1.Germinal Stage

        The initial and shortest stage of fetal development is called the germinal stage. When a sperm

fertilizes an egg, a single cell known as a zygote is created, marking the beginning of the

process. This zygote travels down the fallopian tube to the uterus over about a week. As it

moves, it divides multiple times, eventually forming a structure called a blastocyst. This

blastocyst consists of two parts: one part will develop into the embryo and later the fetus, while

the other part becomes the placenta, which provides nutrients to the growing baby. By the end

of this stage, the blastocyst implants itself into the uterine lining, marking the start of pregnancy.

2.Embryonic Stage

        Next is the embryonic stage, which lasts from about the third week until the end of the eighth

week of pregnancy. During this period, the blastocyst develops into an embryo. This is a critical

time when the baby's major organs and systems begin to form. By the fifth week, the heart

starts to beat and structures for the brain, spinal cord and limbs begin to develop. By the end of

the eighth week, the embryo has taken on distinct human features, including the beginnings of

arms, legs and facial features. This stage is often accompanied by early pregnancy symptoms,

such as morning sickness.

3.Fetal Stage

The fetal stage begins around the ninth week and lasts until birth. At this point, the embryo is

officially referred to as a fetus. The fetal stage is marked by rapid growth and development. The

fetus develops its sex, although it may not be visible on an ultrasound yet. Major organs

continue to mature and by the end of the third month, the fetus has recognizable features, such

as fingers and toes.

During the second trimester, many people find this stage more comfortable, as morning

sickness often decreases. This is also when the mother can typically feel the baby moving for

the first time, often described as a flutter. The fetus is roughly 9 to 10 inches long at the end of

the fifth month.

The third trimester is the final phase of pregnancy, where the fetus grows rapidly, gaining weight

and developing fat reserves. The lungs mature in preparation for breathing outside the womb, and the baby begins to respond to sounds and light. By the end of the ninth month, the fetus is

usually in a head-down position, preparing for birth.

4.Important Considerations

Each stage of fetal development has its own unique milestones. The first trimester is crucial

because most of the baby’s major organs and systems form during this time. After 12 weeks,

the risk of miscarriage decreases significantly and many people start to feel relief from early

pregnancy symptoms.

Pregnancy is typically counted in weeks and healthcare providers often use the first day of the

last menstrual period to determine how far along the pregnancy is. This is important for setting a

due date and monitoring the baby’s growth