Development of the fetus Flashcards
Describe what happens during birth.
The mother’s cervix relaxes. The muscles in the wall of the uterus contract. This pushes the baby out through the vagina.
What is the scientific name for an egg that has been fertilised?
A zygote
What is the function of the umbilical cord?
It connects the fetus to the placenta.
What happens in the 9th week of pregnancy?
Fetus can move. Lips and cheeks sense touch. Eyes and ears are forming.
In mammals, the time spent in the uterus during development is called…
gestation
What effect can smoking have on an unborn baby?
Premature birth. Low birth weight.
What is the function of the fluid sac (amniotic sac)?
It acts as a shock absorber, protecting the fetus from any bumps.
What happens in the 1st week of pregnancy?
Cells of the embryo begin to specialise (do specific jobs).
What is the function of a placenta?
An organ where substances pass between the mother’s blood and the fetus’s blood. It acts as a barrier, which stops infections and harmful substances reaching the fetus.
What happens in the 4th week of pregnancy?
Spine and brain are forming and heart is beating.
What effect can alcohol have on an unborn baby?
Poor brain development.
What happens in the 12th week of pregnancy?
Fetus can kick, suck, swallow and practice breathing.
After 8 weeks of growth an embryo is called a…
fetus
How long is the human gestation period?
9 months (40 weeks)
Does the blood of mother and fetus mix when it is developing in the uterus?
NO - but useful substances like nutrients and oxygen can pass from mother to baby through the placenta.
