Development/ Pregnancy

Question 1

What is the embryonic period and its duration?

Answer 1

Weeks 0-8

This period is crucial for early development.

Question 2

What occurs during fertilization?

Answer 2

Fusion of haploid sperm and oocyte to form a diploid zygote

Sperm must penetrate the corona radiata and zona pellucida.

Question 3

What is the fast block to polyspermy?

Answer 3

Oocyte membrane depolarizes to prevent other sperm from fusing

Question 4

What is the slow block to polyspermy?

Answer 4

Molecules released in exocytosis harden the zona pellucida

Question 5

What are the two main cell types formed from the trophoblast?

Answer 5

• Embryoblast
• Trophoblast

Question 6

What is the role of the trophoblast?

Answer 6

Forms the wall of the blastocyst and becomes part of the placenta

Question 7

What is the decidua?

Answer 7

Modified portion of endometrium after implantation

It will help form part of the placenta.

Question 8

What structures develop from the embryoblast during the second week?

Answer 8

• Amnion
• Yolk sac
• Chorion

Question 9

What is the function of the yolk sac?

Answer 9

Supplies early nutrients, source of blood cells, and some embryonic tissues

Question 10

What is gastrulation?

Answer 10

Transformation of the bilaminar embryonic disc into a trilaminar embryonic disc

Question 11

What are the three germ layers formed during gastrulation?

Answer 11

• Ectoderm
• Mesoderm
• Endoderm

Question 12

What is the function of the allantois?

Answer 12

Early formation of blood vessels and urinary bladder

Question 13

What develops from the neural tube?

Answer 13

Brain and spinal cord

Question 14

What are chorionic villi?

Answer 14

Finger-like projections that facilitate gas and nutrient exchange between mother and fetus

Question 15

What occurs during organogenesis?

Answer 15

All major organs develop between weeks 4-8

Question 16

What significant development occurs during week 5?

Answer 16

Rapid brain development and substantial head growth

Question 17

What is the significance of the SRY gene in male development?

Answer 17

Leads to the release of Müllerian inhibiting substance (MIS) causing regression of Müllerian ducts

Question 18

What is the fetal period’s duration?

Answer 18

Weeks 9 to birth

Question 19

What is the primary function of the placenta?

Answer 19

Gas and nutrient exchange, protection

Question 20

What is the difference between true labor and false labor?

Answer 20

• True labor: regular contractions with shortening intervals
• False labor: irregular contractions, no intensification

Question 21

What complications can occur during pregnancy?

Answer 21

• Placenta previa
• Placental abruption
• Meconium staining
• Preeclampsia

Question 22

What is a miscarriage?

Answer 22

Expulsion of a fetus from the womb before it can survive independently

Question 23

What is the role of oxytocin in lactation?

Answer 23

Triggers the milk ejection reflex

Question 24

What is colostrum?

Answer 24

Nutrient-rich fluid produced before true milk appears

It is high in carbohydrates, protein, and antibodies.