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PRENATAL DEVELOPMENT
The process in which a baby develops from a single cell
after conception into an embryo and later a foetus.

The average length of time for prenatal development to

occur is 38 weeks.

Prenatal development consists of three (3) stages/periods.

The Germinal stage or period of the zygote, the embryonic stage or
period of the embryo, the foetal stage or period of the foetus.

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THE GERMINAL STAGE (FIRST 2 WEEKS OF
DEVELOPMENT)
The union of the sperm and egg cell forms a single cell
called the zygote. Once fertilization occurs, cell division
starts.
This moves along the fallopian tube towards the uterus.

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THE EMBRYONIC STAGE

As long as this zygote attaches itself to

one of the walls of the uterus, it
becomes an embryo. Cell division
continues and differentiation occurs.
Different types of cells are formed.

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THE FOETAL STAGE

After 9 weeks the embryo is referred to

as a foetus. By this time all
foundations for the baby’s major
systems have been laid.

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 SENSITIVE/CRITICAL PERIODS IN PRENATAL
DEVELOPMENT
video

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COMMON PROBLEMS
Congenital abnormalities: Problem occurs before birth
but manifests itself after birth eg: gene mutation or
chromosomal abnormality. May cause spontaneous
abortion or serious defects.
Maternal derived abnormalities: age, health status,
nutritional status, Other environmental factors like
teratogens eg: alcohol, drugs, medication, radiation etc.
Prematurity: 21 Wks or less slim chance, 23 wks -10-35
%chance; 26 wks 80-90% chance; 27 wks greater than
90%

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THE INFLUENCE OF TERATOGENS (ACTIVITY)
Prescription and Non-prescription drugs
Illegal drugs
Tobacco
Alcohol
Radiation
Environmental Pollution
Maternal Disease
Other Maternal Factors

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PARENTAL CONCERNS
How can I find out what is happening to my unborn
child?
Blood tests for several reasons : hepatitus B, HIV, STD, RH
factor,
Chorionic villus sampling for chromosomal abnormalities
Nuchal fold or nuchal translucency screening: small stick
on the neck of foetus
Amniocentesis: sample fluid around the foetus.

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THE APGAR SCORE
Appearance – color, limbs etc
Pulse, heart rate
Grimace, muscle tone
Activity, reflexes sneezing, coughing
Respiratory effort

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RESULTS??????????
What are some of the problems that may develop?

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LOCAL SITUATION: ARE WE DOING ENOUGH?

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