Fetus Growth Stages
The journey from individual cell to an individual is a fascinating one. A normal pregnancy lasts for 39 to 40 weeks. The stages of development are fertilized egg, blastocyst, embryo and finally a fetus.
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Fertilized Egg
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During ovulation, the sperm enters the uterus and implants itself into the egg. Fertilization occurs when the sperm penetrates the egg.
Blastocyst
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The fertilized egg develops into a ball of cells, or blastocyst. This development begins five to eight days after fertilization. During this time, the blastocyst attaches itself to the lining of the uterus.
Embryo
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The blastocyst continues to develop into an embryo. By week three, internal organs begin to form. During this time, the brain and spinal cord, heart and major blood vessels develop.
Fetus
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By week 10 of the pregnancy, the embryo is now considered a fetus. By week 12, the fetus fills the uterine cavity and the sex can now be determined. Fetal movement can be felt anywhere from 16 to 20 weeks.
Viability
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By 23 to 24 weeks, the fetus is considered viable, or able to survive outside the womb. The lungs and other major organs are not yet fully mature at this point, and complications are common when a fetus is born so far in advance of the full gestational period of 40 weeks.
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On many medical topics, there are dissenting opinions. One subject that almost everyone agrees on is when the best time is to go to the doctor when you are pregnant. The main answer for this question is as soon as possible when you think or find out
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A normal fetal heartbeat can range between 110 to 160 beats a minute, compared to 60 to 100 beats per minute in adults. You cant hear the fetal heartbeat from outside the womb without using monitoring equipment. Speed Changes The he
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I understand youre concerned about your breast growth during pregnancy. Its natural to experience a wide range of physical changes, and its important to remember that everyones experience is different. Heres what you should know:* Breast growth is no
