germinal, embryonic, and fetal periods.

The Germinal Period (Weeks 1-2)

The germinal period begins with fertilization, the union of a sperm and an
egg. The resulting fertilized egg, called a zygote, undergoes rapid cell
division, a process known as mitosis. As the zygote divides, it travels down
the fallopian tube and implants itself in the uterine wall. This implantation
marks the end of the germinal period.

The Embryonic Period (Weeks 3-8)

During the embryonic period, the developing organism is called an embryo.


This is a critical time for organogenesis, the formation of organs and body
systems. Key developmental milestones include:

 Formation of the neural tube: This structure will eventually develop


into the brain and spinal cord.

 Development of the heart: The heart begins to pump blood.

 Formation of limbs: Arms and legs begin to form.

 Development of facial features: Eyes, nose, and mouth start to


take shape.

The Fetal Period (Weeks 9-40)

The fetal period is characterized by rapid growth and maturation of the


organs and systems. The fetus becomes increasingly responsive to stimuli,
such as sound and light. Key developmental milestones during this period
include:

 Growth and development of organs: The organs continue to


mature and become functional.

 Formation of bones: The fetal skeleton begins to harden.

 Development of sensory systems: The fetus can hear, see, and


taste.
 Rapid growth: The fetus gains weight and size.

Factors Influencing Prenatal Development

Several factors can influence prenatal development, including:

 Maternal health: Factors such as nutrition, stress, and exposure to


toxins can impact fetal development.

 Genetic factors: Genetic disorders can affect fetal development and


lead to birth defects.

 Environmental factors: Exposure to environmental toxins, such as


lead and mercury, can harm the developing fetus.

Understanding the stages of prenatal development is crucial for promoting


healthy pregnancies and preventing birth defects. By addressing factors that
can negatively impact fetal development, healthcare providers and
expectant parents can work together to ensure the best possible outcomes
for both mother and child.

Sources and related content

All from a Single Cell: How a Fertilized Egg Develops into a Baby - Genetic
Twists of Fate

www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov

Fetal Development: Week-by-Week Stages of Pregnancy - Cleveland Clinic

my.clevelandclinic.org

Embryology, Fertilization - StatPearls - NCBI Bookshelf


www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov

24.6. Fertilization and Early Embryonic Development – Concepts of Biology

opentextbc.ca

Embryology, Week 1 - StatPearls - NCBI Bookshelf

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