Foetal Stage

The fetal stage of human development begins after the eighth week of pregnancy and lasts until birth. During this period, the baby is called a fetus. It is the most remarkable period of growth and development, as the fetus begins to take on its own unique characteristics. During the fetal stage, the baby's organs, muscles, and bones are formed. The fetus will gain about one pound each week and grow to about 20 inches in length. By the end of the fetal period, the baby will be able to survive outside the mother's womb with medical assistance. The fetal stage is divided into three trimesters, each of which is marked by distinct developments. During the first trimester, the fetus will grow rapidly and all the major organs will be formed. The heart will begin to beat, the eyes and ears will begin to develop, and the arms and legs will bud. At the end of the first trimester, the fetus will be about three inches long. The second trimester marks a period of further development and growth. The fetus will begin to move, the skin will become covered in fine hair, and the sex organs will begin to form. By the end of the second trimester, the fetus will be about 12 inches long. The third trimester marks a period of rapid growth. The fetus will gain more fat, the lungs will begin to develop, and the bones will harden. By the end of the third trimester, the fetus will be about 16 inches long. The fetal stage is a remarkable period of growth and development. During this period, the baby will grow rapidly, its organs and muscles will form, and its body will take on its own unique characteristics. With medical assistance, the fetus can even survive outside the mother's womb by the end of the fetal stage.