Pregnancy Process

* The developing cells are called a fetus from the 8TH WEEK TO THE TIME OF BIRTH

* The uterus rises out of the pelvis and becomes an abdominal organ about the 12TH WEEK OF PREGNANCY.

* First fetal movements felt by the mother is known as QUICKENING.

> Ballotment - Bouncing effect
> Lightening - Lowering of the Fundus

* In prenatal development, growth is most rapid in the 3RD TRIMESTER.

* A young couple in eager anticipation for their child's birth asks, when does the rudimentary foundation of the baby system such as a brain and heart beat are formed?" The nurse answers: 4 WEEKS.



* Prenatal Teachings:
1. 1st Trimester - Growth of fetus, interventions for nausea & vomiting, expectations for care.
2. 2nd Trimester - Growth of the fetus, personal hygiene, & nutritional guideline.
3. 3rd Trimester - Preparation for the baby, travel to the hospital, signs of labor, Danger signs of preeclampsia, relaxation breathing technique.

* A client is in her 2nd trimester, while listening to the fetal heart, the nurse hears heartbeat at the rate of 136 in the right upper quadrant and also at the midline below the umbilicus. The source of these sounds are FETAL RATE and FUNIC SOUFFLE.

* The nurse explains to a pregnant couple that in child birth classes the emphasis is on EDUCATION, BREATHING AND EXERCISE.

*When developing a series of parent classes on fetal development, The nurse will include EXTERNAL GENETALIA as being developed by the end of the 3rd month (9-12weeks).