Developmental biologyLesson 1 of 1 in the course Genetic, Prenatal, and Perinatal Health

Prenatal Development, Pregnancy Risks, and Prenatal Care

5 flashcards · 5 quiz questions · 5 match pairs · 5 fill-in sentences · English

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Summary

Prenatal development is commonly described using both trimesters and developmental periods. These timelines help explain when major changes occur and why the timing of exposures and prenatal care matters.

Pregnancy length varies, and very few babies are born on their estimated due date. Because the exact date of conception may be unknown, clinicians commonly estimate pregnancy timing from the first day of the last menstrual period, accounting for the fact that ovulation typically occurs around the middle of the menstrual cycle. This estimate supports planning and monitoring; it is not a guarantee of the birth date.

All flashcards

How is pregnancy timing commonly estimated?
From the first day of the last menstrual period, since the exact conception date may be unknown.
What is the age of viability?
The point at which a fetus born prematurely may have a chance of survival outside the womb, often with intensive medical care.
What is a teratogen?
A disease, drug, or environmental agent that can harm an embryo or fetus or affect health after birth.
What is amniocentesis?
An invasive prenatal procedure that collects amniotic fluid for testing.
Why should prenatal care begin as soon as pregnancy is confirmed?
It allows health professionals to monitor health, offer guidance, and address concerns.

Quiz questions

  1. What does ultrasound use to create images of developing structures?Answer: High-frequency sound waves
  2. What can an out-of-range maternal serum test result indicate?Answer: A higher chance of a chromosomal abnormality, not confirmation of one
  3. What sample is collected during chorionic villus sampling (CVS)?Answer: A small sample of placental tissue
  4. Birth before which point in pregnancy is defined as premature birth?Answer: Before the 37th week
  5. Which body system remains susceptible to harmful exposures throughout prenatal development?Answer: The nervous system

Based on Lifespan Development by Diana Riser, Rose Spielman, David Biek (OpenStax), licensed CC BY 4.0. Adapted into a summary, flashcards and quizzes.

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