Stages
The stage of prenatal development during weeks 9-birth, when the fetus grows rapidly and organs mature.
fetal stage
The number of trimesters in a pregnancy
Three
A crucial vitamin for fetal neural tube development.
folic acid
A test that uses sound waves to create images of the fetus; monitors fetal growth, development, and detects any abnormalities.
ultrasound/sonogram
The second trimester is known as the "golden period".
fact: The second trimester of pregnancy is often called the "golden period" because many of the unpleasant effects of early pregnancy disappear.
The stage of prenatal development during the first two weeks after conception.
germinal stage
The typical length of a pregnancy
40 weeks/nine months
A vitamin important for bone and teeth development.
Calcium
Drug or other substance capable of interfering with the development of an embryo/fetus that may lead to birth defects.
teratogen
Morning sickness only happens in the morning
myth; Nausea (and/or vomiting) during pregnancy can occur at any time of day
The stage of prenatal development during weeks 3-8, when major organs and body systems begin to form.
embryonic stage
Most miscarriages occur in this trimester.
First trimester
A vitamin important for red blood cell production.
Iron
The three types of fetal abnormalities.
genetic, chromosomal, structural
Pregnant women should avoid lifting heavy objects.
Myth (within reason)
The zygote attaches itself into the lining of the uterus where it will develop for the next nine months.
implantation
First movements felt by the mother during the second trimester.
quickening
An antioxidant that helps protect cells from damage; plays a role in baby's immune system development.
vitamin E
A needle is inserted into the abdomen to withdraw a sample of amniotic fluid to test for genetic disorders.
Amniocentesis
Stress during pregnancy can cause birth defects.
Myth (moderate stress is normal)
Stage the heart starts to beat
Embryonic
the approximate weeks a fetus can survive on its own
22-24 weeks
essential for the metabolism of carbohydrates, which provide energy for the developing fetus.
Vitamin B1 (thiamine)
A small sample of tissue is taken from the placenta to check for genetic disorders.
Chorionic Villus Sampling (CVS)
A woman's mood during pregnancy can affect the baby's temperament.
Fact