Fetal Growth and Development

Conception

1. Fertilization
2. Implantation

Month 1 (0-6 weeks)

 Following conception, the cells divide rapidly and begin to form primitive
organs (spinal cord, heart, etc).

 The embryo is 1/4 inch in length by 4 weeks (10,000 times larger than at
conception). The heart begins to beat.

 The placenta begins to grow and makes a hormone (HcG) that is used to
diagnose pregnancy.
Month 2 (6-10 weeks)

 The embryo is now 1 1/8 inch by 8 weeks.

 The heart is beating and functioning.
 The eyes, nose, and teeth buds are formed and the embryo starts to move its arms and
legs.
 Organs (spinal cord, stomach, liver, kidneys, etc) are quickly developing in structure.
 An ultrasound performed at this time would reveal the embryo.

Month 3 (10-14 weeks)

 The fetus is 2 1/2 to 3 inches long and weighs 1/2 to 1 oz.

 The hands, arms, legs, and toes are fully developed.
  Most organs have completed structural development but not all are functioning yet.
 Fetal movement can be seen on ultrasound (although not detected by the mother).

Month 4 (14-18 weeks)

 The fetus is now 6-7 inches long and weighs 7 oz.

 The fingers and toes become more defined. The gender of the fetus is apparent.
 The fetus exhibits reflex activity such as swallowing and the kidneys begin to make
urine.
 The skin is thin and transparent.

Month 5 (19- 23 weeks)

  The fetus has grown to 8-10 inches and now weighs 3/4 to 1 lb.
 Fetal hair begins to grow (including eyebrows and eyelashes) and fetal movement
("twitches") may be felt by the mother.
 The organs continue to mature functionally but are still immature.
 Babies born at this time have a poor chance of survival.

Month 6 (24-28 weeks)

 The fetus is now 12- 14 inches long and weighs 1 1/2 to 2 lbs.
 If born during this period, he/she has an increasing chance for survival.
 Fetal hiccupping begins.
 Eye movement (opening and closing) begins.
 Babies can be seen on ultrasound sucking their thumbs.
Month 7 (28-32 weeks)

 The fetus is now 14-17 inches long and weighs 2-3 1/2 lbs.
 The skin becomes less transparent as fat deposits develop under the skin and in other
areas.
 Brain tissue is forming rapidly. He/She may respond to loud noises.
 Organs are almost fully mature except for the lungs.
 Cycles of sleep and wakefulness become more noticeable.

Month 8 (32-36 weeks)

 The fetus has grown to 17-19 inches long and now weighs 3 1/2-6 lbs.
 This is the most rapid period of body growth.
 Hair follicles develop. If born, baby has excellent chance of survival.
 He/She begins to move down into the pelvis in preparation for birth.
Month 9 (36-40 weeks)

 The fetus is now fully developed.

 He/She is 19-22 inches long and weighs 6-8 lbs.
 The lungs become mature and all organs are completely functioning.
 The head is deep into the pelvis, and false labor is common.