Conception, Pregnancy, and Childbirth

alternatives to pregnancy and sexual intimacy

• abstinence: restraining oneself from indulging in sex before marriage
• celibacy: restraining oneself from sex and marriage for their entire life to deepen their connection with Christ
• chastity: restraining oneself from sex and marriage for their entire life
• restraint: self control

conception

• during sex
  • the nucleus of the ovum (egg) carries 23 chromosomes
  • the nucleus of the sperm carries 23 chromosomes
  • the nuclei unite, giving 46 chromosomes to the offspring

pregnancy

• divided into three twelve-week (3-month) trimesters
  • first trimester
  • Rapid Growth
  • Implantation
  • Umbilical chord develops at end of trimester:
    • brain
    • spinal cord
    • eyes
    • ears
    • limbs
    • genitals
    • heartbeat at 6wks
    • Weight: 28 grams (1oz)
    • Length: (3-4 inches)
  • second trimester
  • Organs develop
  • Skin and hair form
  • Bone/cartilage growth
  • Fetus floats in amniotic sac
  • Fetus very active
  • All body systems formed
    • Weight: 1kg (2.5 lbs.)
    • Length: 10-12 inches
  • Mothers abdomen protrudes
  • Mother’s body prepares to breast feed
  • Water retention is common
  • third trimester
  • Fetus grows in size and length
  • Moves to a “head down” position
  • Lots of weight gain
  • May feel uncomfortable
    • Weight: about 7 pounds
    • Length: 18-22 inches

labor

• divided into three stages
  • First Stage of Labor:  Effacement and Dilation of Cervix
  • Second Stage of Labor:  Expulsion of the Fetus
  • Third Stage of Labor:  Expulsion of the Placenta