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Conception, Genetics, and Prenatal Development

The document outlines the processes of conception, genetics, and prenatal development, highlighting the formation of the zygote and the influence of genes on traits. It discusses various genetic disorders, the stages of pregnancy, and factors affecting fetal health, including teratogens and maternal conditions. Additionally, it covers birth choices, stages of labor, and health assessments for newborns.

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Julia Katherine Mopla
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15 views2 pages

Conception, Genetics, and Prenatal Development

The document outlines the processes of conception, genetics, and prenatal development, highlighting the formation of the zygote and the influence of genes on traits. It discusses various genetic disorders, the stages of pregnancy, and factors affecting fetal health, including teratogens and maternal conditions. Additionally, it covers birth choices, stages of labor, and health assessments for newborns.

Uploaded by

Julia Katherine Mopla
Copyright
© © All Rights Reserved
We take content rights seriously. If you suspect this is your content, claim it here.
Available Formats
Download as PDF, TXT or read online on Scribd

Conception and Genetics

●​ Zygote Characteristics: At conception, 23 chromosomes from the sperm join with 23


from the ovum, forming 46 chromosomes in the zygote.
●​ Gene Influence: Genes determine traits through genotype (genetic makeup) and
phenotype (observable traits) via dominant-recessive patterns, polygenic traits, and
multifactorial inheritance.

Genetic and Chromosomal Disorders

●​ Disease Effects:
○​ Dominant disorders (e.g., Huntington's disease) manifest later in life.
○​ Recessive disorders (e.g., Tay-Sachs, cystic fibrosis) affect early development.
○​ Sex-linked disorders (e.g., fragile-X syndrome, hemophilia) often impact males.
●​ Chromosome Abnormalities: Disorders like Down syndrome result from abnormal
chromosome numbers or damage, affecting physical and intellectual development.

Pregnancy and Prenatal Development

●​ Trimesters:
○​ 1st trimester: Morning sickness, breast enlargement.
○​ 2nd trimester: Fetal movements felt, appetite increases.
○​ 3rd trimester: Weight gain, preparation for nursing.
●​ Prenatal Stages:
○​ Germinal phase: Zygote travels to and implants in the uterus.
○​ Embryonic phase: Organ development begins.
○​ Fetal phase: Growth and organ refinement.
●​ Male vs. Female Fetuses: Males are more active but slower in development and more
vulnerable to prenatal risks.
●​ Fetal Behaviors: Fetuses respond to stimuli and show early temperamental traits.

Problems in Prenatal Development

●​ Teratogens: Substances causing harm during critical developmental periods, influenced


by exposure timing and genetic factors.
●​ Drug Effects: Alcohol and tobacco may lead to low birth weight and learning issues.
●​ Maternal Diseases: Infections like rubella or AIDS can cause severe complications in
the fetus.
●​ Other Maternal Factors: Poor nutrition, age extremes, and chronic illnesses increase
pregnancy and infant risks.

Fetal Health Assessment and Management


●​ Techniques like ultrasounds, amniocentesis, and fetoscopy help detect and manage fetal
health issues. Some conditions are treatable in utero.

Birth and the Neonate

●​ Birth Choices: Low-risk pregnancies can safely occur in hospitals, birthing centers, or at
home.
●​ Stages of Labor:
○​ Dilation and effacement.
○​ Delivery.
○​ Placental delivery.
●​ Newborn Health:
○​ The Apgar scale assesses health immediately after birth.
○​ The Brazelton scale tracks early developmental milestones.
●​ Low Birth Weight: Infants under 2,500 grams are at higher risk of developmental and
cognitive issues.

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