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By week 8 of your pregnancy, you have four more weeks until the end of your first trimester. Even though you might not be showing yet, you might notice your clothes feeling a tad snugger. And if you’re one of the 70 to 80% percent of women experiencing morning sickness, you definitely will feel pregnant.
Your little one is also on a growth spurt, adding about a millimetre to their daily size. If you haven’t had your first prenatal visit yet, chances are it’s just around the corner this week.
Take a Peak
Your baby’s genitals are developing, but it is too early to detect the sex of the baby.
All the vital organs and systems started developing at the end of this week.
All the vital organs and systems have started developing at the end of this week.
Take a Peek
Your baby’s genitals are developing, but it is too early to detect the sex of the baby.
All the vital organs and systems started developing at the end of this week.
All the vital organs and systems have started developing at the end of this week.
Baby Development at Week 8
Your little one is now approximately 0.63 inches long, resembling the size of a raspberry. Amazingly, by next week, they’ll double in size. At this stage, their tiny head begins to straighten out a bit.
Their arms are elongating and larger than their legs, as the upper part of their body is growing more rapidly. Although their legs extend, the knees, ankles, thighs, and toes have yet to form. Around this time, your embryo becomes a “foetus,” a term derived from Latin meaning “offspring.”
This week, your baby resembles more and more like the newborn you’ll soon cradle in your arms, and the embryonic tail is nearly gone. Their facial features are becoming more defined, alongside the development of their inner organs. The upper jaw and nose are taking shape, giving a glimpse of their future appearance. Although you may not feel it, your little one is constantly in motion. (6)-
Your baby’s eyes become more prominent as pigment forms in the retina and the back of the eye. The intestines are elongating, but there isn’t enough space in the baby’s abdomen. As a result, they temporarily extend into the umbilical cord until around week 12.
The initial buds that will eventually evolve into your baby’s genitals have emerged. However, they haven’t developed enough to determine the gender of your baby yet. It’s a fascinating time as your baby grows and develops inside the womb.
Fetal Growth
WEEK 8:
Your baby is as big as a raspberry
LENGTH
WEIGHT
0.63
1.134
Inches
grams
From head to heel
Fetal Growth
WEEK 8:
Your baby is as big as a raspberry
LENGTH
WEIGHT
0.63
1.134
Inches
grams
From head to heel
Body Changes at Week 8
Your body has undergone numerous changes since becoming pregnant. Previously, your uterus was roughly the size of your fist, but now it’s grown to about the size of a grapefruit to accommodate your growing baby.
You might have also observed changes in your breasts, which may feel more tender and sensitive. This adjustment is perfectly normal as your body readies itself for lactation. Additionally, your blood volume has increased by 40 to 50 per cent, a change you might not have noticed but is crucial for supporting you and your baby during pregnancy.
Your body is buzzing with hormones working hard to support your baby’s growth. Around this time, nausea tends to peak, making you feel quite sick. Emotionally, you might find yourself on a rollercoaster, swinging between moments of happiness, irritability, or sudden bursts of energy.
These emotional fluctuations are normal during pregnancy, so don’t hesitate to seek support if you feel overwhelmed. Whether it’s from your partner, a family member, or a licensed healthcare provider, your mental well-being is crucial and deserves attention. Remember, you’re not alone, and reaching out for help is a sign of strength, not weakness.
Pregnancy Symptoms at Week 8
Despite its name, morning sickness can affect you throughout the day during pregnancy. However, there’s hope, as it often improves as your pregnancy progresses. This nausea is triggered by increasing hormone levels, typically improving around week 10 of pregnancy.
If your morning sickness becomes unusually severe, it’s essential to inform your doctor, as it could be a sign of hyperemesis gravidarum, especially if you struggle to keep fluids down, have dark yellow urine, or experience reduced urination.
The hormones responsible for nurturing your growing baby also prepare your breasts for breastfeeding. As a result, your breasts are increasing in size, and more blood is circulating to them, which can cause discomfort. If you wear a bra, you might find your old ones no longer fit comfortably.
Investing in comfortable bras that accommodate your changing breasts can alleviate pain and tenderness. Additionally, applying body lotion or oil to the stretching skin may help make it feel more comfortable.
If you’re experiencing a metallic taste in your mouth during pregnancy, you’re not alone. This symptom, known as dysgeusia, is quite common and can be described as a sensation akin to having coins in your mouth or tasting metal.
It’s believed to be caused by hormonal changes, particularly increased oestrogen levels, which can alter your sense of taste. While it might be unpleasant, rest assured that it’s usually temporary and tends to improve as your pregnancy progresses. If you find it bothersome, you can try rinsing your mouth with water frequently or sucking on citrus fruits to alleviate the taste.
During pregnancy, headaches are common due to increased blood flow and fatigue. Always consult your healthcare provider before taking any pain medication. Natural remedies like massage, compresses, relaxation techniques, exercise, and showers can help alleviate headache discomfort without medication.
During pregnancy, changing hormone levels, discomfort, and frequent trips to the bathroom can disrupt sleep. To improve your sleep quality, consider listening to peaceful music or reading a book if you feel wide awake. Additionally, drinking warm milk, showering, or bathing before bed can promote relaxation.
Experiencing mild pelvic cramping at 8 weeks pregnant is relatively common and is usually considered normal. This cramping can occur as the uterus expands and the ligaments stretch to accommodate the growing baby.
Hormonal changes, particularly a rise in progesterone levels, can trigger bloating similar to what one might experience before period. These hormonal shifts impact digestion and fluid retention, resulting in abdominal discomfort and bloating during early pregnancy. While typically mild and common, strategies such as staying hydrated, consuming small, frequent meals, and incorporating light physical activity can help alleviate bloating discomfort.
You may notice small bumps on your areolas, known as Montgomery tubercles. These bumps are a normal part of breast changes during pregnancy and are caused by hormonal fluctuations. Montgomery tubercles serve various purposes, including lubricating the nipples and protecting against infection.
While their presence is typically considered normal and not a cause for concern. If you have any concerns or notice any unusual changes in your breasts, it’s always a good idea to consult with your healthcare provider for reassurance and guidance.
As your pregnancy progresses, your progesterone levels rise, leaving you more tired than usual. This increased tiredness is a common symptom experienced by many pregnant women. It’s essential to listen to your body and prioritise rest whenever possible. If you’re exhausted, take it easy and avoid overexerting yourself.
You’re not alone if you notice stronger smells than usual during pregnancy. Many expectant mothers experience a heightened sense of smell, which can intensify certain odours and even lead to feelings of nausea. This sensitivity is thought to be connected to hormonal changes in your body.
Pregnancy Symptoms at Week 9
Despite its name, morning sickness can affect you throughout the day during pregnancy. However, there’s hope, as it often improves as your pregnancy progresses. This nausea is triggered by increasing hormone levels, typically improving around week 10 of pregnancy.
If your morning sickness becomes unusually severe, it’s essential to inform your doctor, as it could be a sign of hyperemesis gravidarum, especially if you struggle to keep fluids down, have dark yellow urine, or experience reduced urination.
The hormones responsible for nurturing your growing baby also prepare your breasts for breastfeeding. As a result, your breasts are increasing in size, and more blood is circulating to them, which can cause discomfort. If you wear a bra, you might find your old ones no longer fit comfortably.
Investing in comfortable bras that accommodate your changing breasts can alleviate pain and tenderness. Additionally, applying body lotion or oil to the stretching skin may help make it feel more comfortable.
If you’re experiencing a metallic taste in your mouth during pregnancy, you’re not alone. This symptom, known as dysgeusia, is quite common and can be described as a sensation akin to having coins in your mouth or tasting metal.
It’s believed to be caused by hormonal changes, particularly increased oestrogen levels, which can alter your sense of taste. While it might be unpleasant, rest assured that it’s usually temporary and tends to improve as your pregnancy progresses. If you find it bothersome, you can try rinsing your mouth with water frequently or sucking on citrus fruits to alleviate the taste.
During pregnancy, headaches are common due to increased blood flow and fatigue. Always consult your healthcare provider before taking any pain medication. Natural remedies like massage, compresses, relaxation techniques, exercise, and showers can help alleviate headache discomfort without medication.
Tiny muscles are beginning to form this week, but you won’t be able to feel those small punches for at least another month.
Despite its name, morning sickness can affect you throughout the day during pregnancy. However, there’s hope, as it often improves as your pregnancy progresses. This nausea is triggered by increasing hormone levels, typically improving around week 10 of pregnancy.
If your morning sickness becomes unusually severe, it’s essential to inform your doctor, as it could be a sign of hyperemesis gravidarum, especially if you struggle to keep fluids down, have dark yellow urine, or experience reduced urination.
At your baby’s rump, the embryonic tail at the bottom of the spinal cord has almost vanished! He’s starting to look more like a miniature human.
Tiny muscles are beginning to form this week, but you won’t be able to feel those small punches for at least another month.
Excessive bleeding and abdominal pain are some of the symptoms of miscarriage. So, if you experience any of these symptoms, your healthcare provider should be notified immediately. Also, avoid taking medications carelessly. Some medications can induce an abortion.
At this stage, an ectopic pregnancy is now much more dangerous. An ectopic is when the baby is developing properly but is in the wrong position. One major site of an ectopic pregnancy is the fallopian tube. The baby’s growth will lead to complications because of how small the fallopian tube is. Continuous foetal development in the tiny fallopian tube will lead to a rupture eventually.
Most ectopic pregnancies might progress without any symptoms. This is what makes it a silent and very dangerous killer.
The possibility of having a urinary tract infection increases after the sixth week. Experiencing a burning sensation while urinating is a significant symptom, particularly when accompanied by lower abdominal pain. If you notice these symptoms, it’s important to consult your healthcare provider for proper evaluation and treatment. Do not attempt to hold in urine whenever you feel pressed. This increases your chances of coming down with a UTI.
Hyperemesis gravidarum is a severe form of morning sickness characterised by persistent nausea and vomiting during pregnancy. While morning sickness is common and typically improves after the first trimester, hyperemesis gravidarum can persist throughout pregnancy and may require medical intervention.
This condition can be related to molar pregnancies or multiple pregnancies. In a molar pregnancy, there is an abnormal growth of tissue in the uterus instead of a viable foetus. Despite the absence of a baby, pregnancy symptoms, including severe nausea and vomiting, may still be heightened.
Similarly, multiple pregnancies, such as twins or triplets, can exacerbate symptoms of hyperemesis gravidarum due to increased hormonal changes and demands on the body.
Health Tips for Week 8
Most women will have their first prenatal visit between weeks seven and 8. You’ll have your first ultrasound scan at the prenatal clinic during this appointment. You’ll also be asked about your past pregnancies and their outcomes.
Your healthcare provider will also collect blood and urine samples for various tests. Your blood pressure will be measured, and your height and weight will be taken to calculate your Body Mass Index (BMI) using these figures.
You must take your vitamins and supplements. Also, other medications prescribed by your caregiver should be adhered to strictly. Medications or supplements such as folic acid, calcium, and vitamin D are very important. An absence or reduced amount of folic acid in the body may cause a baby to have some birth deformities.
Your baby’s bone formation has begun, so it’s important to take vitamin D and calcium supplements. Iron supplements will prevent you from becoming anaemic as the pregnancy progresses.
Eat foods that contain protein and healthy fats. Avoid eating junk no matter how much you crave it. Junk may cause you to become overweight, which is bad for you and your baby.
Frequent urination is common during pregnancy, so don’t worry if you need to pee more often. It’s important not to hold it in, as doing so can increase your risk of developing a urinary tract infection (UTI). Make sure to urinate whenever needed and empty your bladder each time. Additionally, carefully wiping after using the bathroom helps prevent infections.
Water helps support proper digestion, reduce bloating, and prevent dehydration. Aim to drink at least 8-10 glasses of water daily even if you’re not physically active or experiencing hot weather.
Alcohol, cigarette smoke, and cat faeces will affect your baby in a bad way. Stay away from an environment where people smoke. This is because second-hand smoking is more dangerous than smoking. Get someone else to help you with your cat’s litter. The cat faeces can cause toxoplasmosis.
Due to the increase in your blood volume during pregnancy, you may begin experiencing headaches. Try resting and staying well-hydrated by drinking plenty of water to alleviate them. If your headaches persist and cannot be managed without medication, consult your doctor before taking any medication.
Health Tips for Week 8
Most women will have their first prenatal visit between weeks seven and 8. You’ll have your first ultrasound scan at the prenatal clinic during this appointment. You’ll also be asked about your past pregnancies and their outcomes.
Your healthcare provider will also collect blood and urine samples for various tests. Your blood pressure will be measured, and your height and weight will be taken to calculate your Body Mass Index (BMI) using these figures.
You must take your vitamins and supplements. Also, other medications prescribed by your caregiver should be adhered to strictly. Medications or supplements such as folic acid, calcium, and vitamin D are very important. An absence or reduced amount of folic acid in the body may cause a baby to have some birth deformities.
Your baby’s bone formation has begun, so it’s important to take vitamin D and calcium supplements. Iron supplements will prevent you from becoming anaemic as the pregnancy progresses.
Eat foods that contain protein and healthy fats. Avoid eating junk no matter how much you crave it. Junk may cause you to become overweight, which is bad for you and your baby.
Frequent urination is common during pregnancy, so don’t worry if you need to pee more often. It’s important not to hold it in, as doing so can increase your risk of developing a urinary tract infection (UTI). Make sure to urinate whenever needed and empty your bladder each time. Additionally, carefully wiping after using the bathroom helps prevent infections.
Water helps support proper digestion, reduce bloating, and prevent dehydration. Aim to drink at least 8-10 glasses of water daily even if you’re not physically active or experiencing hot weather.
Alcohol, cigarette smoke, and cat faeces will affect your baby in a bad way. Stay away from an environment where people smoke. This is because second-hand smoking is more dangerous than smoking. Get someone else to help you with your cat’s litter. The cat faeces can cause toxoplasmosis.
Due to the increase in your blood volume during pregnancy, you may begin experiencing headaches. Try resting and staying well-hydrated by drinking plenty of water to alleviate them. If your headaches persist and cannot be managed without medication, consult your doctor before taking any medication.
Advice for Partners
- If you have pets, you might need to assume their care responsibilities while your partner is pregnant. Pregnant women need to avoid changing cat litter to prevent the risk of toxoplasmosis infection.
- You can support her by handling tasks like shopping for dog and cat food, alleviating the need for her to lift heavy bags and reducing strain during pregnancy.
- In addition to fatigue and stress, your pregnant partner may also be experiencing lower back aches and discomfort. To help them relax and unwind, draw a warm bath or give them a soothing massage.
- You can also use gentle sweeping motions to massage their back, shoulders, arms, and legs, incorporating small circular motions to ease tension in the temples.
Pregnancy Checklist for Week 8
- If you haven’t already, find a healthcare provider you feel comfortable with and have confidence in, whether a doctor, nurse practitioner, or midwife.
- Start documenting your pregnancy journey by taking regular photos of your growing bump. Even if your bump isn’t noticeable, you can begin taking photos for comparison as your pregnancy progresses.
- Start planning how and when you’ll announce your pregnancy news to your family and friends.
- Be mindful of your mental health. If you experience prolonged feelings of sadness or distress, take our prenatal depression quiz and review the results with your healthcare provider.
- Consider scheduling an appointment with the dentist; they can offer personalised advice on maintaining oral health during pregnancy.
- Consider using sunscreen, as it can help prevent melasma or chloasma, a condition characterised by darker patches of skin on your face or body, triggered by hormonal changes.
- It’s never too early to start planning what you’ll need before your baby arrives. Essential items for your baby registry range from major purchases like a crib and stroller to everyday necessities such as diapers, wipes, and burp cloths.
- Educate yourself about non-invasive prenatal testing (NIPT) (a test to check for chromosomal abnormalities)and determine whether you will proceed.
Key Facts
- This week, your baby resembles more and more like the newborn you’ll soon cradle in your arms, and the embryonic tail is nearly gone.
- Your baby measures around 0.63 inches and weighs about 1.134 grams, comparable to a raspberry’s size.
- Your uterus has expanded from the size of a fist to approximately the size of a grapefruit to accommodate your growing baby.
- Mild pelvic cramping is normal at 8 weeks pregnant, usually associated with the uterus expanding and ligament stretching, but a healthcare provider should evaluate severe or persistent cramps.
- Symptoms such as excessive bleeding and abdominal pain could indicate a miscarriage, requiring immediate notification from your healthcare provider.
- Prioritise foods rich in protein and healthy fats, avoiding junk food to maintain a healthy weight for you and your baby.
- If you have pets, your partner might need to assume their care responsibilities while you’re pregnant. Pregnant women should avoid changing cat litter to prevent the risk of toxoplasmosis infections.
- It’s never too early to start planning what you’ll need before your baby arrives. Baby registry!
Frequently Asked Questions
At week 8 of your pregnancy, your baby is as big as a raspberry, weighs about 1.134 grams and measures about 0.63 inches.
The reality is that you’ll likely experience pregnancy symptoms throughout your entire pregnancy. However, the good news is that these symptoms will evolve as your pregnancy advances and your baby grows.
Typically, the second trimester relieves the worst nausea, and you’ll feel your energy returning until you near the end of your pregnancy. If you’re symptom-free at 8 weeks pregnant, don’t be surprised if symptoms appear soon. Just remember, whatever you’re experiencing, it will eventually change.
Your body has undergone numerous changes since becoming pregnant. Previously, your uterus was roughly the size of your fist, but now it’s grown to about the size of a grapefruit to accommodate your growing baby. You might have also observed changes in your breasts, which may feel more tender and sensitive.
This adjustment is perfectly normal as your body readies itself for lactation. Additionally, your blood volume has increased by 40 to 50 per cent, a change you might not have noticed but is crucial for supporting you and your baby during pregnancy.
8 weeks pregnant, it’s safe to continue exercising if you feel comfortable doing so. Staying active during pregnancy can help you adjust to your changing body shape and weight gain while aiding in labour preparation. Research suggests active women may experience fewer issues during the later stages of pregnancy and labour.
If you notice that your pregnancy symptoms suddenly disappear or shift unexpectedly, it’s natural to feel concerned. While this change could potentially indicate a miscarriage, it could also be due to the normal hormonal changes that occur during pregnancy. It’s not unusual for symptoms like morning sickness to lessen or change as you approach the end of the first trimester.
However, if you’re worried about these changes, it’s essential to consult a healthcare professional. They can provide reassurance, conduct necessary diagnostic tests, and offer valuable advice. Communicate any symptoms or changes you’re experiencing during your prenatal appointments to ensure proper monitoring and care.
While reducing caffeine consumption during pregnancy is wise, completely cutting out your morning coffee isn’t required. Suddenly quitting coffee, especially if you’re a regular drinker, can lead to unpleasant side effects like headaches or feeling unwell due to caffeine withdrawal.
According to ACOG (the American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists), consuming less than 200 milligrams of caffeine daily is considered moderate and safe during pregnancy.
Frequently Asked Questions
At week 8 of your pregnancy, your baby is as big as a raspberry, weighs about 1.134 grams and measures about 0.63 inches.
The reality is that you’ll likely experience pregnancy symptoms throughout your entire pregnancy. However, the good news is that these symptoms will evolve as your pregnancy advances and your baby grows.
Typically, the second trimester relieves the worst nausea, and you’ll feel your energy returning until you near the end of your pregnancy. If you’re symptom-free at 8 weeks pregnant, don’t be surprised if symptoms appear soon. Just remember, whatever you’re experiencing, it will eventually change.
Your body has undergone numerous changes since becoming pregnant. Previously, your uterus was roughly the size of your fist, but now it’s grown to about the size of a grapefruit to accommodate your growing baby. You might have also observed changes in your breasts, which may feel more tender and sensitive.
This adjustment is perfectly normal as your body readies itself for lactation. Additionally, your blood volume has increased by 40 to 50 per cent, a change you might not have noticed but is crucial for supporting you and your baby during pregnancy.
8 weeks pregnant, it’s safe to continue exercising if you feel comfortable doing so. Staying active during pregnancy can help you adjust to your changing body shape and weight gain while aiding in labour preparation. Research suggests active women may experience fewer issues during the later stages of pregnancy and labour.
If you notice that your pregnancy symptoms suddenly disappear or shift unexpectedly, it’s natural to feel concerned. While this change could potentially indicate a miscarriage, it could also be due to the normal hormonal changes that occur during pregnancy. It’s not unusual for symptoms like morning sickness to lessen or change as you approach the end of the first trimester.
However, if you’re worried about these changes, it’s essential to consult a healthcare professional. They can provide reassurance, conduct necessary diagnostic tests, and offer valuable advice. Communicate any symptoms or changes you’re experiencing during your prenatal appointments to ensure proper monitoring and care.
While reducing caffeine consumption during pregnancy is wise, completely cutting out your morning coffee isn’t required. Suddenly quitting coffee, especially if you’re a regular drinker, can lead to unpleasant side effects like headaches or feeling unwell due to caffeine withdrawal.
According to ACOG (the American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists), consuming less than 200 milligrams of caffeine daily is considered moderate and safe during pregnancy.
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