Abstract

DEVELOPMENT OF FETUS

Hariom Rajput* and Teena Rajput

ABSTRACT

In Fetal size and fetal growth trajectories are important indicators of fetal health. This article reviews fetal growth from an obstetric perspective and addresses various issues including the physiologic mechanisms that determine fetal growth trajectories, known risk factors for abnormal fetal growth, diagnostic and prognostic issues related to restricted and excessive growth and temporal trends in fetal growth. The perinatal literature contains several potentially confusing terms and concepts related to fetal size and growth. These include distinctions between fetal growth ‘standards’ and fetal growth ‘references’, and between fetal growth charts based on estimated fetal weight vs those based on birth weight. There is also a lack of clarity around fundamental concepts such as the incidence of fetal growth restriction in pregnancy: does the frequency of fetal growth restriction increase or decrease as gestation advances (or is it a constant 3 or 10% for each gestational week)? The demonstrated associations between in-utero growth and adult chronic illnesses (such as coronary heart disease) are another potential source of confusion in obstetrics: should pregnancy interventions be predicated on improving such long-term outcomes? Finally, there is the seductive proposition regarding the need for customizing fetal growth standards. Should fetal size and growth be assessed in the context of fetal gender alone or should other physiologic parameters such as maternal height, weight, parity and ethnicity/race provide additional context? This review attempts to clarify these issues by providing a brief synthesis of the prevailing perspectives. the review the development of a fetus is a marvel of nature, encompassing a series of intricate processes that transform a single cell into a fully formed human being. This journey, spanning approximately 40 weeks, is divided into three distinct stages: the germinal stage, the embryonic stage, and the fetal stage. The germinal stage, spanning the first two weeks after conception, marks the beginning of life. It starts with the fusion of a sperm and an egg,  resulting in the formation of a zygote. This zygote undergoes rapid cell division, forming a blastocyst, which implants itself into the uterine wall. During this stage, the placenta begins to develop, providing the fetus with essential nutrients and oxygen.[2] The embryonic stage, spanning weeks 3 to 8, is characterized by rapid growth and development. Major organs and structures, including the heart, brain, spinal cord, and limbs, begin to form. By the end of this stage, the embryo has a beating heart and rudimentary facial features, setting the stage for further development.[15] The fetal stage, spanning weeks 9 to birth, is a period of refinement and growth. The fetus continues to develop, with organs and structures maturing further. It begins to move, and its senses start to develop. By the end of this stage, the fetus is capable of survival outside the womb, although it will continue to grow and develop after birth.[3] Throughout fetal development, the fetus is vulnerable to environmental factors such as nutrition, exposure to toxins, and maternal health.[8] Therefore, it is crucial for pregnant individuals to receive regular prenatal care to ensure the health and well-being of the fetus.

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