Chapter4 Prenatal development, birth, and newborns’ readiness for .ppt

Chapter 4: Prenatal development, birth, and newborns’ readiness for life. Dr. Pelaez From conception to birth Prenatal development is divided into 3 major phases: Germinal period Embryonic period Fetal period Germinal Period From conception to implantation (about 14 days). Zygote moves toward uterus through fallopian tube Implantation occurs Support system develops (4 structures) Embryonic period Lasts from week 3 to week 8. Neural tube development begins. Heart begins to beat Grows about 1/30 inches per day. External body structures form (ears, limbs, eyes) Fetal period Lasts from week 9 to term. By end of month 3, sex can be detected on ultrasound Neural and muscular systems continue to develop By second trimester (month 5-6), covered by vernix lanugo (substance that protects fetal skin fine hair which helps vernix to stick to body). Third trimester (weeks 25-38) involve rapid growth and maturity of all organ systems. Teratogens External agents such as viruses, drugs, and radiation that can be harmful to developing embryo or fetus. Sensitive periods Long-term effects depend on the quality of postnatal environment Maternal diseases Diseases capable of passing through placenta and damage embryo/fetus Rubella. 60-85% of babies exposed will have birth defects. STD’s (AIDS, herpes, syphilis). Toxoplasmosis Influenza Malaria Tuberculosis Drugs Drugs taken by mother can have harmful effects on children: (low birth weight, heart defects, brain neurological defects, and death). Thalidomide Diethylstilbestrol (DES) Alcohol Cigarettes Illegal, prescription, and over the counter drugs Environmental hazards Environmental hazards that may cause low birth weight, miscarriages, or genetic defects to embryo/fetus: Radiation Lead Zinc Mercury Other harsh chemicals Maternal characteristics Maternal behavior can affect the outcome of her pregnancy Mother’s diet Mother’s emotional well-being Mother’s age Birth Process Perinatal environment: environment surrounding birth; i