Monster Update: Week 09

The Monster is nearly an inch long — barely the size of a grape (pictured) — and weighs just a fraction of an ounce, but it's poised for rapid weight gain now that its basic physical structure is in place. The Monster is also starting to look more and more human. The embryonic "tail" is now completely gone and its body parts — including organs, muscles, and nerves — are kicking into gear.

The Monster's eyelids are fused shut and won't open until 27 weeks. It has earlobes, and by week's end, the inner workings of its ears will be complete. The Monster's upper lip is fully formed, too, and its mouth, nose, and nostrils are more distinct. The tips of its fingers are slightly enlarged where its touch pads are developing. All major joints — shoulders, elbows, wrists, knees, and ankles — are working, enabling the Monster to move its limbs. As for the heart, it has divided into four chambers now, and the valves have started to develop. External sex organs are there, but won't be distinguishable as male or female for another few weeks.

Text adapted from Baby Center.