Parenting Decisions and Fertility Issues

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Questions and Answers

What is the initial stage of prenatal development called?

Embryonic Period

Germinal Period (correct)

Fetal Period

Blastocyst Period

Which of the following statements about infertility is accurate?

Infertility is defined as not getting pregnant after two years.

Infertility can be attributed equally to both partners. (correct)

Infertility is primarily a result of age in women.

Infertility only affects women.

What is one of the potential benefits reported by couples without children?

Reduced marital satisfaction

Increased stress levels

Higher standards of living (correct)

More restrictive lifestyle

What happens to the zygote during the germinal period?

It becomes a blastocyst and implants in the uterine wall. Signup and view all the answers

What is the cost range for a single attempt of in vitro fertilization (IVF) in the US?

$12,000 - $15,000 Signup and view all the answers

What percentage of pregnancies may result in miscarriage during the germinal period?

8% - 50% Signup and view all the answers

What is a common emotional response reported by couples undergoing fertility treatments?

Experience of stress Signup and view all the answers

What is the estimated success rate of IVF using fresh eggs for women under 35?

40% Signup and view all the answers

What significant process begins during the embryonic period between the 3rd and 8th week of pregnancy?

Organogenesis and cell differentiation Signup and view all the answers

Which structure in the embryo develops from the outer layer of the blastocyst?

Chorion Signup and view all the answers

What biological response occurs in the presence of a XY chromosome combination during sex differentiation?

Development of testes Signup and view all the answers

At what gestational age do fetuses exhibit better behavioral regulation as indicated by matched heart rate and movement?

36 weeks Signup and view all the answers

What effect does prenatal alcohol exposure have on twins in relation to susceptibility?

Altered genetic expression Signup and view all the answers

Which of the following best describes the term 'fetal programming'?

Environmental impact on genetic expression during pregnancy Signup and view all the answers

What initial behavior is associated with fetuses that show a well-organized behavior pattern in the womb?

Demonstrating less disrupted sleeping patterns at three months old Signup and view all the answers

During which period of prenatal development does significant brain development occur that relates to coordination of reflexes and behavior?

Fetal period Signup and view all the answers

Study Notes

Exam #1

Many parents decide to have children without giving it much thought.
Over 50% of pregnancies in the US are planned
Couples who choose to not have children report higher levels of marital satisfaction, more freedom, and a higher standard of living.

Cost of Having Children

Cost of child-rearing is an important consideration when deciding to have children.

Conception

Conception involves the combination of sperm and egg genetic material to form a single-celled zygote.
One out of four couples finds it difficult to conceive.
Infertility is defined as the inability to become pregnant after one year of trying.

Fertility Treatments

Infertility can be attributed to both men and women.
Some fertility treatments include: stimulating follicular ripening through prescription drugs for women, artificial insemination and in vitro fertilization (IVF).
IVF is costly, with each attempt costing between $12,000 and $15,000
IVF success rates vary greatly across ages (40% for women under 35 compared to 5% for women between 43-44).

Prenatal Development: Germinal Period

The first two weeks of pregnancy are known as the germinal period.
During this time, the zygote develops into a blastocyst and implants in the uterine wall (around day 6).
Between 8-50% of pregnancies end in miscarriage, with many occurring during the germinal period.

Prenatal Development: Embryonic Period

The embryonic period begins in the third week and lasts until the eighth week.
Organogenesis and cell differentiation occur during this period.
The outer layer of the blastocyst becomes the amnion (protects the embryo) and the chorion (which eventually lines the placenta).
Interior cells develop into the ectoderm, mesoderm, and endoderm.

Early Brain Development during the Embryonic Period

Begins between 18 to 26 days after conception.

Sex Differentiation

Biological sex is determined at conception, but sex differentiation starts during the 7th to 8th week of gestation.
XY results in the development of testes.
XX results in the development of ovaries.
The testes secrete testosterone, stimulating the development of the male reproductive system and suppressing the development of the female reproductive system.
In the absence of these hormones, the embryo will develop a female reproductive system.

Prenatal Development: Fetal Period

The fetal period occurs from the 9th week to birth.
Three main processes related to brain development occur during the fetal period.
The myelination of nerve fibers occurs during the fetal period.
Many neurons migrate to their permanent location in the brain.
Synaptic connections between neurons form and begin to be pruned.

Important Events from the Fetal Period

Rapid increase in body size.
Fetal movements become more frequent.
The respiratory and digestive systems mature.
The brain continues to develop.

Prenatal Influences on Infant Temperament and Behavior

Fetuses with synchronized heart rate and movement at 36 weeks gestation show better behavioral regulation at two weeks old.
Fetuses with slower and more variable heart rates show better levels of mental and language development in early childhood.
Active fetuses tend to be active, difficult, and unpredictable newborns.
Fetuses who show organized behavior in the womb also exhibit less disrupted behavior patterns at three months old.

Prenatal Environment

Fetal programming: environmental and maternal conditions during pregnancy can alter genetic expression and reset physiologic functioning of the embryo/fetus.
Prenatal experiences can change neural connections, physiology, and response to postnatal events and the environment.

The Importance of Sensitive Periods

Sensitive periods are times when the brain is most vulnerable to experiences but also when the brain is most equipped to learn and adapt.

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Description

Explore the complexities surrounding the decision to have children, including financial considerations and the science of conception. This quiz also covers the challenges couples face with infertility and various fertility treatments available. Gain insights into the impacts of these choices on marital satisfaction and quality of life.