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Questions and Answers
What is the period of prenatal development known as organogenesis?
What is the period of prenatal development known as organogenesis?
During which weeks of gestation does sex differentiation begin?
During which weeks of gestation does sex differentiation begin?
What role do the testes play in male reproductive system development?
What role do the testes play in male reproductive system development?
What does fetal programming refer to?
What does fetal programming refer to?
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How can heart rate and movement patterns in fetuses influence neonatal behavior?
How can heart rate and movement patterns in fetuses influence neonatal behavior?
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What is a potential outcome of prenatal alcohol exposure according to the content?
What is a potential outcome of prenatal alcohol exposure according to the content?
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What is true about active fetuses in relation to their newborn behavior?
What is true about active fetuses in relation to their newborn behavior?
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How is the inner cell mass of the blastocyst differentiated during the embryonic period?
How is the inner cell mass of the blastocyst differentiated during the embryonic period?
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What is the average success rate of in vitro fertilization (IVF) using fresh eggs in women under 35?
What is the average success rate of in vitro fertilization (IVF) using fresh eggs in women under 35?
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Which of the following is NOT a factor couples consider when deciding to have children?
Which of the following is NOT a factor couples consider when deciding to have children?
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Infertility is defined as:
Infertility is defined as:
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During which period does the zygote become a blastocyst?
During which period does the zygote become a blastocyst?
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What percentage of pregnancies potentially result in miscarriage during the germinal period?
What percentage of pregnancies potentially result in miscarriage during the germinal period?
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What is one of the most common stressors for couples undergoing fertility treatments?
What is one of the most common stressors for couples undergoing fertility treatments?
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Which of the following statements about couples without children is FALSE?
Which of the following statements about couples without children is FALSE?
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Which fertility treatment involves the direct placement of sperm into a woman’s reproductive system?
Which fertility treatment involves the direct placement of sperm into a woman’s reproductive system?
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Study Notes
Prenatal Considerations
- The decision of having children is an important one, and many couples carefully consider the timing of childbearing. More than 50% of pregnancies in the US are planned.
- Choosing to remain childless can be an active choice, or can occur passively.
- Childless couples report greater marital satisfaction, more freedom, and higher standards of living.
- The cost of child-rearing is a major consideration in the decision to have children.
Conception
- Conception happens when the sperm and egg genetic material unite to form a zygote.
- Infertility is a significant issue affecting 1 in 4 couples.
- Infertility is defined as not being able to get pregnant after a year of trying.
- Men and women are equally likely to be the cause of infertility, and there are many contributing factors.
Fertility Treatments
- Fertility treatments include prescription drugs, artificial insemination, and in vitro fertilization.
- IVF is costly, with each attempt estimated to cost between 12,000−12,000-12,000−15,000 (based on 2018 data).
- The success rate of IVF using fresh eggs is approximately 25% overall, with a higher rate for women under 35 (40%) and a significantly lower rate for women between 43-44 (5%).
Germinal Period
- The first two weeks of pregnancy are known as the germinal period.
- During this period, the zygote develops into a blastocyst (hollow ball of cells) and implants on the uterine wall (around day 6).
- Miscarriages are common during this period (estimated 8%-50% of pregnancies).
Embryonic Period
- This stage lasts from the 3rd to 8th week of pregnancy.
- Organogenesis and cell differentiation begin during this period.
- The outer layer of the blastocyst forms the amnion (protective membrane) and chorion (becomes the placenta lining).
- The interior cells become the ectoderm, mesoderm, and endoderm which will give rise to different organs and tissues.
Early Brain Development During Embryonic Period
- Brain development begins between 18 and 26 days after conception.
Sex Differentiation
- Biological sex is determined at conception by the sperm, with XY resulting in testes and XX resulting in ovaries.
- Sex differentiation begins during the 7th and 8th weeks of gestation.
- Testes produce testosterone, leading to the development of the male reproductive system and suppressing female development.
- In the absence of these hormones, a female reproductive system will develop.
Fetal Period
- This period extends from the 9th week of pregnancy to birth.
- Major brain development occurs during this period:
- Neurogenesis (new neuron production)
- Neural migration (neurons move to their final location)
- Synaptogenesis (formation of synapses)
- Other key events during this period include:
- Rapid increases in weight and size.
- Formation of internal organs and systems.
- Development of sensory capabilities, reflexes, and motor skills.
Prenatal Influences on Infant Temperament & Behavior
- Fetuses with matched heart rate and movement at 36 weeks gestation show better behavioral regulation at 2 weeks old.
- Fetuses with slower and more variable heart rates exhibit higher levels of mental and language development in early childhood.
- Active fetuses are often active, difficult, and unpredictable newborns.
- Fetuses with organized behavior in the womb tend to exhibit less disrupted patterns at 3 months old.
Prenatal Environment
- Fetal programming refers to how environmental factors and maternal conditions during pregnancy can impact genetic expression and physiological functioning of the embryo/fetus.
- Prenatal experiences can alter neural connections, physiology, and response to postnatal events and the environment.
The Importance of Sensitive Periods
- Sensitive periods are times when the brain is particularly susceptible to specific experiences.
- Exposure to certain stimuli during these periods can have profound and lasting effects on development.
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Description
Explore the essential aspects of prenatal considerations, conception, and fertility treatments. This quiz discusses the decision-making process around childbearing, the challenges of infertility, and the various fertility treatments available. Test your understanding of these critical topics related to reproductive health.
