Prenatal Development and Childbirth

Flashcards related to Prenatal Development and Childbirth

Germinal Period

Lasts about 2 weeks, from conception to implantation.

Mitosis

Cell division process through which the zygote divides, becoming a blastocyst.

Blastocyst

A structure formed during early development with an inner cell mass (embryonic disk) and outer layer (trophoblast).

Embryonic Period

From week 3 to week 8, after implantation, major body structures form.

Cephalocaudally

Development proceeds from head to tail.

Proximodistally

Development proceeds from midline outward.

Teratogens

Environmental factors causing birth defects, influenced by timing, amount, and genetics.

Fetal Period

From week 9 to birth; structures continue to develop.

Age of Viability

The first chance of survival outside the womb, reached at 24 weeks.

Neural Plate

Forms in week 3 during prenatal brain development from stem cell differentiation.

Neural Tube

Formed from the neural groove, it differentiates into the forebrain, midbrain, and hindbrain.

Neurogenesis

Mostly complete by midgestation, except in the hippocampus.

Neural Migration

Mostly complete by 24 weeks.

Fetal Alcohol Spectrum Disorders (FASD)

Can be caused by alcohol, a leading preventable cause of intellectual disabilities.

Toxoplasma gondii

Infection that can cause premature birth and birth defects.

Rh Disease

Rh incompatibility that can cause anemia in the fetus; preventable with treatment.

Ectopic Pregnancy

Occurs when the zygote implants outside the uterus; requires medical intervention.

Preeclampsia

Characterized by high blood pressure and kidney problems; can lead to eclampsia and fetal complications.

Spontaneous Abortion

Miscarriage, often due to chromosomal abnormalities.

Lamaze Method

Focuses on muscle relaxation, breathing techniques, and support during delivery.