Development of Normal Fetal Movements. the First 25 Weeks of Gestation

About this book

• This work provides a detailed reasoned map of fetal behavior from 10 to 25 weeks gestation
• Each behavioral event is described, measured in seconds and presented as it occurs in its natural sequence, thus providing a ‘real-time’ picture of fetal behavior
• Various prenatal ‘myths’ are discussed and debated, in order to offer scientific information on issues that are particularly relevant, given the heated pro-life versus pro-choice debate

This work aims to provide a detailed reasoned map of fetal behavior by describing its features and evolution from 10 to 25 weeks gestation. Each behavioral event is described, measured in seconds and presented as it occurs in its natural sequence, thus providing a ‘real-time’ picture of fetal behavior. Links between events become clear, and events are connected to the changing anatomy and physiology of the nervous system and of the fetal body in general.

Transient behaviour with its underlying structures and possible functions is carefully distinguished from anticipatory functions heralding post-natal life. Furthermore, phenomena of physiologic significance during prenatal life, but which can acquire pathological connotations for the premature infant having to meet the different requirements of the post-natal environment, are also outlined.

Finally, various prenatal ‘myths’ are discussed, in order to give scientific information on issues that are particularly relevant, given the heated pro-life versus pro-choice debate.

Written for » Professional/practitioner
Keywords » Extreme Prematurity - Fetal Behavior - Fetal Developmental Trends - Fetale Neurology - Ultrasounds
Related subjects » Gynecology - Neurology - Pediatrics - Psychology - Radiology

Table of contents

Introduction. Heartbeat. Startles, Twitches and Cloni. General Movements (also called total pattern or holokynetic movements). Hiccups. Fetal Breathing Movements and Shallow Fetal Breathing Movements. Swallowing, Sucking and Yawning. Isolated Movements (also called Ideokinetic Movements). Leg and Feet Movements. Arm and Hand Movements. Head movements, Mimic Movements, and Eye Movements. Twins. Conclusions.