Fetus development and size

The stage of prebirth development from nine weeks of gestation to birth. The organ systems and major structures take form during the EMBRYO stage, which encompasses the second to the eighth weeks of gestation. During the fetal stage, which is 32 weeks in a full-term PREGNANCY, the systems, organs, and structures grow and develop further sophistication in preparation for independent life. The fetus reaches viability (possibility of surviving on its own) at around 24 weeks of gestation.

HIGHLIGHTS OF FETAL GROWTH
Fetal Age (Gestational Weeks)Fetal SizeKey Developments
14 3 inches in length face clearly formed
LIVER produces erythrocytes
18 6 inches in length lanugo (fine HAIR) on head
movement may be detectable
sucking
gastrointestinal tract produces meconium
24 11 inches in length
one pound in weight		 viability possible with intensive medical care
movement apparent
eyebrows and eyelashes
fingerprints and footprints
heartbeat detectable with stethoscope
gender detectable with ULTRASOUND
startle REFLEX
28 15 inches in length
two to three pounds in weight		 viability possible
eyelids open and close
increasing level of BRAIN and NERVOUS SYSTEM functions
alveoli in LUNGS
32 17 inches in length
four pounds in weight		 viability probable
body fat
BREATHING movements in lungs
36 19 inches in length
five to six pounds in weight		 viability likely
fingernails completely cover fingertips
head hair replaces lanugo on head
40 20 to 21 inches in length
seven to eight pounds in weight		 viable, full term
body lanugo disappears
lungs mature

See also ABORTION; CHILDBIRTH; CONCEPTION; FETAL ALCOHOL SYNDROME; PRENATAL CARE; STILLBIRTH.

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The Reproductive System

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