Gestation

Definition

Gestation is the period during which an embryo develops inside the mother's womb, culminating in birth. It typically lasts about 40 weeks in humans.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. Adequate maternal nutrition during gestation is crucial for fetal hematologic development.
2. Iron requirements increase significantly during gestation to support increased blood volume and fetal needs.
3. Folate is essential during gestation to prevent neural tube defects and support fetal red blood cell production.
4. Vitamin B12 works synergistically with folate during gestation to ensure proper DNA synthesis and red blood cell formation.
5. Omega-3 fatty acids are important during gestation for the development of the fetal brain and may influence hematologic health.

Review Questions

• Why is iron particularly important during gestation?
• How does maternal folate intake impact fetal hematologic health?
• What role do omega-3 fatty acids play in fetal development during gestation?

Related terms

Prenatal Nutrition: The dietary considerations and nutrient intake necessary to support a healthy pregnancy.

Hematopoiesis:

The process by which new blood cells are formed, occurring primarily in the bone marrow.

Neural Tube Defects:

Birth defects of the brain, spine, or spinal cord that occur early in pregnancy due to insufficient folate levels.