Pregnancy And Baby Care Articles Fetal Development

...to be normal and is not a cause for concern. The zygote once implanted into the uterine wall becomes a blastocyst which will usually measure about 0.1 -0.2 mm. For the next 38-40 weeks of fetal development, this will be the baby’s home. This blastocyst is typically made up of two unique layers of cells along with a cavity at the center. The outer layers of cells will gradually develop into the placental membranes consisting of the chorion and the amnion whereas the inner layers of cells will develop into the embryo in another 15 days as the fetal development progresses.  The chorionic layer of the blastocyst will then develop into fingerlike tissues known as chorionic villi which help to firmly anchor the blastocyst to the uterine wall and also form the start of the placenta. These chorionic villi tend to start building a network of blood cells and then in time will feed the fetus with nutrients and oxygen via the umbilical cord from the mother during the rest of the pregnancy.

Some of the common symptoms of pregnancy observed in women during week 1 are a reduction in the energy levels with the mother feeling more tired than usual and in some women there may even be fainting due to a drop in the blood pressure. Nausea and vomiting throughout the day or only during the morning may also be observed in some women as fetal development occurs in week 1 of pregnancy. Another symptom of pregnancy in week 1 is frequent urination along with highly sensitive and heavier breasts. Sometimes varicose veins may also be visible on the breasts. During early pregnancy, due to the ongoing hormonal changes, women tend to suffer from mood swings and also get anxious and depressed easily.

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