Lecture NOTES

1. Introduction

1.1 Overview

• This module covers the physiological events from fertilization to parturition (birth).
• Focus areas include:
• Gamete interaction
• Early embryonic development
• Implantation and placentation
• Maternal physiological adaptations
• Fetal development
• Labour and delivery mechanisms

1.2 Learning Objectives

By the end of the module, students should understand:

• The steps of fertilization
• Mechanisms of implantation
• Hormonal control of pregnancy
• Maternal–fetal physiological changes
• Stages of labour and the birth process