09.2 Foetal Growth and Development

Question 1

When are the premebryonic, embryonic and foetal periods?

Answer 1

0-2, 2-8, 8-38 weeks respsectively

Question 2

Does protein or fat deposition occur in the early foetus?

Answer 2

Protein deposition, fat is later

Question 3

At 9 weeks what is the size of the head as a proportion of the body?

Answer 3

1/2 CRL

Question 4

At term what is the size of the head as a proportion of the body?

Answer 4

1/4 CRL

Question 5

What are the antenatal assessments of foetal well being?

Answer 5

Foetal movements
Uterine expansion
Ultrasound scans (12 week and 20 week)
Ultrasound measurements

Question 6

What are some ultrasound measurements taken?

Answer 6

CRL
Biparietal diameter
Femur length and abdominal circumference

Question 7

What is the average birth weight?

Answer 7

3500g

Question 8

What weight at birth is macrosomia defined as?

Answer 8

4500g+

Question 9

What birth weight would hint at growth restriction?

Answer 9

less than 2500g

Question 10

Relatively, when does the respiratory system develop?

Answer 10

Late

Question 11

When do the pneumocytes differentiate and what is the sigificance of this?

Answer 11

26 weeks

Produces surfactant which allows the lungs to function

Question 12

What is the normal heart rate at birth?

Answer 12

120-160bpm

Question 13

What can cause oligohydramnios?

Answer 13

Poor renal function
Placental insufficiency
(Poor respiratory function)

Question 14

What can cause polyhydramnios?

Answer 14

Inability to swallow

Question 15

When is myelination of the brain complete?

Answer 15

Over a year after birth