The Blastocyst Stage of Embryonic Development: Critical for Implantation and Growth

Blastocyst is the stage in the development of an embryo that occurs about 5-6 days after fertilization. At this stage, the embryo has developed into a fluid-filled cavity with a group of cells called the inner cell mass (ICM) that will eventually form the fetus. The outer layer of cells, known as the trophectoderm, will eventually form the placenta and other supporting tissues.
The blastocyst is a critical stage in the development of the embryo, as it is at this point that the embryo implants itself into the uterine lining and begins to receive nutrients from the mother's bloodstream. The blastocyst stage typically lasts for about 4-5 days before the embryo begins to differentiate into the various tissues and organs of the body.
In vitro fertilization (IVF) procedures often involve the transfer of embryos at the blastocyst stage, as this is when the embryos are most likely to implant successfully in the uterus.