From conception to birth, the nine-month journey of pregnancy is a beautiful process that happens all over the world. Human development begins when two gametes, the sperm and the egg, unite to create a new being. A child is made up of 23 chromosomes from each parent for a total of 46 chromosomes. There are three stages of pregnancy, which include the 1st, 2nd and 3rd trimester. Additionally, three periods can also help describe prenatal development. The periods of pregnancy are described as follows:1. The germinal period (first two weeks after conception): rapid cell division and initiation of cell differentiation2. The embryonic period (from the 3rd to the 8th week): the basic forms of all body structures develop3. The fetal period (9th week until birth): The fetus grows in size and matures in functioning. “Research shows that our development in the womb can have a profound influence on our later lives” (Prenatal Development). Adequate prenatal care is essential for a healthy pregnancy for both mother and baby. The mother's health, nutrition and self-care are crucial during the nine-month period, as well as after giving birth. In today's age, information is easily accessible to assist in a healthy pregnancy. However, in several parts of the world this is not always possible without guided assistance. For example, as seen in the video, in the small nation of Lesotho one in forty-eight women dies during childbirth (Risking Life). Minor complications can become life-threatening for both mother and baby. Twelve simple steps to a healthy pregnancy for both mother and baby are as follows: Prenatal care: Call your doctor as soon as possible to schedule your first prenatal birth. such as excitement, anxiety, fear and finally depression. Talking to your doctor or psychiatrist about your emotions and symptoms will help you in your new role as a mother. Therapy and/or medications can help with associated depression. All in all, pregnancy and delivery of a baby is a life-changing event. I found this wonderful quote and wanted to share it with the class. “Motherhood and fatherhood are a choice you make every day, to put someone else's happiness and well-being ahead of your own, to teach difficult lessons, to do the right thing even when you're not sure what the right thing is. ..and forgive yourself, over and over, for doing everything wrong (Donna Ball).” Prenatal development. Films on demand. Films Media Group, 2001. Web. 10 September 2015. "Risking her life to give birth - PIH Lesotho." YouTube. Partners in Healthcare and Web. 10 September. 2015.