The Germinal Stage (Weeks 1–2): Starts at conception when the sperm fertilizes the egg, creating a single cell called a zygote. It rapidly divides as it travels down the fallopian tube to implant itself into the uterine wall.
The Embryonic Stage (Weeks 3–8): The implanted cell cluster is now an embryo. This is a critical window where major foundational systems form, including the central nervous system (CNS), heart, limbs, and facial features.
The Fetal Stage (Weeks 9–Full Term): The embryo becomes a fetus. The focus shifts to rapid growth, refining organs, and building up fat layers so the baby can survive outside the womb.
2. Prenatal Care: Pillars of a Healthy Pregnancy
Taking care of your body during this time directly supports that developmental timeline.