Source: bing.comThe development of a baby’s external genitalia is a fascinating journey. However, it can be overwhelming for new parents to understand the timeline of external genitalia development. The external genitalia of a baby is not only important for their physical appearance but also for their overall health. Therefore, in this article, we will explore when do babies external genitalia develop.
Table of Contents
Development of Male External Genitalia
During the first few weeks of pregnancy, the embryo develops both male and female genitalia. However, by the ninth week, the fetus’ sex is determined by the presence of either an X or Y chromosome. If the fetus has a Y chromosome, the testes will begin to produce testosterone which leads to the development of male genitalia.
By the twelfth week, the penis and scrotum begin to form. The urethra, the tube that carries urine and semen, forms inside the penis. By the sixteenth week, the testes begin to descend from the abdomen into the scrotum. By the time the baby is born, the testes are usually in the scrotum.
Development of Female External Genitalia
At around the seventh week of pregnancy, the genital tubercle begins to form. In a female fetus, the genital tubercle will eventually turn into the clitoris. By the twelfth week, the labia minora and labia majora start to form. The labia minora are the inner folds while the labia majora are the outer folds.
By the time the baby is born, the external genitalia of a female baby is usually fully formed. However, it is common for the labia to appear swollen due to hormones passed on from the mother. This swelling usually subsides within a few weeks.
Abnormalities in External Genitalia Development
Sometimes, the development of external genitalia may not occur as expected. In some cases, a baby may be born with ambiguous genitalia, which means that it is difficult to determine their sex. This can occur due to a genetic condition, hormone imbalance, or exposure to certain medications or chemicals during pregnancy.
In some cases, surgery may be needed to correct abnormalities in external genitalia development. It is important to consult a pediatrician if you notice any abnormalities in your baby’s genitalia.
Conclusion
In conclusion, the development of external genitalia in babies is a complex process that occurs during pregnancy. The male and female external genitalia develop at different rates, but they are usually fully formed by the time the baby is born. However, it is important to consult a pediatrician if you notice any abnormalities in your baby’s genitalia.
If you have any questions or concerns about your baby’s external genitalia development, don’t hesitate to consult a healthcare professional. Remember, every baby is unique, and their development can vary.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Can you determine a baby’s sex during pregnancy?
A: Yes, a baby’s sex can be determined through ultrasound as early as 18-20 weeks of pregnancy.
Q: Can external genitalia development be affected by the mother’s diet during pregnancy?
A: There is no evidence to suggest that the mother’s diet during pregnancy affects the development of external genitalia.
Q: Is it normal for a female baby’s labia to be swollen after birth?
A: Yes, it is common for a female baby’s labia to be swollen due to hormones passed on from the mother. This swelling usually subsides within a few weeks.
Q: What is ambiguous genitalia?
A: Ambiguous genitalia is a condition where the external genitalia of a baby are not clearly male or female. This can occur due to a genetic condition, hormone imbalance, or exposure to certain medications or chemicals during pregnancy.
Q: When should I consult a pediatrician regarding my baby’s external genitalia development?
A: It is important to consult a pediatrician if you notice any abnormalities in your baby’s genitalia.