Prenatal Development

Germinal Period

Conception to implantation (~first two weeks), where fertilization creates a zygote and stem cells are undifferentiated.

Embryonic Period

From implantation (~3 weeks) to around 2 months, involving the formation of essential organs and limb buds.

Fetal Period

2 months to birth, marked by key milestones such as sensory development and genitalia formation.

Developmental Milestones

Key stages of development at 3 weeks, 7 weeks, 2 months, 4 months, and 8 months.

Genetic and Environmental Variations

Factors causing variations in development, with unknown factors accounting for 50% of congenital abnormalities.

Cystic Fibrosis

A genetic disorder that can cause significant health issues.

Sickle-cell anemia

A genetic disorder affecting red blood cells, leading to various health complications.

Teratogens

Substances like thalidomide and alcohol that can cause severe birth defects during pregnancy.

Thalidomide Tragedy

The use of thalidomide in the 1950s led to severe limb deformities in approximately 20,000 children.

Fetal Alcohol Syndrome (FAS)

A condition characterized by microcephaly and distinctive facial features due to maternal alcohol consumption.

Fetal Learning

The ability of fetuses to recognize familiar sounds and stories heard in utero.

DeCasper & Spence (1986)

Research showing that babies prefer familiar stories heard during pregnancy.

Hepper (1991)

Study indicating fetuses respond to theme music from a soap opera watched by their mothers.

Chromosomal Variations

Abnormal numbers of chromosomes leading to conditions like Down syndrome and Turner syndrome.

Turner Syndrome

A chromosomal condition (45X0) affecting female development.

Klinefelter Syndrome

A condition (47XXY) that can lead to learning disabilities and varied life expectancy.

Triple-X Syndrome

A chromosomal variation that may go undiagnosed due to mild symptoms.

XYY Syndrome

A chromosomal variation associated with taller stature and potential learning disabilities.