ABSTRACT
This chapter explores human development from conception to birth, along with some of the issues that may present themselves when working with clients who are pregnant or who have given birth. It shows that the birth parent will be referred to as “she” and “birth mother,” even though it is important to acknowledge the possibility that the person may identify as male or gender non-binary. Given the extraordinary process of fetal development as well as the many psychosocial factors related to being pregnant, social workers need a thorough, accurate, and broad knowledge base about pregnancy, childbirth, and postnatal considerations. The fetal growth and development that takes place during the short months of pregnancy is both vast and complex. Although many women experience pregnancies without complications or problems, equipping clients with as much information as possible about fetal development can help to prevent some otherwise devastating problems with their babies.
