Section c

17. Pre natal development

1. Germinal stage: This stage begins at conception and lasts for approximately two weeks.
During this stage, the fertilized egg divides rapidly and forms a ball of cells called a
blastocyst. The blastocyst then implants itself in the lining of the uterus.
2. Embryonic stage: This stage begins at around 2 weeks after conception and lasts until the
end of the 8th week of pregnancy. During this stage, the major organs and systems of the
body begin to form. The embryo develops a head and a tail, and its body begins to take
shape. The neural tube also begins to form, which will eventually become the brain and
spinal cord.
3. Fetal stage: This stage begins at the end of the 8th week of pregnancy and lasts until
birth. During this stage, the fetus grows and develops rapidly. It develops fingers and
toes, and its organs continue to mature and function. The fetus begins to move and can
respond to external stimuli such as light and sound. By the end of this stage, the fetus is
fully formed and ready for birth.
Secondary sexual characteristics are physical changes that occur during puberty and are
different for boys and girls. These changes are caused by the release of sex hormones,
primarily testosterone in boys and estrogen in girls.

18. Secondary characteristics in boys:

1. Growth spurt: During puberty, boys experience a rapid increase in height and weight.
2. Facial and body hair: Boys develop thicker and darker hair on their face, chest, and other
parts of their body.
3. Deeper voice: The larynx, or voice box, grows and the vocal cords lengthen, resulting in
a deeper voice.
4. Muscle development: Boys experience an increase in muscle mass and strength.
5. Enlarged penis and testicles: The penis and testicles grow larger and the scrotum
becomes darker and more wrinkled.
Secondary characteristics in girls:
1. Growth spurt: Girls experience a rapid increase in height and weight.
2. Breast development: The breasts begin to develop, and the areola (the area around the
nipple) becomes darker and more pronounced.
3. Body hair: Girls develop hair in the pubic area and under the arms.
 4. Hips widen: The hips become wider, and the waist becomes more defined, creating a
more feminine shape.
5. Menstruation: Girls begin to menstruate, which is the shedding of the lining of the uterus
and release of blood from the vagina.
These changes are an important part of puberty and the development of gender identity.
It's important for young people to have accurate information about these changes so they
can understand what is happening to their bodies and feel comfortable with the changes
they are experiencing.

19. The development of the embryo during the prenatal period is a complex process that can be
affected by various factors, including genetic and environmental factors. Here are some factors
that can hinder the normal development of the embryo:
1. Genetic factors: Genetic abnormalities can occur in the embryo and disrupt the normal
development of the fetus. These abnormalities can be inherited from the parents or can
occur spontaneously. Some examples of genetic disorders that can affect prenatal
development include Down syndrome, cystic fibrosis, and sickle cell anemia.
2. Maternal health: The health of the mother can have a significant impact on the
development of the embryo. Poor maternal nutrition, infections, and exposure to toxins
such as drugs and alcohol can all have harmful effects on fetal development.
3. Premature birth: If a baby is born prematurely, before the end of the full-term pregnancy
(usually around 37 weeks), the baby may not have fully developed lungs, digestive
system, and other organs, which can lead to health problems and developmental delays.
4. Complications during pregnancy: Certain complications during pregnancy, such as
preeclampsia (high blood pressure during pregnancy), gestational diabetes (high blood
sugar during pregnancy), and placenta previa (when the placenta partially or fully covers
the cervix), can all affect fetal development and health.
5. Environmental factors: Exposure to environmental factors such as pollution, radiation,
and chemicals can also harm fetal development.