How are fingerprints formed in the womb?

Dr. Michael Roizen, MD

Internal Medicine

Innumerable environmental factors influence the formation of fingerprints, including the exact position of the fetus in the womb at a particular moment and the exact composition and density of surrounding amniotic fluid that's swirling around the fingers as they touch surrounding structures. And that's what decides how every individual ridge will form. The entire development process is so chaotic that, in the entire course of human history, there is virtually no chance of the same exact pattern forming twice.

More About this Book

YOU: Having a Baby: The Owner's Manual to a Happy and Healthy Pregnancy

Can I get a cavity filled while pregnant? Will avoiding spicy foods make my kid a picky eater? Can I really increase my baby's IQ while she's in utero? Whether you're pregnant for the first time,...

Continue Learning about Fetal Development Basics & Pregnancy

What determines the sex of a baby? In humans’ the sex of the baby is determined by the sperm. Learn ...

A fetus develops plenty of reflexes, and all of these reflexes depend on the central nervous system....

Fetal movement counting in pregnancy is an important way to monitor your baby's health. Learn more f...

That ability starts at about 30 weeks; before that time, tissues plug up the nasal cavities.

Important: This content reflects information from various individuals and organizations and may offer alternative or opposing points of view. It should not be used for medical advice, diagnosis or treatment. As always, you should consult with your healthcare provider about your specific health needs.

Fetal Development Basics & Pregnancy

At 4 weeks, the cells of the fetus are specializing into a nervous system, hair, organs, and skin. At 12 weeks, the fetus is around 2 _ inches in size and makes movement on its own. At 20 weeks, the nervous systems functions, sex can be determined, and you will feel your baby move. At 28 weeks, the fetus weighs over 2 pounds and if born prematurely, would most likely be able to survive. At 32 weeks, the baby weighs 4 pounds and fat layers begin to develop under its skin. At 36 weeks, the lungs are almost fully developed and brain function is developing rapidly. At 37 weeks, a term pregnancy can be made.

Learn More

Features:

Condition Headquarters:

How are fingerprints formed in the womb?

Continue Learning about Fetal Development Basics & Pregnancy