Prenatal Development

Gametes

Reproductive cells (eggs and sperm) produced by meiosis, each with half of the genetic material.

Zygote

A fertilized egg that results from the fusion of sperm and egg, containing all genetic material.

Mitosis

The process by which a single cell divides to produce two identical daughter cells.

Implantation

The attachment of the zygote to the uterine lining.

Chorionic Villi

Fingerlike projections that extend into the uterine lining to form part of the placenta.

Amniotic Sac

A fluid-filled bag that surrounds and protects the developing embryo.

Embryo

The developing human from the second to the eighth week after conception.

Ectoderm

The outermost layer of cells in the embryo, which develops into the nervous system, skin, and sensory organs.

Mesoderm

The middle layer of cells in the embryo, which develops into muscles, bones, and the circulatory system.

Endoderm

The innermost layer of cells in the embryo that develops into internal organs.

Fetus

The developing human from the ninth week after conception until birth.

Teratology

The study of birth defects and the effects of teratogens on prenatal development.

Teratogen

An agent or factor that causes malformation or defects in a developing embryo or fetus.

Rubella

A virus that can cause birth defects, including low birth weight and congenital heart disease.

Fetal Alcohol Syndrome

A syndrome caused by alcohol consumption during pregnancy leading to physical and cognitive abnormalities.

Neurodevelopmental disorders

Disorders that affect the development of the nervous system and the brain.

Labor Stage 1

The stage of labor when contractions occur to dilate the cervix.

Labor Stage 2

The stage of labor when the mother pushes to deliver the baby.

Labor Stage 3

The stage of labor when the