Growth of a Fetus

An embryo grows and develops from a cluster of cells to a fully formed

fetus.

4-day blastula

• Embryo has 16 cells• Not yet implanted in the uterus

5-week embryo

• Heart is beating• Beginning of eyes, arms, and legs are visible• < 1 cm

8-week FETUS

• Embryo is now called a fetus• Has all basic organs and systems• 2-3 cm

This is just a representation. NOT REAL!!

16-week fetus

• Can move around in womb• Hair, eyelashes and eyebrows are growing• 12 cm

7-8 month fetus

• About 35-40 cm in length• 3.3-5.1 pounds• The fetus usually gains at least 2.2 pounds

during the final month of pregnancy