Introduction
To better understand prenatal development, it is vital to outline its primary stages. According to Lynch (2019), “there are three stages of prenatal development: germinal, embryonic, and fetal” (p. 30). Notably, every stage has its own period, measured in weeks, and has specific peculiarities regarding the woman’s body state and reaction.
Prenatal Development
Germinal Stage
When considering the first stage, it is essential to note that the initial connection between the mother’s and father’s DNA occurs during this stage. The formation of the zygote happens because of the penetration of the sperm into the egg (Lynch, 2019). In other words, this stage describes the beginning of prenatal development.
Embryonic Stage
The second stage of prenatal development is the embryonic period. Its main specification is that placental formation begins. It happens because the zygote starts to travel down the fallopian tubes to form a new multicellular organism, an embryo. Notably, during embryogenesis, the embryo develops its primary body parts, including the chest, head, and abdomen (Lynch, 2019). Consequently, the form of this organism evolves into a nearly human body type.
Fetal Stage
The fetal stage of prenatal development is the last and longest stage. It lasts approximately 9-40 weeks and can be characterized by several crucial processes. For example, during the 9-12 week period, the differentiation of the sex organs in the embryo begins. Moreover, in addition to the entire body, the brain continues to grow rapidly, approximately doubling in size from weeks 16 to 28. Therefore, because the fetal stage is the final period, the organism, known as the fetus, is fully developed and ready for birth (Lynch, 2019). Understanding these stages within the weekly time frame and the embryo’s body is necessary for studying this topic.
Genetic, Environmental, Social, and Cultural Factors
It is difficult to underestimate the importance of various factors in prenatal development. My personal reflections suggest that the most crucial impact on a child’s growth during the prenatal period stems from both genetic and environmental factors. Specifically, genetics may contribute to processes such as brain development and physical state. It is inherent in the parents’ DNA, which is passed on to the embryo and cannot be altered (Wu, 2018).
On the other hand, environmental factors are the parents’ direct responsibility and should be maintained in appropriate conditions to avoid harm to the child. For example, factors such as air pollution, smoke, and the mother’s emotional distress can cause adverse effects. Cultural and social factors do not play a significant role because there is no direct affection between the mother and the child. However, it is essential to consider how parents create adequate conditions to ensure the safety of the prenatal period and which cultural aspects and beliefs may be in conflict with health standards and recommendations.
Personal Example
A specific example of the negative impact of environmental and cultural factors on the mother’s health during the prenatal period occurred with one of my close friends. His wife wanted to choose a precise hospital where she would be during the prenatal period and the birth. However, her willingness was based not on the research into the hospital’s quality of services, but on its proximity to her parents’ house. She thought that this way, she would show her parents respect and love.
Consequently, bad conditions and unprofessional service harmed her child. Further exploration of prenatal development should focus on research and regulations across cultures. Common standards should be established to prevent negative influences on a child’s development, regardless of a particular culture’s traditions and beliefs.
References
Lynch, J. (2019). Child psychology. EDTECH.
Wu, W. (2018). Pregnancy and birth outcomes. IntechOpen.