1. Module 4

1.14. Page 3

Lesson 3

Module 4—From Fertilization to Birth

Reflect and Connect

 

This photograph shows twin babies looking over their father’s shoulders.

© Peter Hansen/shutterstock

Did you find out your birth story? Hopefully, you were able to gain an understanding of the events surrounding your birth. Actress Jamie Lee Curtis had a ritual of having her mother tell her the story of her birth every year on her birthday. Young children love hearing over and over about how they were born. The events of your birth story, or anyone else’s, are memories that many people want to keep—some even record the process in home videos.

 

To ensure your understanding of embryonic and fetal development up to and including birth, you may choose to complete the questions on page 528 of your textbook.  Your teacher may indicate which questions are suited to your needs. Discuss your responses with your teacher.

 

Reflect on the Big Picture

 

Fertility Case Study Update

 

Jane and John have been successful in having a baby. Unfortunately, Karl and Olga and Maria and José have not been able to have a successful pregnancy to date. Each of these couples will have to make choices about how to have a family. Normal conception is not an option for them, but there are many technologies available to assist with conception and the maintenance of a successful pregnancy. 

 

Going Beyond

 

With every birth there is a possibility of conditions arising that are not typical. There is always a chance that the birthing process will not go exactly according to plan. You may wish to research one of the following options:

 

Option 1

 

Research the following terms or phrases relating to childbirth:

  • effacement
  • mucous plug
  • Braxton-Hicks contractions
  • latent phase
  • malpresentation of the fetal head
  • being born in the caul
  • epidural
  • breech birth
  • episiotomy
  • Apgar score

Option 2

 

Research how various Aboriginal cultures dealt with childbirth.

 

Module 4: Lesson 3 Assignment

 

There is no assignment for this lesson.