A Journey of New Beginnings
Fetal Development: A Miracle in Progress
Explore the incredible stages of fetal development, from conception for 12 weeks, and discover the miraculous changes that happen along the way.
Fetal Development Timeline
Witness the awe-inspiring journey of life from the very first day.
Day 1
Conception
The journey begins as the sperm fertilizes the egg, marking the start of a new life. All Human Chromosomes are Present. A totally unique human life begins
Day 6
Implantation
The fertilized egg attaches to the mother’s uterine wall, beginning its growth and development.
Day 22
Heartbeat Begins
Your baby’s heart begins to beat and pump her own blood, many times a different type than her mom’s blood type
Week 3
Neural Tube Formation
By the end of the third week, your baby’s backbone, spinal column and nervous system are forming. The liver, kidneys and intestines begin to take shape
Week 4
Organ Formation
Major organs such as the heart and lungs start to take shape. By the end of week 4, your baby is ten thousand times larger than the fertilized egg.
Week 5
Limb Buds Appear
Your baby’s eyes, legs and hands begin to develop. This is about the time most women start to recognize they may be pregnant
Week 6
Brainwaves to Fingernails
Brain waves are detectable; mouth and lips are present; fingernails begin to form
Week 7
Toes & Nose
Eyelids and toes form; nose is distinct. Your baby starting kicking and swimming
Week 8
Hears Sounds
Every organ is in place, bones begin to replace cartilage, and fingerprints begin to firm. By the 8th week, your baby can begin to hear sounds
Week 9 & 10
Turns Her Head
Your baby’s teeth begin to form and her fingernails have developed. She can turn her head and frown! She can also hiccup!
Week 10 & 11
Nerves and Blood Circulation
Your baby can “breathe” amniotic fluid and urinate. At week 11, she can grasp objects placed in her hand. All her organ systems are functioning. Your baby has a skeletal structure, nerves and a blood circulation system
Week 12
Feels Pain
Your baby has all the parts necessary to experience pain, including nerves, spinal cord and thalamus. Her vocal cords are present and she can suck her thumb!
At 12 Weeks
Here she is...
Call to Action
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