Which stage of fetal development occurs after the zygote stage?

The stage of fetal development that occurs after the zygote stage is the embryo stage. Once fertilization occurs, the zygote is formed and begins dividing as it travels down the fallopian tube. This process takes about 3 to 5 days, culminating in a structure known as the blastocyst, which then implants into the uterine wall.

After implantation, the blastocyst develops into the embryo, which is recognized as the developing organism from about the second week until the end of the eighth week of gestation. During this stage, the foundations for all major organs and systems are established, making it a critical period in prenatal development.

The subsequent stages like the fetus refer to the later development phases happening after the embryonic stage, which begins from the ninth week until birth. The placenta, while essential for providing nutrition and support to the developing embryo and later the fetus, is not a stage of development but rather an organ that facilitates these functions. Thus, the embryo stage directly follows the zygote stage and is integral to the development of the human body.