A “Fetus” or a Baby?

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At nine weeks of life, a baby can move her fingers and toes, make breathing movements, and even has taste buds forming. At this stage the baby is considered a “fetus.” All this means is that the baby’s major organ systems are now in place, but calling the baby a “fetus” has had deadly results.

Many people see a fetus as less human than a baby. But all a “fetus” refers to is a specific time in development, just like the term toddler or teenager.

A “fetus” isn’t any less human than a newborn—it’s the same baby, just a different stage of development.

Age doesn’t determine personhood. God does, and he’s said each person is fearfully and wonderfully made and in his image.

Dig Deeper

• “Fetus” Stage: Week 9 in the Life of an Unborn Baby
• Prenatal Development: Life of an Unborn Baby