Pregnancy Timeline

  • germinal stage (0-2 Weeks)

    The germinal stage begins at conception when the sperm and egg cell unite in one of the two fallopian tubes. The fertilized egg, known as a zygote then moves toward the uterus, a journey that can take up to a week to complete. Cell division begins approximately 24 to 36 hours after conception.
  • embryonic stage (3-8 weeks)

    At this point, the mass of cells is now known as an embryo. The beginning of the third week after conception marks the start of the embryonic period, a time when the mass of cells becomes distinct as a human. The embryonic stage plays an important role in the development of the brain.
  • fetal stage (9-birth)

    Once cell differentiation is mostly complete, the embryo enters the next stage and becomes known as a fetus. The fetal period of prenatal develop marks more important changes in the brain. This period of develop begins during the ninth week and lasts until birth.
    The early body systems and structures established in the embryonic stage continue to develop.
  • Brain Development

    The earliest signs of development of the neural tube are the emergence of two ridges that form along each side of the neural place. Over the next few days, more ridges form and fold inward until a hollow tube is formed. Once this tube is fully formed, the cells begin to form near the center. The tube begins to close and brain vesicles form. These vesicles will eventually develop into parts of the brain including the structures of the forebrain, midbrain, and hindbrain
  • Factors that improve child development

    Eating the proper foods and taking vitamins
    Stay away from alcohol/drugs
    Lessen the risk of being exposed to chemicals or radiation