Chapter 18: Myth—Abortion Doesn’t Matter

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Myth—Abortion Doesn’t Matter

survive outside the woman’s body. Fetal heartbeat can be heard with a stethoscope.

Week 22 — The fetus is about 8 1/4 inches from head to rump and weighs about 1 1/4 pounds. Changes are occurring in lung development so that some babies are able to survive (with intensive care services.)

Week 24 — The fetus is about 9 inches from head to rump and weighs about 2 pounds. The fetus can respond to sound. About 4 out of 10 babies born may now survive (with intensive care services).

Week 26 — The fetus is about 10 inches from head to rump and weighs about 2 1/2 pounds. The eyes are partially open and can perceive light. About 9 out of 10 babies born now will survive (with intensive care services).

Week 28 — The fetus is about 10 1/2 inches from head to rump and weighs almost 3 pounds. The fetus has lungs that are capable of breathing air, although medical help may be needed. The fetus can open and close its

eyes, suck its thumb and respond to sound. Nearly all babies born now will survive (with intensive care services).

Week 30 — The fetus is about 11 inches from head to rump and

weighs more than 3 pounds. Skin is thicker and pinker. Nearly all babies born now will live (with intensive care services).

Week 32 — The fetus is about 11 3/4 inches from head to rump and

weighs about 4 1/2 pounds. Ears begin to hold shape. Almost all babies born now will live (with intensive care services).

Week 34 — The fetus is about 12 1/2 inches from head to rump and

weighs about 5 1/2 pounds. Scalp hair is silky and lies against the head. Almost all babies born now will live.

Week 36 — The fetus is about 13 1/2 inches from head to rump and

weighs about 6 1/2 pounds. Lungs are usually mature. The fetus can grasp firmly. Almost all babies born now will live.