Human reproduction, growth and development Flashcards
Which health professionals take care of women during pregnancy and birth?
Midwives, and gynaecologists.
What do health visitors do?
Advise parents on the care of young children.
How many chromosomes are there in a human body cell?
46/23 pairs.
How is the sperm transferred from male to female?
During sexual intercourse, semen travels through the urethra and is deposited very close to the cervix. The sperms have to swim to the oviduct.
Where is the site of fertilisation?
Oviduct (Fallopian tube)
How many chromosomes do sex cells have?
23.
What happens to a zygote after fertilisation?
It divides by mitosis to form a ball of cells that is moved to the uterus where implantation occurs.
What does the ball of cells divide into?
The foetus, the amnion and the placenta.
What is the function of the amniotic fluid?
It acts as a shock absorber to protect the foetus.
What is the function of the placenta?
It is an exchange surface to allow materials to diffuse to and from the foetus including oxygen, nutrients, carbon dioxide.
What is the first stage of labour?
The muscular walls of the uterus contract in order to dilate the cervix.
What is the second stage of labour?
The uterus walls squeeze to force the baby through the vagina.
What is the third stage of labour?
Following the birth, the uterus contracts to push out the placenta.
Why do midwives suggest that pregnant women do not drink alcohol or take drugs?
Because they can cross the placenta, and can cause harm to the development of the foetus.
How does carbon monoxide reduce oxygen levels available to the foetus and reduce birth weight?
Carbon monoxide combines with haemoglobin, and so reduces the ability of the blood to carry oxygen to the foetus.