Legal Definitions - fetus

A fetus refers to an unborn mammal that is in an advanced stage of development within its mother's womb. This stage typically begins after the embryonic period, once the major organ systems have largely formed, and continues until birth.

Here are some examples to illustrate the term:

• During a routine ultrasound appointment in her second trimester, a pregnant woman received images of her developing baby, which the doctor referred to as a fetus. The images clearly showed its heart beating, limbs moving, and facial features becoming distinct.

  This example illustrates the term because it describes an unborn human in a later stage of development, where significant anatomical features are visible and functioning, consistent with the definition of a fetus.

• A state legislature debated a bill concerning prenatal care, where lawmakers discussed the legal status and protections afforded to a fetus. The discussion centered on when an unborn human reaches a stage of development where it might be considered to have certain legal interests separate from the mother.

  Here, "fetus" is used in a legal context to denote an unborn human at a point in development where its status becomes a subject of legal consideration, highlighting the term's relevance in policy and law.

• Veterinarians performing an ultrasound on a pregnant mare identified two distinct fetuses, indicating a twin pregnancy. They monitored the development of these unborn foals to ensure both were growing properly before birth.

  This example demonstrates that "fetus" applies to any unborn mammal, not just humans. The unborn foals are in a developed stage within the mare, aligning with the definition.