Question

The first movements of the foetus and appearance of hair on its head are usually observed during which month of pregnancy?

• A. Fifth month
• B. Fourth month
• C. Third month
• D. Sixth month

Answer 1

The correct option is A

Fifth month

The correct option is A:

Explanation for correct answer:

1. Human pregnancy lasts approximately 9 months.
2. The three germinal layers, namely ectoderm, endoderm, and mesoderm, give rise to all of the tissues and organs found in an adult.
3. In the fifth month, the foetus makes its first movement.
4. Hair growth in the head occurs during this time period.
5. The skin is covered with a whitish coating called vernix caseosa.
6. This "cheesy" substance is thought to protect foetal skin from long exposure to amniotic fluid.

Explanation for incorrect option;

Option B:

1. Taste buds and the ability to hear develop in the fourth month.
2. The foetal heartbeat may now be audible through an instrument called a doppler.
3. The reproductive organs and genitalia have reached full maturity.
4. On ultrasound this month, the doctor can see if the foetus will be designated male or female at birth.

Option C:

1. All of the major organ systems have developed by the end of the first trimester, or third month.
2. In the fourth week of this month, the heart is the first organ to begin functioning.
3. The heart begins to beat.
4. Arm buds and optic pits are revealed.

Option D:

1. Eyelashes are formed by the end of the second trimester, which is 24 weeks or 6 months.
2. Foetus's skin which is reddish in colour, wrinkled and veins are visible through translucent skin.
3. The finger and toe prints are visible.
4. In this stage, the eyelids begin to part and the eyes open.

Final answer: The first movements of the fetus and the appearance of hair on its head are usually observed during the fifth month of pregnancy.