“In the Womb,” a documentary released in 2005 by the National Geographic channel, is a film that explores all stages of development of a new life (“In the womb”). One of the most compelling aspects of this documentary is that it uses the most recent technologies, including computer simulation and 4D ultrasound scans, in order to show all the peculiarities of the prenatal period. The film provides a scientific perspective on every significant stage of the development of new life, such as conception, embryonic and fetal development as well as birth. As the film begins, glimpses of a developing fetus, which is ready to enter the world, are shown. After that, the narration begins with the discussion of moments before conception, namely the description of the characteristics of sperm and egg. In this part of the documentary, particular attention is paid to the observation of the importance of genetic information, which is carried by male and female cells. It is pointed out that every combination of genetic information is unique and could not be duplicated.
After showing the process of conception, the movie elaborates on every particular stage of gestation that is represented by trimesters. During the first eight weeks of gestation, an embryo develops the most basic functions of the human body, including the nervous system and limbs. By the ninth week, an embryo transforms into a fetus, and it becomes more independent since it develops more complex body functions it begins to move and react to external provocations. By the end of the eleventh week, all organs are formed. In the later stages, the fetus is asleep most of the time as its body grows bigger. The documentary ends with the footage of an actual birthing process.
Works Cited
“In the womb – pregnancy and baby documentary.” YouTube, uploaded by Rick Morgan. 2013, Web.