Fetal Development of the Digestive System

First Trimester

Period: Jan 1, 2013 to Mar 31, 2013

GIT Track Formed Weeks 2-3

Jan 16, 2013

Gastrointestinal tract is formed from the endoderm cells.

Three Distinct Gut Portions Formed

Jan 24, 2013

Fore-, mid-, and hind-gut The larger mid-gut is formed by the embryo folding and pinching off an area of the yolk sac.

Buds for all 20 Teeth Emerge

Mar 1, 2013

Digestive System Activity is Evident

Mar 15, 2013

Stomach secretes fluid, and the liver pours bile in to the intestine.

Small Intestine Development

Mar 21, 2013

Small intestines become lined with villi and begin absorbing water and glucose.

Second Trimester

Period: Apr 1, 2013 to Jun 30, 2013

Liver, Stomach, and Intestines are Developing Rapidly

Period: Apr 1, 2013 to Jun 30, 2013

Meconium is Formed (Weeks 13-16)

Apr 14, 2013

Feces of the fetus formed in intestinal tract; kept in the fetus's bowel until after birth.

Large Intestine and Colon Development

Apr 21, 2013

The colon becomes lined with villi; digestive enzymes are apparent now.

Third Trimester

Period: Jul 1, 2013 to Oct 1, 2013

Intstine Activity (6-7 months, 25 weeks)

Jul 15, 2013

The lining of the intestine contains cell types identical to adult cell types

Amniotic Fluid Intake (Month 9, Week 37)

Sep 1, 2013

The fetus takes in small amounts (15oz/day) of amniotic fluid containing sugar to give the digestive system practice in breaking down nutrients. The fetus still receives most of its nutrients through the umbilical and placenta however.