The baby in the prenatal period is called Zygote in the first 2 weeks, embryo between weeks 3 and 8, and fetus, from the 3rd month onwards, between weeks 9 and 38. The age of the baby’s viability, where the baby would survive, starts between 22 and 26 weeks.

Berk (2013) discussed many elements or factors that could negatively impact the baby prior to birth. Hereditary factors might be hard to avoid but harmful environmental factors, or teratogens, need to be taken seriously.

The negative effect of the teratogen will be more significant if the organ, structure, or body part is going through a sensitive period of development.

As the effect can be damaging very early in the pregnancy, it becomes vital to avoid teratogens. The embryonic period, between 3 and 8 weeks, seems to be the period where teratogens can have the most impact.  As early as week 3, teratogens can have a major impact on the central nervous system, heart, upper and lower limbs, ears, and eyes. The sensitive period for ears, eyes, and the central nervous system continues. Damage could occur in other times but might be less harmful.

Pregnant mothers need to be very careful with prescribed, non-prescribed, and illegal drugs. The danger on the baby is paramount as drugs enter the placental barrier to the baby’s bloodstream.

The use of Aspirin has been debated with some studies relating its regular use by pregnant mothers to low birth weight. The use of illegal drugs such as cocaine and heroin puts the baby at risk for addiction, prematurity, or even death around birth.

Alcohol consumption has been related to facial abnormalities and a slow physical growth.

Smoking has been related to low birth weight, miscarriage, prematurity, and heart malfunctioning. Low birth weight and prematurity were also related to the excessive consumption of cola, tea, coffee, and cocoa.

The dosage, timing, and length of consumption/exposure of the above teratogens lead to varied effects.

Other teratogens include prenatal malnutrition, radiation, mercury, lead, viruses such as rubella (German measles), toxoplasma parasite, and AIDS.

On the other hand, a balanced nutrition and a healthy physical activity were related to increased birth weight. The Apgar Scale is used to assess the newborn’s appearance, pulse, grimace, activity, and respiration.

Caring for children before birth gives them a strong start in life. In a complex world, the best thing we could offer a child is the road to success. Prenatal care sets the way.

Reference:
Berk, L. E. (2013). Child development (9th ed.). Upper Saddle River, NJ: Pearson.

 

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