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Fetal Development of the Digestive System

By zriola
  • Period: to

    First Trimester

  • GIT Track Formed Weeks 2-3

    GIT Track Formed Weeks 2-3

    Gastrointestinal tract is formed from the endoderm cells.
  • Three Distinct Gut Portions Formed

    Three Distinct Gut Portions Formed

    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

    Buds for all 20 Teeth Emerge

  • Digestive System Activity is Evident

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

  • Small Intestine Development

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

  • Period: to

    Liver, Stomach, and Intestines are Developing Rapidly

  • Meconium is Formed (Weeks 13-16)

    Meconium is Formed (Weeks 13-16)

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

  • Large Intestine and Colon Development

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

  • Intstine Activity (6-7 months, 25 weeks)

    Intstine Activity (6-7 months, 25 weeks)

    The lining of the intestine contains cell types identical to adult cell types
  • Amniotic Fluid Intake (Month 9, Week 37)

    Amniotic Fluid Intake (Month 9, Week 37)

    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.