Development of Human Foetus (1)

The process of fertilization

This process occurs when the sperm nucleus fuses with the ovum nucleus and forms a diploid zygote (2n)

The zygote goes through the process of mitosis

While travelling down the fallopian tube to the uterus, the zygote undergoes multiple divisions

Embryonic cell division

The first cell division produces a two-cell embryo. The following cell divisions will finally produce a morula.

Morula

A morula is a ball of cells that is formed when a zygote goes through the process of mitosis and will develop into an embryo

Process of implantation

Blastocyst attaches to the endometrium and continue to develop into embryos

Blastocyst

A mass of cells that grow from the morula and attach to the endometrium during the implantation process

HCG

Abbreviation for human chorionic gonadotrophin hormone

The function of HCG in foetus development

To ensure that the corpus luteum continues to secrete oestrogen and progesterone in the early stages of pregnancy.

Placenta

Placenta is formed from the mother’s endometrial tissue

Umbilical cord

Tube that contains the umbilical vein and umbilical arteries