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Germinal Stage
Occurs from conception until 2 weeks implantation. During this, the zygote begins to divide rapidly. The genetic makeup and sex of the future fetus are established at the time of conception when the mother's and father's DNA are transferred. During the first week of conception the zygote divides and multiplies rapidly. It goes from a one-cell structure to two cells then four cells, etc. After 5 days of mitosis, there are 100 cells. As the cells divide they begin to be more unique forming organs. -
Embryonic Stage
2 weeks-8 weeks of pregnancy. After the zygote has divided it travels down the fallopian tubes and implants itself in the lining of the uterus. After, the blood vessels grow which then form the placenta. During the first week of the embryonic period, the disk will separate itself into 3 layers. The ectoderm, mesoderm, and endoderm. The first portion of the embryo to develop is the neural tube, this will become the spinal cord and brain. in the 2nd half, growth is fast. -
Fetal Stage
lasts from week 9-birth. The embryo is now called a fetus. The fetus is the size of a kidney bean. Between 9-12 weeks the reflexes begin to appear. At about 16 weeks the fetus is about 4.5 inches long. The hearing has developed so the fetus will begin to respond to sounds. The brain begins to grow and doubles in size from weeks 16-28. By 28 weeks thalamic brain connections begin to form, which mediates sensory input. Around 36 weeks the fetus is about ready for birth. -
First stage of labor: Early labor
The cervix opens to 4 centimeters. Most of the early labor will be spent at home. Over time contractions will get stronger, when you can no longer talk during a contraction, you might be moving into active labor. -
Second stage of labor
Your baby moves through the birth canal. This stage begins when the cervix is completely dilated. Contractions push the baby down the birth canal, with intense pressure. Your healthcare provider will tell you to push with each contraction. -
First stage of labor: active labor
During active labor, your cervix opens from 4-7 cm. It frequently indicates that your cervix is opening more quickly when you experience contractions every three to four minutes that last for about 60 seconds each. As labor progresses your water may break. After the water breaks your contractions speed up. -
Fourth stage of labor: Recovery
The baby is born, and the placenta has been delivered. Most babies are ready to nurse within a short period after birth -
Transition to second stage
Your cervix opens from 7-10 centimeters. Your cervix opens to its fullest. Contractions last about 60-90 seconds. They come every 2-3 minutes. -
Third stage of labor: Afterbirth
After the birth of the baby, the uterus continues to contract to push out the placenta. The placenta delivers about 5 to 15 minutes after the baby arrives.