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Multiple Choice
During which stage of human development is the risk of birth defects and miscarriage the highest?
A
Embryonic stage
B
Neonatal stage
C
Infancy
D
Fetal stage
Verified step by step guidance
1
Understand the stages of human development: The stages include the embryonic stage, fetal stage, neonatal stage, and infancy. Each stage represents a different phase of growth and development.
Focus on the embryonic stage: This stage occurs from fertilization to the end of the eighth week of pregnancy. During this time, the major organs and structures of the body begin to form.
Recognize the significance of the embryonic stage: The embryonic stage is a critical period because the developing embryo is highly sensitive to external factors such as toxins, infections, and genetic abnormalities. These factors can lead to birth defects or miscarriage.
Compare the embryonic stage to other stages: The fetal stage (from the ninth week to birth) involves growth and maturation of already formed structures, while the neonatal stage (birth to 28 days) and infancy (up to one year) focus on post-birth development. These later stages are less susceptible to the risks seen in the embryonic stage.
Conclude that the risk of birth defects and miscarriage is highest during the embryonic stage due to the rapid and critical development of organs and structures during this time.