8 Weeks
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At eight weeks of pregnancy, the embryo starts twitching and moving its limbs uncontrollably [1]. The eyes, ears, wrists, knees, elbows, fingers, and toes are now distinct and noticeable [2]. The fingers and toes are webbed [3].
As the embryo’s gastrointestinal system develops, the intestines temporarily move into the umbilical cord, where there is more space to grow than in the embryo’s tiny abdomen [1]. As the embryo’s circulatory system and heart continue to develop, the heart now beats approximately 150 times per minute [3].
The eyelids, upper lip, and nose are also forming [3]. The embryo will appear to have its eyes open until the eyelids fully develop. The caudal eminence (embryonic tail) is visible.
References:
1. Betts JG, Young KA, Wise JA, Johnson E, Poe B, Kruse DH, et al. 28.2 Embryonic Development. Anatomy & Physiology. Houston: OpenStax; 2013.
2. Moore KL, Persaud TVN, Torchia MG. The Developing Human: Clinically Oriented Embryology. Philadelphia: Elsevier; 2016.
3. Harms R, Wick M, editors. Mayo Clinic Guide to a Healthy Pregnancy. Boston: Da Capo Press; 2011.
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Produced and written by: Samantha Lattof, PhD MSc
Medically reviewed by: Ayodeji Olelakan Abere, MD MBA MHA
Animation by: SciePro / Pond5
Music by: audiomarket / Pond5
Narration by: Ava at Wellsaid