Prenatal Development

A set of flashcards focusing on key vocabulary related to prenatal development, including definitions and important concepts.

Prenatal Development

The stages of development that occur between conception and birth.

Zygote

The fertilized ovum that divides by mitosis and develops into an embryo.

Implantation

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

Cell Differentiation

The process by which cells begin to take on different functions during development.

Blastocyst

A structure formed in the early development of mammals, consisting of an inner cell mass and an outer layer of cells.

Trophoblast

The outer layer of cells in a blastocyst that will develop into support structures.

Amnion

The membrane that encases the amniotic fluid, cushioning the embryo.

Chorion

The membrane that surrounds the amniotic sac and becomes part of the placenta.

Placenta

An organ that develops during pregnancy to provide nutrients and oxygen to the developing fetus.

Neural Tube

A fold of ectoderm that becomes the brain and spinal cord in the embryo.

Ectoderm

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

Mesoderm

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

Endoderm

The innermost layer of cells in the embryo, which develops into the digestive and respiratory systems.

Fetus

The developing human from the 9th week of gestation until birth.

Age of Viability

The point at which a fetus has a chance of survival outside the womb, typically around 24 weeks.

Teratogens

Agents that can cause developmental deviations in a fetus.

Organogenesis

The process during which the organs of a developing fetus begin to form.

Fetal Alcohol Syndrome

A condition caused by alcohol exposure during pregnancy characterized by growth delays and cognitive impairments.

Critical Period

A specific timeframe during development when certain structures are most vulnerable to damage by teratogens.

Genetic Abnormalities

Conditions caused by changes in the structure of DNA that can affect development.

Nutritional Needs

Increased calorie intake and specific nutrients essential for healthy prenatal development.