Prenatal Development Stages, Factors, and Teratogens: Key Concepts and Research

What is the duration of the Germinal Period?

Weeks 1-2

What is formed during the Germinal Period?

The zygote and then the blastocyst.

What is the process of implantation?

The blastocyst burrowing into the uterine lining.

What percentage of zygotes do not survive the Germinal Period?

Up to 30%.

What significant development occurs during the Embryonic Period?

The central nervous system begins to form through neurogenesis.

How many neurons develop per minute during the Embryonic Period?

250,000 neurons.

What is a potential outcome of neural tube defects during the Embryonic Period?

Anencephaly, where the embryo does not develop a brain above the brain stem.

What happens during the first trimester of the Fetal Period?

Organs, muscles, and the nervous system organize; behavioral capacities like kicking and sucking develop.

What occurs during the second trimester of the Fetal Period?

Fetus is active, glial cells increase, and sensitivity to sound and light emerges.

What is the age of viability during the third trimester?

22-26 weeks.

What influences taste and odor preferences in fetuses?

Maternal diet during the third trimester.

What is the correlation between fetal motor activity and toddler temperament?

Fetal motor activity is related to behavioral inhibition at 2 years of age.

What are teratogens?

Substances that can cause developmental abnormalities during pregnancy.

What is a critical period for teratogen exposure?

The Embryonic Period (Weeks 3-8) has the highest risk for major structural abnormalities.

What are the outcomes of Fetal Alcohol Spectrum Disorder?

Includes Fetal Alcohol Syndrome (FAS), partial FAS, and alcohol-related neurodevelopmental disorder (ARND).

How can maternal age affect prenatal development?

Younger than 20 and older than 35 years old are at higher risk for complications.

What is the effect of maternal malnutrition on prenatal development?

Can damage organs and the central nervous system, leading to low birth weight and increased disease risk.

What is the impact of smoking during pregnancy?

Reduces oxygen content and increases carbon monoxide in the blood, affecting the developing child.

What is the relationship between paternal age and autism risk?

Older fathers have a higher likelihood of having children with autism due to increased mutations.

What is the significance of folic acid during pregnancy?

Crucial for neural tube formation to prevent defects.

What is the impact of maternal stress on prenatal development?

Can negatively influence fetal health and development.

What is the correlation coefficient found by DiPietro et al. (2002) regarding fetal movement and temperament?

-.45

What is the primary focus of the study by Mennella, Jagnow, & Beauchamp (2001)?

Relative acceptance of carrot flavor by infants based on maternal diet.

What behavior indicates fetal health according to the doctor in the scenario with Mansa?

Fetal movement is vital for fetal physical development.

What does Mavis's preference for 'Green Eggs and Ham' indicate?

She preferred hearing it narrated in her mother's voice.

What are the consequences of prenatal exposure to teratogens during the Fetal Period?

Risk for functional defects and minor structural issues.

What is the effect of maternal nutrition on fetal brain development?

Malnutrition can lead to brain damage and developmental issues.