Prenatal Development

These flashcards cover key concepts and vocabulary related to prenatal development, including stages of development, pregnancy complications, and the effects of teratogens.

Germinal Period

The first two weeks of pregnancy characterized by the growth of the zygote after fertilization and the establishment of a linkage between the zygote and the support system of the mother.

Embryonic Period

The period from the third through the eighth weeks after conception, marked by rapid growth, establishment of a placental relationship, early organ formation, and recognizable human body structure.

Fetal Period

The period from the ninth week after conception through birth, characterized by the establishment of sex organs, continued growth of major systems, especially skeletal and neurological structures, and weight gain.

Teratogens

Agents that can cause malformations or developmental abnormalities in the fetus, notably when exposure occurs during critical periods of development.

Critical Period

A specific time during development when certain events must occur for normal development; exposure to harmful influences during this period can lead to significant deficits.

Sensitive Period

A time when a certain type of developmental growth is most likely to occur, but may still happen later with difficulty.

Thalidomide

A drug that interfered with critical periods of limb development, leading to serious birth defects when taken during pregnancy.

Fetal Alcohol Syndrome (FAS)

A condition resulting from alcohol exposure during pregnancy, leading to characteristic facial features, slow growth, and reduced intellectual ability.

Gestational Age

The age of the fetus calculated from the first day of the last menstrual period, typically 40 weeks.

Minor Complications

Common pregnancy issues such as nausea, heartburn, gas, hemorrhoids, backache, leg cramps, insomnia, and morning sickness.

Major Complications

Severe pregnancy issues including ectopic pregnancy, hyperemesis gravidarum, gestational diabetes, preeclampsia, miscarriage, and maternal mortality.

Low Birth Weight

A critical health issue often associated with maternal substance use, such as cigarettes, during pregnancy, affecting the infant's health and development.