10.16: Conclusion
Conception is the union between a sperm and an ovum. The fetus develops from this union. During pregnancy, prenatal development is generally split into three trimesters in which the fetus develops. There are corresponding bodily changes in the mother during each of these phases of pregnancy. During pregnancy, the health of the mother is vital for the healthy development of the fetus. Good nutrition and health care are part of this. Childbirth begins with the onset of regular contractions of the uterus, which efface and dilate the cervix. Following this, during vaginal childbirth, the baby appears and the umbilical cord is clamped and cut. The placenta then is expelled. The postpartum period includes finding the best option for getting the baby the best nutrition possible often by breastfeeding or high quality infant formula. This period marks a large wave of emotions associated with hormonal and life changes, and sometimes, postpartum depression is associated with early motherhood, and most care providers are well-trained to support new mothers experiencing this.