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Fetus – Development, Nutrition and Prenatal Care
The fetus is the unborn child from the 9th week of pregnancy until birth. During this phase, all organs and bodily functions develop and mature.
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The fetus is the unborn child from the 9th week of pregnancy until birth. During this phase, all organs and bodily functions develop and mature.
What is a Fetus?
The term fetus (also spelled foetus) refers to the unborn child in the womb from the 9th week of pregnancy until birth. Prior to this stage, from fertilization through the 8th week, the developing child is called an embryo. By the time the fetal period begins, all basic organ structures are already present, and the focus shifts to growth and maturation of these organs and body systems.
Stages of Fetal Development
The fetal period spans the majority of pregnancy and is characterized by rapid body growth and progressive organ maturation.
First Trimester (up to week 12)
In the early fetal phase, facial features, fingers, and toes become recognizable. Internal organs such as the heart, liver, and kidneys begin to function. By the end of the first trimester, the fetus measures approximately 6–8 cm in length.
Second Trimester (weeks 13–28)
During this phase, muscles and bones develop rapidly. The fetus begins to move, and the expectant mother starts to feel fetal movements. The sense of hearing develops, allowing the fetus to respond to sounds. By the end of the second trimester, the fetus is approximately 35 cm long.
Third Trimester (week 29 to birth)
In the third trimester, the lungs and brain continue to mature significantly. The fetus gains considerable weight and typically moves into a head-down position in preparation for birth. At full term, a fetus weighs on average 3,000–3,500 g and measures approximately 50 cm in length.
Fetal Nutrition and Support
The fetus receives oxygen and nutrients through the placenta and the umbilical cord. The placenta also removes metabolic waste products and acts as a protective barrier against many pathogens. However, certain substances -- including some medications, alcohol, nicotine, and other harmful compounds -- can cross the placental barrier and damage the developing child.
Protective Factors and Risk Factors
The health of the fetus depends greatly on the health and lifestyle of the mother. The following factors can negatively affect fetal development:
- Alcohol: Can lead to fetal alcohol spectrum disorders (FASD)
- Nicotine and smoking: Increases the risk of growth restriction and preterm birth
- Infectious diseases: Certain pathogens such as rubella, toxoplasma, or cytomegalovirus can cause serious harm to the fetus
- Medications: Some drugs are contraindicated during pregnancy
- Nutritional deficiencies: Inadequate intake of essential nutrients such as folic acid, iron, or iodine can impair fetal development
Diagnostic Monitoring During the Fetal Period
Fetal development is monitored through regular prenatal check-ups. The most important examinations include:
- Ultrasound (sonography): Assessment of fetal growth, position, and organ development
- CTG (cardiotocography): Monitoring of the fetal heart rate
- Prenatal diagnostics: Tests such as amniocentesis or first-trimester screening to detect chromosomal abnormalities
References
- Moore, K.L., Persaud, T.V.N., Torchia, M.G.: The Developing Human: Clinically Oriented Embryology. 11th edition. Elsevier, 2019.
- World Health Organization (WHO): Recommendations on antenatal care for a positive pregnancy experience. WHO, 2016. Available at: https://www.who.int
- Sadler, T.W.: Langman's Medical Embryology. 14th edition. Wolters Kluwer, 2018.
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