Prenatal Development Flashcards
What is prenatal development?
The process of growth and development that occurs before birth.
True or False: Prenatal development begins at conception.
True
What are the three stages of prenatal development?
Germinal stage, embryonic stage, fetal stage
During which stage of prenatal development does the fertilized egg implant itself in the uterine wall?
Germinal stage
What major organs begin to form during the embryonic stage?
Heart, brain, spinal cord
True or False: The fetal stage is a period of rapid growth and maturation.
True
What is the approximate length of the fetal stage?
From the 9th week until birth
What is teratogen?
Substance that can cause birth defects
What are some examples of teratogens?
Alcohol, tobacco, certain medications
What is the age of viability?
The age at which a fetus can survive outside the womb, typically around 24 weeks
What is the purpose of the placenta during prenatal development?
To provide oxygen and nutrients to the fetus and remove waste products
True or False: Prenatal care is important for the health of both the mother and the baby.
True
What is the purpose of an ultrasound during prenatal care?
To monitor the growth and development of the fetus
What is the average length of a full-term pregnancy?
Around 40 weeks
What is the vernix caseosa?
A waxy substance that covers the skin of a newborn baby
