Title: foetal growth in pregnancy 30 April 2019 Learning question: What is antenatal care and why is it important? Homework:

Aims from specification (h) explain the use of fetal ultrasonography, amniocentesis and chorionic villus sampling (CVS) for detecting named disorders and assessing fetal development. The advantages and disadvantages of each technique should be outlined (HSW6a, 6b);

Diet in pregnancy DRVs (dietary are reference values) published give advice to women about healthy eating during pregnancy. Calcium - teeth, bone plasma levels, nervous system function and muscle contraction Iron - haemoglobin formation Vitamin A - rhodopsin (present in rod cells on retina) Vitamin C – several functions, including collagen formation

Measuring foetal growth during pregnancy Ultrasound scans are commonly used during pregnancy to produce images of the baby in the womb. As sound waves are used rather than radiation, the procedure is safe. The mother’s bladder must be full and a gel is put on her abdomen so there is no air between the instrument and the body

Ultrasound scans Detect if mother is having twins or single baby 18 weeks – most organs can be seen. Scans show if the organs are developing properly Umbilical cord is studied to see if oxygen and nutrients are getting to foetus Shows position of cervix – if in abnormal location (cervix), can cause serious problems at birth – Casearean delivery may be needed

Measuring foetal growth Baby is measured by a midwife to determine when it is due This measurement also determines if the baby is the right size for its age Two main measurements are carried out: Crown-rump length Length of foetus from top of its head to its bottom Biparietal diameter width of head at its widest. Normally done only after 12 weeks