Which term refers to the entire period of developmental growth prior to birth?

The term that refers to the entire period of developmental growth prior to birth is "gestation." Gestation encompasses all stages of development from fertilization through to the birth of the baby, including both the embryonic stage (which occurs in the first trimester) and the fetal stage (which follows).

This term is particularly important in medical and scientific contexts as it describes the complete timeline of the development process inside the uterus. The duration of gestation can vary widely among different species, and it is crucial for understanding aspects of prenatal care and the health of both the mother and the developing fetus.

While "pregnancy" might seem similar, it is often used interchangeably with gestation, but it specifically refers to the state of carrying a developing embryo or fetus in the female reproductive system. "Development" and "embryonic" refer to particular aspects or stages of growth, with development being a broad term that can apply to various life stages and embryonic specifically referring to the early stage of human development before the formation of all major organs and systems. Thus, gestation is the most comprehensive and accurate term for the overall period of growth prior to birth.