Stages of fetal development

These flashcards cover key vocabulary terms related to human development from conception to birth, emphasizing medical visualization, fetal development stages, and emotional connections during pregnancy.

Medical Visualization

The use of advanced imaging techniques to create visual representations of human development.

Fertilization

Occurs when a sperm penetrates an egg, forming a zygote which will develop into an embryo.

Blastocyst

A structure formed in the early development of mammals, consisting of an inner cell mass that will develop into the embryo.

Placenta

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

4D Ultrasound

An imaging technique that provides real-time images of the fetus and allows parents to observe fetal behavior.

Emotional Connection

The bond formed between the mother and fetus during pregnancy, influenced by the mother's emotional state.

Nerve Cells

Cells in the brain that develop rapidly during fetal development, forming connections essential for brain function.

Quickening

The first noticeable movements of the fetus, often felt by the mother during mid-pregnancy.

Vernix Caseosa

A protective coating that covers the fetus's skin, developed during pregnancy.

Memory Formation

The process where the fetus starts to recognize familiar stimuli prior to birth.

What is week 1 of fetal development?

During week 1, fertilization occurs, and the zygote begins to divide as it travels down the fallopian tube.

What happens during week 2 of fetal development?

The blastocyst implants into the uterine lining, and the initial formation of the placenta begins.

What is significant about week 3 of fetal development?

Week 3 marks the development of the neural tube, which will form the brain and spinal cord.

What occurs during week 4 of fetal development?

The heart begins to beat, and basic circulatory patterns start to develop.

What is happening in week 5 of fetal development?

Major organs begin to form, including the lungs, liver, and kidneys.

What changes occur in week 6 of fetal development?

Arm and leg buds appear, and the brain's development accelerates.

What is notable about week 7 of fetal development?

Facial features become more defined, and the embryo begins to resemble a human.

What occurs during week 8 of fetal development?

All major organs are present, and the embryo is now termed a fetus

What happens in week 9 of fetal development?

The fetus continues to grow, and the external genitalia begin to differentiate.

What is significant about week 10 of fetal development?

The fetus' bone development accelerates, and fingernails start to form.

What occurs during week 11 of fetal development?

The fetus can begin to make facial expressions, and muscle movements start to become coordinated.

What is notable in week 12 of fetal development?

The fetus can move its arms and legs, and the risk of miscarriage drops significantly.

What happens in week 13 of fetal development?

The fetus is now about 3 inches long, and its body begins to be covered with fine hair called lanugo.

What is significant about week 14 of fetal development?

The fetus' sex can often be determined via ultrasound, and its movements become more noticeable.

What develops during week 15 of fetal development?

Taste buds begin to form, and the fetus might start to respond to stimuli.

What is key in week 16 of fetal development?

The fetus starts to hear sounds, and the heart can be detected using a stethoscope.

What occurs in week 17 of fetal development?

The skin becomes more opaque, and fat begins to accumulate beneath the skin.

What significant developments happen in week 18 of fetal development?

The fetus can now suck its thumb, and intricate brain development continues.

What is notable about week 19 of fetal development?

The first movements felt by the mother, known as 'quickening,' may occur.

What happens between week 20 and week 24 of fetal development?

The lungs continue their development, and the fetus can respond to light.

What is significant about week 25 of fetal development?

The fetus begins to practice breathing and can survive with medical assistance if born prematurely.

What occurs during weeks 26 to 30 of fetal development?

The fetus begins to store fat, and the nervous system matures, allowing for better coordination.

What happens in the last weeks of fetal development (week 31 and onwards)?

The fetus continues to grow rapidly, developing all systems in preparation for birth.

What are the risks during weeks 1-4 of fetal development?

Early miscarriage is a risk, often due to chromosomal abnormalities.

What are the potential risks during week 5 of fetal development?

Risks include ectopic pregnancy and neural tube defects due to inadequate folic acid.

What concerns arise during week 6 of fetal development?

Risk of pregnancy loss remains high, and exposure to drugs can affect organ development.

What are the risks during week 7 of fetal development?

The risk of miscarriage persists, particularly if the mother has health issues or infections.

What complications can occur in week 8 of fetal development?

Abnormalities in heart development may occur, leading to congenital heart defects.

What are the risks during week 9 of fetal development?

Teratogenic effects from certain medications or substances can hinder growth and development.

What concerns are present in week 10 of fetal development?

Continued exposure to harmful substances may affect the development of bones and skeletal structure.

What potential issues can arise in weeks 11-12 of fetal development?

Genetic abnormalities or developmental delays can begin to manifest.

What are the risks during weeks 13-16 of fetal development?

Risks include complications from maternal conditions like diabetes or hypertension.

What complications can occur in weeks 17-20 of fetal development?

Placental abruption or previa, leading to preterm birth or bleeding, may pose risks.

What are the risks noted in weeks 21-24 of fetal development?

Infection and gestational diabetes may impact fetal health and development.

What concerns exist between weeks 25-28 of fetal development?

The risk of premature labor and complications related to lung development increases.

What potential issues emerge during weeks 29-34 of fetal development?

Fetus might experience growth restrictions or developmental issues if maternal health is compromised.

What are the risks during weeks 35-40 of fetal development?

Risks include stillbirth and complications during delivery if the pregnancy extends beyond 40 weeks.