Module 2: Early Foundations, Start to Infant Development

Diethylstilboestrol (DES)

was prescribed to prevent miscarriages.

Thalidomide

causes significant deformities in arms, legs and less frequently to ears, kidneys, the heart and genitals.

Teratogens

are external substances that negatively affect foetal development.

Fetal alcohol syndrome (FAS)

Abnormal growth and facial characteristics and impairment in at least three areas of functioning, such as communication, social skills, planning and reasoning and memory

**Embryo:**

Weeks 3-8 of the 1st trimester. Internal and external structures of the body form

**Germinal period:**

A two week period, and is the first stage of the 1st trimester. A one celled zygote multiples while other structures form

**Foetus Weeks 9-12**.

rapid growth period, nervous system, organs and muscles become organised.

**Foetus Weeks 13-24**

is when foetal movements become detectable, and most neurons are in place, and the foetus reacts to both sound and light.

In 3rd trimester, (weeks 25-38)

the lungs of the foetus mature, and there is a rapid increase in size. Additionally, there is rapid brain development and behavioural capacities