3 Stages of Prenatal Development
Prenatal development is one of the most crucial phases of a baby’s growth. It’s miraculous how small cells become a full-grown baby in a mother’s womb. You can see an OB-GYN in Airoli to understand the ins and outs of prenatal development and get a detailed picture of what goes on in your womb when you are pregnant.
In the meantime, take a look at these three vital stages of prenatal development.
Germinal Stage (Weeks 1–2)
When sperm meet an egg in a fallopian tube, fertilization occurs. Shortly after that, the fertilized egg (also called a zygote) goes down the fallopian tube and enters the uterus. The next stage is cell division, in which the zygote divides into multiple cells.
These cells form the placenta and the fetus. The final stage of germination is implantation, where the blastocyst (the cluster of cells) attaches to the uterine wall. Successful implantation is the most crucial part of pregnancy. The germinal stage is quite critical, as pregnancies in women with a hostile uterine environment experience a miscarriage at this stage.
Embryonic Stage (Weeks 3–8)
In week 3, after conception, an embryo develops. During the embryonic stage, the baby’s brain and spinal cord form. This is also the most crucial growing phase, as the baby’s major organs develop. The growth starts with the circulatory system. Between weeks 5th and 6th, the baby’s heart starts beating. Other major body parts, facial features, arms, legs, and more become clear. The placenta supplies oxygen and vital nutrients to the baby.
Fetal Stage (Week 9–Birth)
Week 9th from conception till birth marks the fetal stage. The organs that started to take shape in the embryonic stage will continue to develop in the fetal stage. The major milestone in this stage is the baby’s movement, which starts in the second trimester. You will feel the little kicks, rolls, and other exciting movements. Your baby’s senses develop, and they can open and close their eyes.
Growth in the Second and Third Trimesters
Also called the golden period of pregnancy, the second trimester is where the magic happens. The facial features of your baby become more defined, and they can hear sounds outside the womb. That’s why mothers are encouraged to sing and read to their babies.
The muscles and bones strengthen, and the baby’s sex organs are also clearly formed by this time. The small baby bump becomes clear. Your gynecologist will recommend a second-trimester ultrasound to ensure the baby is developing normally. The scan will show the detailed images of your baby’s organs.
In the third trimester, brain development speeds up, and the lungs start to mature. Lungs are among the last organs to mature. Between weeks 32 and 36, your baby will get into the head-down position, which is ideal for delivery. Labor can happen anytime after 37 weeks (and before that in some cases).
Your prenatal care in Airoli will start before you plan your pregnancy and last until delivery. Some hospitals offer postpartum counseling as well.