Reproduction

• Targets• To learn about the uterus as the home of the

developing baby

KEY WORDS

• Placenta• Fetus• Umbilical cord• Placenta

The Placenta

Placenta

     Food store in the mother for the baby. This will come away after the birth. It is then known as the ‘afterbirth’.

Questions – Spectrum 7 -page 19

Amniotic fluid

• The amniotic fluid surrounds the baby to support the baby and protect it from shocks and bumps.

Questions – Spectrum 7 -page 19

The growing baby

• The baby is attached to its mother by the umbilical cord. This cord brings oxygen and food to the baby from its mother. It also takes out waste like carbon dioxide and urea.

Questions – Spectrum 7 -page 19

The Embryo

Embryo Development

Embryo

• This is a fertilized ova which has started to grow into a baby. No visible features.

Questions – Core Science 2 -page 11

Foetus

• This is a developing baby. Has visible head and limbs at about 4 weeks. Becomes viable at about 28 weeks.

Questions – Core Science 2 -page 11

Umbilical cord

• Tube which connects the baby to its mother, down which the supply of food and oxygen travels in the blood. This is cut after birth.

Questions – Core Science 2 -page 11

Amniotic sac – protects the baby

Inside the womb

Placenta – allows the mother’s blood to come close to the baby’s to allow exchange of food, oxygen and wastes

Umbilical cord – connects the baby to the mother

Birth

Giving birthThe following events happen when a woman is about to give birth:

1) The amniotic sac bursts (“water breaking”)

2) Muscles in the uterus wall start contracting to push the baby out

3) The muscles in the cervix relax and widen