Why is it that 22 weeks is considered the earliest "age of viability" for an unborn child?
A) Because this is the age by which the child's systems are functioning well enough to potentially sustain life outside of the mother's body.
B) Because it is not until this age that the unborn child's brain begins developing.
C) Because this is the age when the child's sex is determined, and when appropriate genitals begin to form.
D) Because this is the age after which teratogens can no longer impact the baby.

Question

Why is it that 22 weeks is considered the earliest "age of viability" for an unborn child?
A) ​Because this is the age by which the child's systems are functioning well enough to potentially sustain life outside of the mother's body.
B) ​Because it is not until this age that the unborn child's brain begins developing.
C) ​Because this is the age when the child's sex is determined, and when appropriate genitals begin to form.
D) ​Because this is the age after which teratogens can no longer impact the baby.

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

At 22 weeks, the unborn child's systems, such as their respiratory and nervous systems, have developed sufficiently to potentially sustain life outside of the mother's body. This is why it is considered the earliest "age of viability."

Why Is It That 22 Weeks Is Considered the Earliest