Monster Update: Week 06

The cells that will make up all of the Monster's body parts and systems are dividing furiously as its body begins to take shape. Right now it's about the size of a small lentil bean (4 to 5 millimeters across). If you could see through Stef's uterine wall, you'd find an overlarge head and dark spots where little Monster eyes and nostrils are beginning to take shape. Shallow pits on the sides of its head mark developing ears, and arms and legs appear as protruding buds. The MOnster's hands and feet look like paddles, with thick webbing between the developing digits, but its fingers and toes will soon become more distinct. Below the opening that will later be the Monster's mouth, there are small folds where its neck and lower jaw will eventually develop. (Inside, a tongue and vocal cords are just beginning to form.)

The Monster's heart (which is starting to divide into the right and left chambers) is beating about 100 to 130 beats per minute — almost twice as fast as yours, slacker — and blood is beginning to circulate through its body. Its intestines are developing and tiny breathing passages are beginning to appear where its lungs will be. The Monster is also starting to build muscle fibers and, halfway through this week, it'll likely start moving its tiny limbs.

Text adapted from Baby Center.