Short Answer 12. What is a chorion? 13. What is the importance of human chorionic gonadotropic hormone? 14. In the blastocyst, what does the ectoderm layer (outer layer) later form? 15. What are the possible effects of amniocentesis on the unborn child? 16. If a doctor wanted to induce labour in a pregnant woman what hormone could be injected? 17. List five general points that describe the 28-30 day menstruation cycle and indicate when during the cycle the woman is most fertile.

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Short Answer 12. What is a chorion? 13. What is the importance of human chorionic gonadotropic hormone? 14. In the blastocyst, what does the ectoderm layer (outer layer) later form? 15. What are the possible effects of amniocentesis on the unborn child? 16. If a doctor wanted to induce labour in a pregnant woman what hormone could be injected? 17. List five general points that describe the 28-30 day menstruation cycle and indicate when during the cycle the woman is most fertile.

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12. The **chorion** is the outermost membrane surrounding an embryo of a reptile, bird, or mammal. In mammals (including humans), it contributes to the formation of the placenta.13. **Human chorionic gonadotropic hormone (hCG)** is vital for maintaining the corpus luteum during early pregnancy. The corpus luteum produces progesterone, which is essential for thickening the uterine lining and supporting the developing embryo/fetus. hCG is also what is detected in pregnancy tests.14. The **ectoderm**, the outer layer of the blastocyst, develops into the epidermis (skin), nervous system (brain and spinal cord), and other related structures like hair, nails, and tooth enamel.15. While generally safe, **amniocentesis** carries some risks, including miscarriage, infection, needle injury to the fetus, and leaking of amniotic fluid.16. **Oxytocin** or a synthetic version of **prostaglandins** can be injected to induce labor.17. The menstrual cycle, averaging 28-30 days, involves the following:* **Day 1:** Menstruation (shedding of the uterine lining) begins.* **Days 4-14 (approximately):** The follicular phase, where the uterine lining thickens and a follicle containing an egg matures in the ovary.* **Around Day 14:** Ovulation occurs – the mature egg is released from the ovary. This is the most fertile period.* **Days 15-28 (approximately):** The luteal phase, where the corpus luteum (remnant of the follicle) produces progesterone, further preparing the uterus for potential implantation. If fertilization doesn't occur, the corpus luteum degenerates, progesterone levels drop, and the cycle begins again.* **Hormonal fluctuations:** Estrogen and progesterone levels rise and fall throughout the cycle, influencing the uterine lining and other bodily processes.

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