34.

4 Birth and Development

KEY CONCEPT
Physical development continues through
adolescence and declines with age.
34.4 Birth and Development
Birth occurs in three stages.
• Stage one of birth is the dilation of the cervix. Contractions
(oxytocin) push cervix open (10 cm or 4 in.) Amniotic sac
breaks and leaks amniotic fluid (water broke)
– if cervix dilates too little, C-section (Cesarean)

STAGE 1
As regular, strong contractions occur,
the cervix dilates and the baby turns.
34.4 Birth and Development
• Stage two is the emergence of the baby.

– baby usually born headfirst. Breech – feet first

– oxytocin stimulates milk production (lactation)
Colostrum – yellowish fluid released prior to milk
contains antibodies from mother

STAGE 2
The baby is pushed through the cervix
and out of the vaginal canal.
34.4 Birth and Development
• Stage three is the expulsion of the placenta.

– placenta detaches from uterine wall (afterbirth)

– contractions helps control bleeding
– Cut umbilical cord - bellybutton (navel)

STAGE 3
Contractions continue, expelling the
placenta and helping to control bleeding.
34.4 Birth and Development
Human growth and aging also occur in stages.
• Genetics, hormones, lifestyle, environment affect all
stages.
• Key hormones – thyroxin, estrogen,
testosterone, human growth hormone HGH
– During INFANCY, (birth to age 2)
growth is rapid

1st birthday – tripled weight.

– During CHILDHOOD (2-12 yrs. old)

– motor and language skills develop
– Grow about 3 inches and 6 lbs. per year
34.4 Birth and Development
• Genetics, hormones, lifestyle, environment affect all stages.
– During Puberty, sexual
maturity begins
Girls – 10-14 yrs. old
Boys – 10 -16 yrs. old

– During ADOLESCENCE
(Sexual maturity), growth is
rapid and the brain rewired
– Growth ends at age 15 Girls
and age 17 Boys
– ADULTHOOD and marks the peak of skills and
independence, raise families.
34.4 Birth and Development

• Aging is also affected by genetics, hormones, lifestyle,

environment.
• Effects of aging can be reduced with good diet, exercise,
and continued learning.