week 16 development

Posted by Dawn
July 8, 2006

Growth continues, but no new structures form after this point.
Eyes are at final destination and face forward rather than to the sides and reflexes, such as blinking, develop. Ears move to final position and stand out from head. It can move its eyes (though there’s not a lot to see in there).
Meconium begins to accumulate in the bowels. Meconium is the product of cell loss, digestive secretion and swallowed amniotic fluid.
Fingertips and toes develop the unique swirls and creases of fingerprints and toe prints. It has preliminary toenails.
The nerves are being coated with a fatty substance system (myelin) to speed nerve cell transmission and insulate them for uninterrupted impulses.
Circulation is completely functional. The umbilical cord system continues to grow and thicken as blood travels with considerable force through the body to nurture the fetus. The placenta is now almost equal in size to the fetus.
The fetus is about 5 1/2 inches long and weighs 3 ounces. It can swallow!

pregnancy

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