From the first cell.
Through foetal growth.

In conventional fertilisation, a sperm reaches and fuses with the oocyte membrane, triggering changes in the egg. ICSI bypasses this entry step by introducing a sperm directly into the oocyte.

Fertilisation is a process, not an instant guarantee that an embryo will keep developing.

The zygote is the single-cell embryo after fertilisation. Two pronuclei may be visible during the assessment window.

Pronuclei later disappear as the embryo prepares for its first division.

The embryo divides into blastomeres. Early divisions produce more, smaller cells within the zona pellucida.

The cell count alone cannot predict the treatment outcome.

The cells pack together more tightly. Their boundaries become less distinct as a compact morula forms.

Compaction is a developmental change, not fertilisation happening again.

A fluid-filled cavity forms. The inner cell mass and the surrounding trophectoderm become distinguishable as the blastocyst expands.

Appearance and timing inform assessment but do not establish chromosome status.

The blastocyst begins to emerge from the surrounding zona pellucida. The image illustrates partial hatching.

Hatching is not implantation. Transfer or freezing can take place before hatching.

The blastocyst attaches to and progressively embeds in the endometrium. Cells involved in implantation contribute to the developing placental tissues.

This occurs in the uterus, not in the incubator. Transfer does not guarantee implantation.

The foundations of the nervous system, heart, limbs and other organs develop during the embryonic period. The illustration represents a moment around pregnancy week 8.

This is a changing developmental period, not a miniature fully formed newborn. Your team interprets ultrasound findings using the actual pregnancy dates.

The foetal period follows the embryonic period. Growth and maturation continue; the head is still large relative to the body. This illustration represents approximately pregnancy week 12.

The organs are not all mature simply because the term has changed from embryo to foetus.

Body proportions change as growth continues. Mid-pregnancy ultrasound examines anatomy and the placenta as part of antenatal care.

A reassuring scan cannot detect every possible condition. The timing and scope of screening depend on your care plan.

The foetus gains weight while the brain, lungs and other systems continue maturing. The placenta remains important for the exchange of oxygen and nutrients.

This picture is a general illustration, not a size chart. Individual growth is assessed over time by your maternity team.