The human fetus. Notice the details in the face and hands. Compare this to the human embryo, and the amount of growth and development is truly remarkable.
From the end of the eighth week until birth, the developing human organism is referred to as a fetus. Birth typically occurs at about 38 weeks after fertilization, so the fetal period generally lasts about 30 weeks. During this time, as outlined in Figure below, the organs complete their development. The fetus also grows rapidly in length and weight.
Fetal Development (Weeks 9–38). Organ development is completed and body size increases dramatically during weeks 9–38.
By the 38th week, the fetus is fully developed and ready to be born (see Figure below). A 38-week fetus normally ranges from 36 to 51 centimeters (14–20 inches) in length and weighs between 2.7 and 4.6 kilograms (about 6–10 pounds).
A 38-week-old fetus has completed development and will soon be born.
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