Pregnancy is a great experience that brings joy and happiness to families. The journey of parenthood starts with the growth and development of the baby in the mother’s womb. The development of a baby in the womb is a complex process that occurs in three stages of prenatal development. In this blog post, we will discuss the three stages of prenatal development and what the baby is called in each stage.
Table of Contents
Stage 1 – Germinal Stage
The first stage of prenatal development is the germinal stage, which lasts from conception to about two weeks. During this stage, the fertilized egg travels through the fallopian tube and implants itself in the lining of the uterus. The fertilized egg is called a zygote at this stage. The zygote divides and becomes a blastocyst, a ball of cells that will eventually form the embryo and placenta.
Stage 2 – Embryonic Stage
The embryonic stage is the second stage of prenatal development, which lasts from two weeks to eight weeks. During this stage, the cells divide and differentiate into the different organs and tissues of the body. The embryo is about the size of a grape at the end of this stage and is called an embryo. The major organs and structures of the body are formed during this stage, and the embryo is most vulnerable to damage from external factors such as drugs and alcohol.
Stage 3 – Fetal Stage
The fetal stage is the final stage of prenatal development, which lasts from eight weeks until birth. During this stage, the baby grows and develops rapidly. The baby is called a fetus at this stage. The fetus grows to about 20 inches in length and weighs around seven pounds at birth. The fetus gains weight and develops its senses during this stage, and the mother can feel the baby’s movements.
In conclusion, the three stages of prenatal development are the germinal stage, the embryonic stage, and the fetal stage. The baby is called a zygote in the germinal stage, an embryo in the embryonic stage, and a fetus in the fetal stage. Each stage is crucial for the development of the baby, and the mother’s health during pregnancy plays a vital role in ensuring a healthy baby.
Frequently ask and question:
Q: What is the most critical stage of prenatal development?
A: The embryonic stage is the most critical stage of prenatal development because the major organs and structures of the body are formed during this stage.
Q: What are some factors that can affect prenatal development?
A: Some factors that can affect prenatal development include the mother’s health, nutrition, exposure to toxins, and use of drugs and alcohol.
Q: How can a mother ensure a healthy pregnancy?
A: A mother can ensure a healthy pregnancy by eating a balanced diet, getting regular prenatal care, avoiding toxins and drugs, and managing stress.
Q: When can a mother feel the baby’s movements?
A: A mother can feel the baby’s movements during the fetal stage, which begins at eight weeks and ends at birth.
Q: What is the average length and weight of a baby at birth?
A: The average length of a baby at birth is about 20 inches, and the average weight is around seven pounds.