The development of your baby’s brain starts much earlier than you might expect—often before you even know you’re pregnant. Understanding how this crucial process unfolds can provide insights into fetal health and development.
When Does a Fetus Develop a Brain?
Fetal brain development kicks off around five weeks into your pregnancy. This is when the first neural cells start to divide and differentiate into neurons and glial cells, which are essential components of the nervous system. By week five, the neural plate folds to create the neural tube, which closes by week six and will eventually evolve into the brain and spinal cord. By approximately week ten, the brain takes on a more recognizable form, although the folds and regions that characterize a mature brain will develop later in pregnancy.
When Does a Fetus Have Brain Activity?
Remarkably, the first synapses in your baby’s spinal cord form as early as week seven. By week eight, electrical activity commences in the brain, enabling your baby to begin responding to stimuli.
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In summary, fetal brain development is a remarkable process that begins as early as five weeks into pregnancy. Understanding this timeline can help you appreciate the early stages of your baby’s growth and the importance of a healthy environment during this critical time.