Introduction to Fetal Development

Fetal development, the intricate process by which a single

fertilized cell evolves into a fully-formed human being, is a
subject of paramount significance within developmental biology
and prenatal medicine (Moore & Persaud, 2019). This process,
commencing with conception, culminates in the birth of a healthy
infant.
Understanding fetal development is crucial for healthcare
practitioners, researchers, and parents as it serves as the
foundation for prenatal care and maternal health. A deep
comprehension of its stages and intricacies equips stakeholders
to promote healthy pregnancies and ensure optimal fetal growth
(Barker, 2007).
Conception
Stage
Initiation Fusion of sperm and egg cells
Sperm penetration, genetic fusion, formation of
Key Events
zygote

Momentary - Occurs at the beginning of fetal

Duration
development

Significance Commencement of fetal development

Sadler, T. W. (2019). Langman's Medical

Reference
Embryology. Lippincott Williams & Wilkins.
Germinal Stage
Overview Initial phase post-conception

Duration First two weeks of development

Cleavage divisions, blastocyst

Key Events formation, implantation (Sadler,
2019)

Foundation for subsequent prenatal

Importance
development

Sadler, T. W. (2019). Langman's

Reference Medical Embryology. Lippincott
Williams & Wilkins.
Embryonic Stage
Third to eighth week
Duration
after conception
Formation of major
Key Focus
organ systems
Ectoderm, mesoderm,
Tissue Origin and endoderm germ
layers

Blueprint for the entire

Significance
organism

Carlson, B. M. (2019).
Human Embryology
Reference
and Developmental
Biology. Elsevier.
Development of Major Organs and Systems
Nervous System: Begins as a neural tube and develops into the brain and spinal
cord.
Cardiovascular System: Heart begins beating and gradually forms four chambers.
Respiratory System: Early lung development initiates, with branching airways
forming.
Digestive System: Formation of the mouth, esophagus, stomach, and intestines
takes place.
Musculoskeletal System: Limb buds appear and develop into limbs with bones and
muscles.
Urinary System: Kidneys, ureters, and bladder start developing for waste
elimination.
Reproductive System: Sexual differentiation occurs, determining male or female
reproductive organs.
Endocrine System: Formation of glands like the pancreas and thyroid for hormone
regulation.
Immune System: Early immune cells develop, laying the foundation for the immune
system.
Integumentary System: Skin and associated structures begin to form.

These processes occur sequentially during fetal development, with each organ and
system gradually taking shape.

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=1zpV5rzWXMA
Transition to the Fetal Stage:
The transition to the fetal stage typically
occurs at the end of the embryonic stage, At
this point, the embryo is referred to as a fetus.
Significant developments, including forming
distinct facial features, limbs, and the
beginning of organ system function mark this
transition.
Key Characteristics of the Fetus:

1. Growth and Development: The fetus grows significantly, transitioning from embryo to human form.
2. Distinct Features: Facial features, limbs, and digits become well-defined.
3. Organ Functionality: Organ systems mature, with the heart, lungs, and digestive system becoming
functional.
4. Movement: Coordinated movements, like kicking develop and intensify.
5. Sensory Development: Sensory organs develop, enhancing responses to external stimuli.
6. Body Systems: The central nervous and musculoskeletal systems continue to develop, enabling
controlled movements and reflexes.
7. Vernix and Lanugo: Protective vernix caseosa and fine lanugo hair form on the skin.
8. Gestation Continues: The fetal stage continues until birth, allowing for further maturation and
readiness for life outside the womb.
 Fetal Development
Stage Weeks Months Comparison
Beginning of Similar in size to a rice
0-4 weeks 0-1 month
Pregnancy grain

End of First About the size of a

13 weeks 3 months
Trimester calamansi fruit

Comparable to a small
Mid-Pregnancy 20 weeks 4.5 months
coconut

Approximates the size

Third Trimester Start 28 weeks 6.5 months
of a pineapple

Similar to a newborn
Full-Term (40 Weeks) 40 weeks 9 months
baby's size
Development of Fetal Senses: Fetal senses
develop progressively throughout pregnancy.

How the Fetus Perceives the External

Environment: The fetus primarily perceives the
external environment through tactile sensations,
such as movements and touches. It can also
respond to sounds, especially the mother's
heartbeat and voice. However, vision is limited
due to the darkness of the womb, and taste and
smell are influenced by the amniotic fluid.
Description of Fetal Movements:

Fetal movements, often referred to as

"quickening," are the physical actions and motions
made by the developing fetus inside the mother's
womb. These movements are indicative of the
fetus's growth and increasing neuromuscular
coordination. Fetal movements can vary in
intensity and type, ranging from subtle flutters to
more pronounced kicks and rolls.
Fetal Movements: When and How

Early Movements (First Trimester): Minimal fetal

movements, mainly related to musculoskeletal development
and simple reflexes, are not typically felt by the mother
during the early stages of pregnancy.

Quickening (Second Trimester): Fetal movements become

noticeable to the mother during the second trimester,
typically between 16 to 25 weeks of gestation. They feel like
gentle flutters or "butterflies" in the lower abdomen, creating
a tangible connection between mother and fetus.
Increased Activity (Third Trimester): In the third trimester,
fetal movements become more frequent and stronger due to
the fetus's increased size. Movements may feel like distinct
kicks and rolls, with observable patterns of activity and rest.

Monitoring Fetal Movement: Healthcare providers

encourage pregnant women to monitor fetal movements as
an indicator of the baby's well-being. Reduced fetal
movement, especially in the third trimester, may require
medical evaluation to ensure the baby's health.

Fetal movements serve as a crucial sign of a healthy

pregnancy and the well-being of the developing fetus,
providing reassurance to expectant parents.
Development Trimester-wise
- Formation of major organs and
systems
First Trimester (Weeks 1-12)
- Heartbeat begins
- Limb buds develop

- Quickening (mother feels fetal

movements)
Second Trimester (Weeks 13-27)
- Facial features become distinct
- Lungs start practicing breathing

- Increased fetal movement

- Rapid brain development
Third Trimester (Weeks 28-40)
- Accumulation of body fat
- Preparation for birth
Importance of Prenatal Care for
Fetal Development:

Prenatal care is crucial for monitoring

and ensuring the health of both the
mother and the developing fetus.
It helps detect and manage potential
complications or risks early, promoting
a healthier pregnancy and birth.
Recommendations for Expectant Mothers:
• Regularly attend prenatal check-ups as advised by healthcare providers.
• Follow a balanced diet, rich in essential nutrients, and take prescribed
prenatal vitamins.
• Stay physically active with appropriate exercises, as recommended by a
healthcare provider.
• Avoid harmful substances like alcohol, tobacco, and recreational drugs.
• Manage stress and seek support from healthcare professionals or support
networks.
• Educate yourself about pregnancy, childbirth, and newborn care to make
informed choices.
• Prenatal care is a fundamental aspect of a healthy pregnancy, ensuring the
well-being of both the mother and the developing baby.
The Father
•Pregnancy is a cooperative project
of both the man and the woman
from initiation through growth and
maturation until the delivery of
the child. The father plays an
indispensable and essential role as
a constant source of love and
support. Some fathers even
experience similar symptoms as
the mothers do in a phenomenon
called sympathetic pregnancy
Childbirth, Labor and Delivery
• Childbirth should be natural, healthy, participatory and joyous
experience
• Labor is characterized by regular uterine contractions of increasing
intensity and longer duration, which result in the expulsion of the
mucus plug, opening or dilation of lower portion of uterus (Cervix),
some bleeding, and in the last stage of labor, rapture of the bag of
waters and the woman’s urge to push.
• Delivery- with more intense ad continuous uterine contractions a
woman's pushing efforts, the baby is born.
• Cesarean section( C-section) This process involves cutting through
the abdomen to deliver the baby.
After Delivery
• Brest milk is best for the first six months. Gold Standard for
infant feeding. It protects the baby against infections, and
results in less allergy, healthier growth, better
neurodevelopment, and lower rates of chronic disease.
• Breastfeeding helps the uterus contact to reduce bleeding
and reconditions the uterine muscles stretched by pregnancy.
• Republic Act No. 7600, also known as “The Rooming-in and
Breastfeeding Act of 1992,” requires all private and
government health institutions to adopt rooming-in and
breastfeeding practices.