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 recently given birth. It examines the birth parent 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. The chapter focuses on biological issues affecting the fetus, many of the theories can help guide social workers’ assessment and intervention with clients who are pregnant. It discusses some aspects of pregnancy that need to be considered in clients’ immediate environmental context. 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. Social workers are likely to confront many biopsychosocial issues when intervening with pregnant clients regardless of whether the pregnancy was planned or unplanned.
