2.5 Fertilization and Pregnancy

Fertilization - process that sperm fuses with ovum (egg) to form a zygote.

Pregnancy - the rapid growth and development of baby in the womb up until birth

Embryo - ball of cells formed from Zygote

Implantation - The process where the embryo imbeds in the uterine lining.

placenta - the organ where the baby develops during pregnancy

Fetus - called this after 8 weeks after fertilization where embryo is clearly human

umbilical cord - attaches the fetus to the placenta

amnion - a fluid sac that surrounds the fetus

amniotic fluid - protects the baby from harm.

gestation period - 40 week period taken for full development.

expansion of cervix to allow baby's head to pass through the vagina

strong contractions of uterus to push the baby out

Stronger contractions of the uterus to expel the umbilical cord and placenta.