Part of the Series : Beginning the Journey...Research shows that our development in the womb can have a profound influence on our later lives. This video examines the nine months beginning with conception and ending with the birth of a healthy baby—the period of time called prenatal development. In addition, this video contains information on the major physical milestones during pregnancy, emphasizing the importance of the expectant mother’s health, nutrition, and care and describing the proper development of the baby. It also shares what mothers-to-be can look forward to during these crucial months. Proper prenatal care provides a healthy start and is essential to the entire process of human development. A Meridian Production. (21 minutes) Closed Captioned ContentsThree Stages of Pregnancy (01:56)Conception occurs when an egg is released from the ovaries and becomes fertilized by a sperm. The three stages of pregnancy are the zygote stage, embryo stage, and fetus stage.Importance of Prenatal Care (03:10)Four main causes of birth defects include heredity, environment, genetic disorders, and chromosomal errors. Prenatal care and avoiding risk factors help reduce occurrence of birth defects.First Trimester (03:25)The first trimester occurs from conception to the 13th week. It is crucial to avoid drugs and alcohol and follow nutritional guidelines during the embryo's brain and vital organ development.Second Trimester (02:31)The second trimester occurs from the 14th to the 28th weeks of pregnancy. A nutritious diet and moderate exercise contributes to a healthy pregnancy as the baby's organs continue to form.Third Trimester (02:05)The third trimester occurs from the 28th week to delivery around 40 weeks. At this time the baby gains weight and the organs get specialization. During the last month the baby shifts downward.Labor and Delivery (02:38)The cervix begins to open in first stage of labor. It becomes fully dilated during transitional labor, the second stage when the mother begins pushing. Third stage includes delivery of baby and placenta.Post Delivery (03:05)New mothers need to take time to recuperate, making the physical and emotional adjustment from a pregnant to a non-pregnant state. It is important to follow up with a post-natal check-up. If you are purchasing a 3-Year Streaming option, you will receive a link for your videos via email within 24 - 48 hours. If you are making your order on a weekend, the order will be processed on the next business day.
