Prenatal Development and Birth

These flashcards cover key vocabulary and concepts related to prenatal development and birth, aiding in exam preparation.

Gametes

Reproductive cells that include sperm and ova, each consisting of 23 chromosomes.

Zygote

A fertilized egg formed by the combination of two gametes, containing 23 chromosomes from each parent.

Prenatal Development

The process through which a baby develops in the womb, divided into three periods: germinal, embryonic, and fetal.

Germinal Period

The first two weeks of prenatal development, starting from fertilization and characterized by rapid cell division.

Embryonic Period

The stage from 2 to 8 weeks of development where key structures including the heart begin to form.

Fetal Period

The stage from 8 weeks until birth, marked by continued growth and development of all body systems.

Teratogens

Substances that can cause malformation or negatively affect the development of a fetus.

Implantation

The process by which a blastocyst attaches to the uterine wall.

Neural Tube

A structure that forms in the embryonic stage, which will develop into the central nervous system.

Apgar Test

An assessment of a newborn's overall condition that includes measures of heart rate, respiration and muscle tone.

Low Birth Weight

A term used for infants weighing less than 5 pounds 8 ounces (2500 grams) at birth, often at risk for health complications.

Preterm Birth

Birth that occurs before 37 weeks of gestation, associated with increased risk for health issues.

Caesarean Section (C-section)

A surgical procedure used to deliver a baby by making an incision in the mother's abdomen.

Induced Birth

The process of stimulating contractions to begin labor before it starts naturally, often for health concerns.

Postpartum Depression

A serious mood disorder that can affect women after childbirth, characterized by severe feelings of sadness and difficulties bonding with the baby.

Epidural Block

A regional anesthesia used during labor to alleviate pain without significantly slowing labor.

Fetal Development Milestones

Key developments during the fetal stage, including sex differentiation and organ formation.

Minor Complications of Pregnancy

Common issues such as nausea, heartburn, and backache experienced during pregnancy.

Major Complications of Pregnancy

Serious conditions that can arise, such as preeclampsia and ectopic pregnancy, which can pose risks to mother and baby.

Apgar Score Assessment

A scoring system used to evaluate the health of newborns based on physical criteria shortly after birth.

Premature Baby

An infant born before 37 weeks of gestation, often needing specialized care due to underdevelopment.

Genetic Factors

Inherited traits and conditions from parents that may affect prenatal development and the health of the fetus.

Maternal Age Risks

Complications that can arise in pregnancies of women over 35 or teenagers, including genetic disorders and miscarriage risk.

Embryo

The developing fertilized egg after implantation during the embryonic stage.

Placenta

An organ that develops in the uterus during pregnancy, providing oxygen and nutrients to the developing fetus.

Maternal Mortality

The death of a woman during pregnancy or within 42 days postpartum, often due to complications.