Human beings experience a series of changes, which, in turn, promote growth. While the exists in various hallmarks during these changes, infancy has proven to be an essential aspect of growth as various factors and aspects of human life develop during this phase. This text thus aims at evaluating the prenatal development with references to a specific resource. Consequently, the prenatal step involves that period between the conception of an embryo and the birth of a child and should thus remain healthy and risk-free ( Santrock, J. W., & Santrock, J. W, 2014) . Health departments offer a wide range of prenatal tests to ensure both the mother and child remain healthy during the birthing process. The prenatal stage in life involves a series of psychological developments experienced in three significant stages, as explained below.
The Germinal stage
This is the first stage in the prenatal phase where conception occurs hence leading to the formation of a zygote which then moves from the fallopian tubes towards the uterus. This region facilitates further growth as cell division occurs in the uterus through mitosis. Implementation occurs, which marks the end of this stage and the beginning of the next phase.
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The Embryonic Stage
After the implantation, there exists a mass of cells described as the embryo, which allows for the development of the brain. At this point, the mass of cells have become distinct and hence, the formation of a human whose brain development begins during this phase. Consequently, numerous organs ranging from the head to knees develop during this time, and hence by the end of this stage, the brain and central nervous system have begun formation.
The Fetal Stage
Cell differentiation then leads to the evolution of the embryo into a fetus; a period which lasts until birth. This phase marks significant hallmarks of growth and development of the fetus as the early body systems developed in the previous stage continue to grow and become distinct. This phase is further subdivided into three stages, considered as the first, second, and third trimesters.
However, various abnormalities can affect the health of the baby before and after birth, such as genetic abnormalities. Based on the uniqueness of each individual, there exist the variations in DNA through which an individual manifest a specific disorder. This continues to be a threat to the health and development of a child before and after birth, as well as other elements such as existing health conditions ranging from HIV to hypertension. Additionally, age has shown to be a significant threat to the health and development of a child during the prenatal stages and birth since teenagers experience a wide range of pregnancy-related health issues.
Despite these risks, there exists remedies and preventive measures that can improve health during the prenatal phases and after birth for both the mother and child ( Santrock, J. W., & Santrock, J. W, 2014) . Scientists have developed a wide range of supplements to reduce health risks during pregnancy. These supplements range from vitamins to follow acid, which ensures the body of both the mother and child are receiving appropriate nutrients in the required proportions. This, in turn, reduces health risks associated with anemia and high blood pressure during pregnancy. Similarly, the health of the child is guaranteed after birth based on strong immunity developed through comprehensive supplement follow up.
Other health promotion elements include the avoidance of toxic substances such as radiation and pesticides as they may have adverse effects on the health and development of the fetus. Another aspect is regular checkups for both the mother and child during pregnancy, especially for those individuals with high risk pregnancies. This guarantees the overall health of the concerned individuals and in turn, reduced mortality rates. In conclusion, the prenatal phase facilitates the growth and development of a fetus hence preparing it for birth. This stage is, therefore, crucial, and specific measures should be established to eradicate health risks and promote overall health.
Reference
Santrock, J. W., & Santrock, J. W. (2014). Essentials of life-span development . New York, NY: McGraw-Hill.
