Prenatal development

Prenatal development is the biological process by which a single fertilized egg cell transforms into a fully formed human baby over approximately nine months in the mother's womb. During this remarkable journey, the embryo undergoes dramatic changes—from forming basic body structures like the heart and brain in the earliest weeks, to developing organs, bones, and muscles that allow the fetus to grow and move. Scientists study prenatal development to understand how life begins, identify potential health issues early, and improve care for both mother and baby.