The development of the embryo from conception to 4 weeks gestation.
About 3 days after conception, the zygote now consists of 16 cells and is called a 16 cell morula (a.k.a. pre-embryo). The embryo has normally reached the junction of the fallopian tube and the uterus. After 5 days, a cavity appears in the center of the morula. The grouping of cells are now called a blastocyst. It has an inner group of cells which will become the fetus and later the newborn. It has an outer shell of cells which will become the membranes that nourish and protect the inner group of cells. The embryo has traveled down the fallopian tubes and has started to attach itself to the inside wall of the uterus. The cells in the inside of the blastocyst, called the embryoblast, start forming the embryo. The outer cells, called the trophoblast, start to form the placenta. It continues to be referred to as a pre-embryo. About 9 or 10 days after conception, the blastocyst has fully attached itself to the inside wall of the uterus. Primitive placental blood circulation has begun. About 12 days after, the blastocyst has started to produce hormones which can be detected in the woman's urine. When the embryo is 3 weeks old, it will be about 1/12" long, the size of a pencil point. It most closely resembles a worm - long and thin and with a segmented end. The embryo's heart begins to beat about 18 to 21 days after conception. 4 weeks after conception, the embryo is now about 1/5" long. The embryo looks something like a tadpole. The structure that will develop into a head is visible, as is a noticeable tail. The embryo has structures like the gills of a fish in the area that will later develop into a throat.
What are all of the changes going on within Mom's body and changes going on with Dad?
The changes in the mom's body are that she will experience more fatigue and will need more rest. The abdomen will protrude slightly in the first few weeks because the uterus is growing. Also, the breasts tend to enlarge because hormones are preparing the breasts for milk production. During the first trimester, a woman may experience morning sickness. Emotional changes that occur during pregnancy are that a woman's hormones are changing tremendously. Mood swings are very common because of these hormone changes and it is not something you have much control over. Pregnant women have many emotional ups and downs. Many women experience feelings of panic, extreme reactions to minor things, and even crying. Also, women begin to have anxiety because they worry if the baby will be "normal" or what problems could occur during labor. Women worry especially about the health of their baby and if the baby will have any problems.
An expecting father experiences new emotions throughout the pregnancy. Men have fears associated with being a good father and caretaker. It is important to express all of these concerns with your partner, so that you can both work together in coping with the expected changes and planning your new arrival. Many fathers experience stress and depression because they do not have the bond to the child that the mother does. Often, fathers feel like they aren't as important because they do not get to feel the connection the baby that the mother does.
What are some things a Mom/Dad should be thinking about doing now that you have discovered you are pregnant?
A mom and dad both should avoid tobacco smoke and smoking in general. Also, the mother should avoid Caffeine because it stimulates the heart and brain of the unborn baby, and is an addictive substance with drug-like qualities. The mother should also be avoiding alcohol, saunas, paint, and vitamin A supplements. Mothers should be the healthiest they can be for their baby and should also be stress free. Mothers should try to surround themselves with happy things and have a happy environment. Fathers should be calm for their wives and also should be stress free.
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