Pregnancy is a sequence of events that normally includes fertilization, implantation, embryonic growth, and fetal growth that terminates in birth (see figure 2-1).

Even though there are many events that take place in the reproductive cycle, we cannot include every detail in this lesson. However, the following information will give descriptive events of what goes on in the uterus prior to birth. This information will also help you to recognize potential problems and to be able to intervene in the nursing care process.

Figure 2.1 Growth of the Fetus