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Germinal Stage
The germinal stage is defined as the earliest development stage of a baby's life. It is in this stage from the moment the egg and sperm join until the start of early development in week three. -
Month 1- Conception and Fertilization
Sperm reaches and fertilizes the egg and is no larger than a single grain of sand. The single cell divides in two over and over again. Fertalized egg latches to uterus and begins nourishment. At 3 weeks, the brain, spinal cord and nervous system begin to develop. Shortly after this the heart begins to beat. At 4 weeks, backbone and muscles develop. At the end of the first month the child is more than 10,000 times it's orginal size. -
Month 2- Development of Features
Fingers can be made out. Pigment in eyes is developed. Brain waves are detected. First movement of baby is seen. At week 8 the baby has all the body parts developed; which will grow as the baby grows. At this stage the baby is just an inch long. -
Embryonic Stage
The embryonic stage is defined as an early stage in a babies development. It is defined as this before it has reached recognizable form. The baby is in this stage from the end of week three or four to the ninth week of the baby's development. -
Month 3- Development of Features, Fetal Stage
Fingerprints become evident. The baby has developed some facial movements. The baby is approximately 2 inches long and has the ability to urinate. Now has the ability ot exercise its muscles (curl fingers, kick legs, etc). -
The Fetal Stage
Once early body systrems are established in the baby, it will continue in the fetal stage. The fetal stage is the last stage in the baby's life and lasts from the eighth or ninth week until the time of birth. -
Month 4- Start of Second Trimester
Doctors can now determine the gender of the baby and movement becomes more frequent. Baby has now reached 8-10 inches in size. Baby's ears can now hear a small variety of sounds. -
Month 5- Further Development
The baby is now 12 inches long and is strong enough for the mother to feel movement. -
Month 6- Further Development
Baby now has enough of their body functioning that if they were to be born, could survive. Oil and sweat glands develop. -
Month 7- Start of Third Trimester
The senses of vision, hearing, taste and touch are now used by the baby. The voice of the mother is now recognizable. -
Month 8- Development of Fats and Antibodies
Antibodies and fats are building in the baby's body. Fat is used for insulation and comfort. -
Month 9- Final Stage of the Third Trimester, Ready to be Born
Baby usually weighs between 6 and 9 pounds. Heart is pumping blood and beating strong. At the end of this month the baby is ready to be born.
