Fetal Development

The period of intrauterine development constitutes one of the most vulnerable in the life cycle, with a lasting profound influence on subsequent growth. It is well known that nutrient status during gestation has the potential to have the greatest impact on both organ and tissue development during foetal development. In this Unit, nutritional needs of the foetus are discussed separately from those of the mother, because while they are clearly linked they are also quite obviously different.

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At the end of this section, you should be able to describe:

·        various stages of foetal growth and development

·        the role of the placenta in foetal development

·        the changes in the body composition of the foetus during gestation

·        the amounts and types of nutrients required by the foetus for growth and metabolism

·        the impact of maternal nutrition

·        how birth weight can influence morbidity and mortality

·        the effects of alcohol, smoking and caffeine on foetal development