The Female Reproductive System

By: Kathryn McLaughlin

GynecologyThe medical specialty of the study of the female reproductive system

GynecologistA physician who specializes in the treatment of women

Gestation is the length of time from conception to birth, usually nine months; forty weeks.

It is calculated from the first day of the last menstrual period, with a range from 259-280 days.

A baby born before 37 weeks gestation is considered premature.

GestationThe time required for the development of a fetus

TrimesterGestation is divided into three trimesters, or stages of development

Weeks 1-12 Week 1-8 called an

embryo Weeks 8-12 called

a fetus All major organs

and body systems are formed

First Trimester

Weeks 13-27 Women start to

look pregnant and may begin to wear maternity clothes

Easiest stage of pregnancy

Morning sickness usually subsides

Second Trimester

Week 28-Birth Full term is 37-42

weeks Baby grows and

organs mature Frequent fetal

movement Discomfort

increases as delivery nears

Third Trimester