alternatives to pregnancy and sexual intimacy

• abstinence: restraining oneself from indulging in sex before marriage

• celibacy: restraining oneself from sex and marriage for their entire life to deepen their connection with Christ

• chastity: restraining oneself from sex and marriage for their entire life

• restraint: self control

conception

• during sex

  • the nucleus of the ovum (egg) carries 23 chromosomes

  • the nucleus of the sperm carries 23 chromosomes

  • the nuclei unite, giving 46 chromosomes to the offspring

pregnancy

• divided into three twelve-week (3-month) trimesters

  • first trimester

    • Rapid Growth

    • Implantation

    • Umbilical chord develops at end of trimester:

      • brain

      • spinal cord

      • eyes

      • ears

      • limbs

      • genitals

      • heartbeat at 6wks

        • Weight: 28 grams (1oz)

        • Length: (3-4 inches)

  • second trimester

    • Organs develop

    • Skin and hair form

    • Bone/cartilage growth

    • Fetus floats in amniotic sac

    • Fetus very active

    • All body systems formed

      • Weight: 1kg (2.5 lbs.)

      • Length: 10-12 inches

    • Mothers abdomen protrudes

    • Mother’s body prepares to breast feed

    • Water retention is common

  • third trimester

    • Fetus grows in size and length

    • Moves to a “head down” position

    • Lots of weight gain

    • May feel uncomfortable

      • Weight: about 7 pounds

      • Length: 18-22 inches

labor

• divided into three stages

  • First Stage of Labor:  Effacement and Dilation of Cervix

  • Second Stage of Labor:  Expulsion of the Fetus

  • Third Stage of Labor:  Expulsion of the Placenta