In this book you will learn everything there is to know about pregnancy and prenatal development....AND MORE!

Menstrual cycle

• Menstruation is shedding of the unused uterine lining. This happens when pregnancy has not occurred and it takes place 1-5 days. Next is the postmenstrual. This is when the endometrium or uterine lining is thin. Next it is the resting stage. This is where the egg begins to mature and this happens at 6-9 days. Then, Ovulation and this is where the endometrium thickens. After that the matured egg breaks from sac and egg leaves ovary and then the egg enters fallopian tube. At this point egg can be fertilized if sperm is present and  this is at  10-14 days. Finally it is the  Premenstrual And this is where the  Uterus continues to thicken in preparation for an egg and If egg isn’t fertilized egg will disintegrate. Then,  Uterine lining is not needed and is ready to be shed.This happens at 15-28 days

Fertilization

Fertilization takes place in the fallopian tubes. Each parent gives 23 chromosomes to baby. The sperm is stored in the epididymis and the eggs are stoned in the ovaries. Both of those factors are needed for conception. Sperm can survive in a woman's body for 3-5 days. An egg can survive outside the ovary for 24-48 hours.

Conception

Conception is where the egg is fertilized. To be fertilized sperm must be present and the mother must have healthy eggs.

Birth Defects

A birth defect is when a baby is born with a disability or illness. In order to avoid a birth defect avoid smoking and alcohol . Stay away from raw meat and fish. Also, take folic acid supplements. One of the most common birth defects is cleft palate and this is where the lip and cleft do not fully form.

What To Avoid During Pregnancy

Mothers should avoid hot tubs and any extremely hot conditions. They also should avoid raw cookie dough and raw meat. Smoking and drinking needs to be avoided as well. If a mother follows all of these things to avoid, she will be doing the best thing for her baby.

Trimester 1

In the first trimester it is normal to experience morning sickness. Morning sickness is the first sign of pregnancy. The baby's heart will begin to beat, kick its feet and most vital organs are beginning to develop.

Trimester 2

During this trimester, The outlines of the baby's face can be noticed. Also, the baby can hear the outside world and suck it's thumb. The mother begins to have a lot of craving in this trimester.