Period of the Embryo

The Period of the Embryo follows the Period of the Ovum. The Embryonic period begins after 2-8 weeks following conception. During this time the TROPHOBLAST begins to send messages to the body that this foreign body is supposed to be here and do not send antibodies to attack it all though this does not always happens .

• 4 weeks- The embryo is ½ inch in length. A primitive heart is beating. The head and tail are established. The mouth, liver and intestines begin to take shape.
• 8 weeks-the embryo's facial features, limbs, hands, feet, fingers, and toes develop. The nervous system is becoming more responsive and many internal functions begin to function.