Stages of Prenatal Development
This stage begins at fertilization and lasts until the first 2 weeks of development.
germinal stage
This vitamin is crucial for preventing neural tube defects during pregnancy.
folic acid
This is the first organ to begin developing in the embryo, typically around the 3rd week.
the heart
This type of check-up, which typically happens once a month in early pregnancy, allows doctors to monitor the mother and fetus’s health.
prenatal visit
This process begins when the cervix dilates, signaling that labor is starting.
early labor
This stage begins around the 3rd week and ends at about the 8th week of pregnancy. It involves the formation of organs.
embryonic stage
This condition, characterized by high blood pressure during pregnancy, can be dangerous for both mother and baby.
preeclampsia
At around 16 weeks, the fetus can do this for the first time.
move around or kick
This prenatal test can detect certain genetic disorders and is done during the first trimester.
a blood test or nuchal translucency screening
During this stage of labor, the baby moves down the birth canal and is delivered.
second stage of labor
This stage begins at the 9th week and continues until birth, with rapid growth and development of the fetus.
fetal stage
Smoking during pregnancy can harm the fetus and increase the risk of this condition, which involves a baby being born smaller than expected.
low birth weight
Around 18-20 weeks, a pregnant woman may feel this for the first time as the fetus moves.
quickening
This screening test, performed around 15-20 weeks, checks for conditions like spina bifida and Down syndrome by measuring protein levels in the mother’s blood.
triple screen or quadruple screen
A cesarean section, or C-section, is often performed when the fetus cannot pass through the birth canal due to complications. What is the most common reason for a C-section?
fetal distress or abnormal position
In this week, the fetus can begin to make facial expressions and may even suck its thumb.
week 12
The second trimester is often the most comfortable for the mother, as she experiences less of this common pregnancy symptom.
morning sickness
By this week, the fetus has fully formed fingerprints and can open and close its eyes.
24 weeks
The American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists recommends that pregnant women avoid this common substances due to its negative effects on fetal development.
drugs and alcohol
What is breech position?
when the baby is upsidedown or feet first
By the 24th week of pregnancy, this critical organ in the fetus can start functioning independently outside the womb with medical support.
the lungs
This type of doctor specializes in managing pregnancy, childbirth, and the female reproductive system, and is often the primary care provider for a pregnant woman.
obstetrician (OB/GYN)
This reflex, which involves the fetus grasping objects placed in its hand, is present as early as 16 weeks.
palmar grasp reflex
This type of imaging, used during pregnancy, allows doctors to see the developing fetus, check for abnormalities, and estimate the due date.
ultrasound
This type of anesthesia, commonly administered during labor, numbs the lower half of the body and is typically delivered via a catheter in the spine.
epidural or spinal block