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Conception occurs when a sperm cell from the father fertilizes an egg cell (ovum) from the mother. During fertilization, the genetic material from both parents combines to form a zygote with 46 chromosomes (23 from each parent). This moment marks the beginning of prenatal development. Contraception methods work by preventing this fertilization process through various mechanisms such as hormonal intervention, barrier methods, or preventing ovulation.

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After fertilization, the zygote begins to divide rapidly through a process called mitosis, forming a ball of cells called a morula. This division continues as the zygote travels through the fallopian tube toward the uterus. By day 5, the developing embryo, now called a blastocyst, reaches the uterus. The blastocyst consists of an outer layer of cells that will form the placenta and an inner cell mass that will develop into the fetus.

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Around 6-10 days after fertilization, the blastocyst attaches to the uterine lining (endometrium) in a process called implantation. The cells burrow into the rich blood supply of the endometrium. This is when pregnancy officially begins and when pregnancy hormones like hCG (human chorionic gonadotropin) start being produced. This hormone is what pregnancy tests detect. Some women may experience light spotting during implantation.

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The embryonic period is a time of rapid development. During this stage, all major organs and systems begin to form through a process called differentiation. The neural tube, which will become the brain and spinal cord, develops. The heart begins to beat around week 6. Arm and leg buds appear, and facial features start to form. This is a critical period when the embryo is most vulnerable to environmental factors that can cause birth defects. By the end of this period, the embryo is about 1 inch long and weighs less than 1/8 ounce.

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At week 9, the embryo is now called a fetus. The head makes up about half of the fetus's size. External genitalia begin to develop but are not yet distinguishable as male or female. Fingernails and toenails form, and the fetus can make a fist. By week 12, all major organs are formed and functioning. The fetus begins to move, though the mother cannot yet feel these movements. The fetus is about 3 inches long and weighs about 1 ounce by the end of this period.

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During the second trimester, the fetus grows rapidly in size and weight. Around week 16-20, the mother may feel the baby's movements ('quickening'). The sex of the baby can usually be determined via ultrasound by week 20. A protective coating called vernix caseosa covers the skin, and lanugo (fine hair) appears on the body. The fetus develops sleep-wake cycles, can hear sounds from outside the womb, and may react to loud noises. By week 24, the fetus weighs about 1.5 pounds and is about 12 inches long. Survival outside the womb becomes possible, though with intensive medical care.

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Weeks 25-36: Third Trimester Early Phase

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Weeks 25-36: Third Trimester Early Phase

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The third trimester is a period of substantial weight gain and maturation of organ systems. The brain undergoes significant development. The fetus's eyes can open and close, and it can respond to light. The lungs continue to mature and produce surfactant, a substance necessary for breathing after birth. The fetus establishes regular patterns of activity and rest. By week 36, most fetuses have turned to a head-down position in preparation for birth. The average fetus at this stage weighs about 6 pounds and is 18-19 inches long.

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A pregnancy is considered full-term between weeks 37 and 40. The fetus continues to gain weight, and organ systems are fully developed. The lungs complete their maturation process. The baby drops lower in the mother's abdomen as it positions for birth (called lightening or engagement). The vernix coating thins, and the lanugo disappears. At birth, the average baby weighs 7-8 pounds and is 19-21 inches long, though healthy variations exist.

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Throughout pregnancy, maternal health directly impacts fetal development. Key recommendations include: regular prenatal care; a balanced diet rich in folic acid, iron, calcium, and protein; prenatal vitamins; avoiding alcohol, tobacco, and recreational drugs; limiting caffeine; maintaining safe physical activity; managing stress; and avoiding environmental hazards like certain chemicals, cat litter (risk of toxoplasmosis), and undercooked meats. Proper weight gain (typically 25-35 pounds for women of normal BMI) and adequate rest are also important.

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Labor typically occurs in three stages. First stage: Early labor - contractions begin and the cervix dilates to 3-4 cm; Active labor - contractions strengthen and cervix dilates to 7 cm; Transition - intense contractions and dilation to 10 cm. Second stage: The baby moves through the birth canal and is delivered (pushing stage). Third stage: The placenta is delivered. Labor may be induced or augmented medically if necessary, and cesarean delivery (C-section) may be performed for various medical indications. The average labor for first-time mothers lasts 12-24 hours, though this varies widely.

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The postnatal period, sometimes called the fourth trimester, refers to the first three months after birth. This is a time of significant adjustment for both baby and parents. For the baby, it involves adapting to life outside the womb, establishing feeding patterns, and rapid brain development. For the mother, it involves physical recovery from childbirth, hormonal changes, and possibly lactation. Proper postpartum care includes rest, nutrition, monitoring for complications like postpartum depression, and regular pediatric check-ups for the newborn. The mother-infant bonding that occurs during this period is crucial for the baby's emotional and social development.