Week 1: Fetal development

What does amniotic fluid do?

• Thin membrane, surrounds, protects the embryo 

• Chorion and amnion form the amniotic sac filled w/ amniotic fluid

What does the umbilicord have?

• Two arteries: carrying blood away from the fetus

• One vein: returns blood to fetus 

• 55cm/22in 

• Wharton jelly covers and cushions cord vessels

what’s the age of viability?

• 20 weeks gestation, req. NICU to survive 

What determines the gender of the baby?

Male sperm

what are the Placental hormones

• Progesterone: functions during pregnancy 

• Estrogen: stimulates uterine growth, development of breast ducts for lactation

• Human Chorionic Gonadotropin (hCG): Detectable in maternal blood after implantation, helps maintain corpus luteum 

• Human placental lactogen (hPl): decreases insulin sensitivity and utilization of glucose by the mom. Makes more glucose for fetus

What are the different types of twins?

• Monozygotic twins: single fertilized ovum (identical) 

• Dizygotic twins: two separate fertilized ovum (fraternal)

Current legislation for maximum hospital stays for uncomplicated vaginal delivery and cesarean section.

• Uncomplicated: 48 hours 

• Cesarean section: 4 day hospital stay

Empowerment

Control over healthcare of family members

Advantages and disadvantages of a freestanding birthing center.

• Advantage: Home atmosphere 

• Doesn’t have technology and medical care readily available for complications

what to ask for Cultural Competence

Ask the patient what she considers normal practice