Nourishment for the Embryo

The first eight weeks after conception the developing baby is called an embryo. The embryo produces small active cells called “trophoblasts” that are attached to the lining of the uterus. These are the cells which seek out the food for the embryo. They do this growing embryo food. Everything that the mother takes in – food, air, liquid – the embryo gets the share of. This is an important fact to think about. For example, any drugs that you might take will be shared by the embryo. You needs to be very careful because the side effects of many new drugs are uncertain or unknown. Even plain aspirin can be passed on to the embryo and be harmful.

Another thing that is happening in the uterus is the formation of amniotic fluids, which is contained in the “amniotic bag” around the embryo. This amniotic fluid has several purposes:

• It provides a cushion against injury for the embryo.
• It gives the embryo some fluid.
• It keeps the temperature at a constant level.
• It provides a liquid in which the embryo can move about.

After the first eight weeks of gestation, the embryo is called a fetus.

Umbilical cord

As the embryo grows into the form of a baby, an umbilical cord grows from its navel. This long, semi-transparent, jelly-like rope is attached to the placenta and transport nourishment. The umbilical cord is really a continuation of the fetus’ blood vessels. When the baby is born, the cord is cut.

Growth of the fetus

Now that you know how the embryo gets nourishment from the mother, let’s watch it grow through its various stages. You have already noted the changes that take place during the first three or four weeks in the uterus – the time you discover you are pregnant.

But again, this growth pattern is for the average fetus. Just as children grow at different rates once they are born, so too, fetuses develop at different rates. And only slightly more than 10% of the pregnancies end exactly 280 days after the beginning of the last menstrual period. Your own due date will probably occur before or after the projection date, more frequently after your due date.

As the time for delivery approaches, the cervix starts to “ripen.” In other words, it thins out, softens, and may start to dilate. Your labor will be easier if these changes occur before labor. Your progress will be slower if they do not. Because of this, there is no reason to be concerned if your pregnancy extends a week or two past your due date.

The period when the fetus is most vulnerable to birth defects id from 2 to 8 weeks after conception.

Fetal growth is affected by a number of factors including:

• Smoking, which can reduce birth weight.
• Illicit drug use which can slow fetal growth.
• Multiple pregnancy, babies usually smaller.
• Diabetes in mother can result in larger or smaller baby.