During which stage of pregnancy does massive cell division occur?

The Germinal Stage is characterized by the initial phase of prenatal development, which occurs in the first two weeks after fertilization. During this stage, after the sperm and egg unite, the zygote begins to undergo rapid cell division, known as cleavage. This process is crucial as it leads to the formation of a blastocyst, which eventually implants itself into the uterine wall. The intense cell division that occurs during the Germinal Stage lays the groundwork for further development.

In contrast, the Fetal Stage occurs later in pregnancy when the organism is referred to as a fetus, and the focus shifts from cell division to the growth and maturation of structures. The Embryonic Stage follows the Germinal Stage and is marked by the development of major organs and body systems, rather than just cell multiplication. Full Term Pregnancy refers to the final stages of development before birth, where the emphasis is on growth and preparation for life outside the womb, rather than the massive cell division that characterizes the Germinal Stage.