This work aims to provide a detailed reasoned map of fetal behavior by describing its features and evolution from 10 to 25 weeks gestation. Each behavioral event is described, measured in seconds and presented as it occurs in its natural sequence, thus providing a ‘real-time’ picture of fetal behavior. Links between events become clear, and events are connected to the changing anatomy and physiology of the nervous system and of the fetal body in general. Transient behaviour with its underlying structures and possible functions is carefully distinguished from anticipatory functions heralding post-natal life. Furthermore, phenomena of physiologic significance during prenatal life, but which can acquire pathological connotations for the premature infant having to meet the different requirements of the post-natal environment, are also outlined. Finally, various prenatal ‘myths’ are discussed, in order to give scientific information on issues that are particularly relevant, given the heated pro-life versus pro-choice debate.
After graduating as M.D. and specializing in Neurology and Psychiatry in Italy , Dr Piontelli spent 1 year doing her internship in Delhi, India. Subsequently she worked and lived for many years in England where she was part of the teaching staff of the Tavitock Clinic, Dept of Children and Parents, London.
Back in her country Dr Piontelli has been a Visiting Professor of Child Neurology and Psychiatry in several Universities.
When in Italy she works in the department of maternal-fetal medicine of the University of Milan. Dr Piontelli had a long training in Obstetrics and, besides clinical work, she is an expert in fetal behavior. Additionally she works as a doctor with immigrant communities.
During the last 10 years or so, she has often been abroad on medical missions in many developing countries.
Currently Dr Piontelli is working as a psychiatrist and a neurologist for a big organization in Northern Uganda. A terrible war has been raging in the region for more than 22 years. When in Uganda she deals especially with young girls who fought in the war.
Dr Piontelli has been invited to lecture in many countries, including the USA.
Dr Piontelli is married and has two sons. Her eldest son lives in New York.
