Identify and describe the three periods of prenatal development. Briefly describe what occurs in each period.

Development happens quickly during the prenatal period, which is the time between conception and birth. This period is generally divided into three stages: the germinal stage, the embryonic stage, and the fetal stage.

First or the germinal stage - time span: conception at two weeks

development that occurs: the key steps in establishing a pregnancy

Second or the embryonic stage - time span: third through eighth week

development that occurs: the face, eyes, ears, limbs and bones begin to form

Third or the fetal stage - time span: eighth or ninth week through birth

development that occurs: the vocal cords develop, and the digestive system and kidneys begin to function. spontaneous or unplanned, movements are possible by the end of the third month