8th week of pregnancy
Is that little belly starting to show? Maybe a little! Maybe it’s the pregnancy bloat, but if you’ve noticed, it’s normal for your pants to be a little tight.
Are you ready for your first doctor’s appointment? It is important that you feel comfortable and safe with your doctor – after all, you will be traveling this journey with your doctor for the next few months!
If you haven’t had an early ultrasound, you can do it in the coming days! Hearing your baby’s heartbeat will melt your heart, be prepared.
You may be starting to feel that pregnancy is now real. Like most women, you are having your first date in these weeks, and it is normal to be a little excited and a little nervous!
What You Need to Know About Your Baby in the 8th Week of Pregnancy
Those tiny fingers and toes are now almost fully formed, the arm and leg buds are becoming prominent and the feet are webbed like fins. This week, your baby’s embryonic tail is also disappearing, meaning his or her body has started to change from its initial curvaceous shape to a more upright, human-like form. Your baby’s body now has most of the things adults have: bones, muscles, a cute little nose and even eye color is starting to develop! Fun fact: Your baby’s taste buds are forming this week, preparing for their first taste experiences in the future.
How big is your 8-week-old baby?
Your baby is the size of a raspberry this week! She is about 1.6 centimeters long and weighs 1 gram. Your little miracle is growing by about 1 millimeter every day! (In the app, your baby may look like different fruits depending on the weeks, this is just to make this miraculous period more fun 😊)
8-Week Baby’s Appearance
Your baby looks like a tiny bean this week! At 8 weeks you may have a chance to see her on ultrasound, so don’t wait too long. During these weeks, your baby’s arms, legs, fingers and toes are starting to become visible. Her tiny nose and upper lip are starting to become visible, and her eyelids and ears are slowly taking shape.
How many months does 8 weeks correspond to?
An 8-week pregnancy is 2 months pregnant. However, doctors usually track pregnancy in weeks. Therefore, it would be more accurate to follow weeks instead of months. The month information given here is only for you to answer those who ask “How many months are you pregnant?” 🙂
8 Week Ultrasound
This is when you are likely to have your first doctor’s check-up (i.e. your 8-week pregnancy appointment), at which you will probably be able to see your baby. It will be a moment that will melt your heart, because inside he will be moving his arms and legs like crazy! Even if you can’t feel it yet, it’s really moving inside!
At this first appointment you will probably have a blood test and your doctor will find out your blood type and whether you are Rh positive or negative (if you are negative and your baby is positive, some precautions can be taken in the future). Your hormone levels, red and white blood cell levels will also be checked. Your blood will also be screened for hepatitis B, sexually transmitted diseases, HIV and certain immune conditions.
A Pap smear test can check for infection or abnormalities. You will also need to give a urine sample, and at this visit – and probably at each subsequent visit – the protein levels in your urine will be monitored for signs of urinarytract infection and the risk of pre-eclampsia. This is where your new routine starts!
8th Week of Pregnancy Pregnancy Symptoms i
At 8 weeks pregnant, can you detect even the slightest smell? Hormones may have given you an almost super sense of smell this week, which could trigger nausea. Here are some common symptoms you may experience at 8 weeks:
Breast tenderness Your breasts may become larger, heavier and unfortunately sensitive. This is because the lobes that produce milk are beginning to enlarge. This tenderness is a necessary step in preparation for breastfeeding.
Fatigue: Tiredness is common at 8 weeks pregnant. As hormones fluctuate, your body is producing more blood for your baby and your blood pressure and blood sugar levels may be lower than before pregnancy. Your body is also expending energy for your little miracle. So what’s the solution? More sleep! We know, it’s easy to say, but make sleep a priority; it’s a good idea to recharge with little naps on the weekends.
Morning sickness In week 8, nausea may intensify. Try to drink plenty of water and eat light, healthy snacks throughout the day. If your nausea is intense and eating is difficult, it is important to find foods that your stomach can handle. Ginger, vitamin B6 and acupuncture bracelets can help.
Odor Sensitivity Another symptom that comes with morning sickness: an overly sensitive sense of smell. Even smells that didn’t bother you before can cause nausea, so try to avoid smells that you are sensitive to.
Pregnancy Cramps Mild cramps are normal in the 8th week of pregnancy. The cramps are caused by the stretching of the ligaments in the abdomen as your uterus expands. However, if the cramps are severe or you are worried, talk to your doctor.
If you are experiencing these symptoms this week, know that you are not alone; this process is different for every expectant mother, but also full of common experiences.
Other Symptoms You May Experience in the 8th Week of Pregnancy
Constipation If you have trouble going to the toilet, you are not alone. Constipation during pregnancy occurs in about 50 percent of expectant mothers. As a solution, drink plenty of water, eat fiber-rich fruits and vegetables, avoid constipating foods such as white grains and rice, and take frequent walks. If you are still not getting relief, you can consult your doctor for other solutions.
Strange Dreams Don’t be surprised if you have strange and vivid dreams! Such dreams are quite normal during pregnancy. Although the exact cause is unknown, it could be the effect of new thoughts and worries. After all, you have a lot on your mind right now!
Spotting: Seeing light bleeding or spotting at 8 weeks pregnant can be scary because blood can sometimes be a sign of miscarriage. However, things like sexual intercourse in the first trimester can also cause spotting as the cervix becomes more sensitive. Don’t hesitate to tell your doctor just in case.
When Will My Pregnancy Symptoms End?
Realistically, various symptoms will persist throughout the pregnancy. The good news is that these symptoms will change as the pregnancy progresses. Most expectant mothers experience relief in the second trimester as nausea subsides and energy levels return. If you are still experiencing symptoms or are just starting to feel them now, don’t worry; everything is fine and normal.
How Can You Feel at 8 Weeks Pregnant?
With constant fatigue, nausea, a tender belly and constantly fluctuating emotions, you might even be a little bored with this pregnancy process, and that’s completely normal! If you’re wondering how you’re going to spend the next eight months, relax. Things will get a little easier in the second trimester, so be kind to yourself until then. Raising a baby is not easy!
If you are pregnant with twins, you are probably feeling more tired and nauseous because your body is releasing more hormones needed for two babies. Remember this: These intense symptoms are due to the rapid growth of the baby and your body is getting used to the hormones. Many expectant mothers start to feel more energetic in the second trimester, so remind yourself that this is temporary.
It’s also normal if you don’t feel any pregnancy symptoms at week 8. Even if you don’t feel a big change yet, you may start to feel the signs of this period very soon!
What Should Your Belly Look Like in the 8th Week of Pregnancy?

How big do you think your belly should be at 8 weeks pregnant? It is normal to have a slightly prominent belly at 8 weeks pregnant or to have a completely flat belly! Every mom and baby develops differently. Your uterus is expanding rapidly on the inside, but for some expectant mothers this may be noticeable later on the outside. For example, if you are pregnant with twins, your belly may appear sooner than if you are carrying a single baby.
When you enter the second trimester, your doctor will probably start measuring your belly, but for now the size is not important. Healthy weight gain in the first trimester is usually between 0.5 and 2.5 pounds in total, so you may have gained a few pounds at 8 weeks pregnant. If you are experiencing morning sickness, you may have gained little or no weight at all – which is completely normal. During the first trimester, eating habits may change along with nausea, which may contribute to weight gain or loss. Your doctor will monitor your overall weight, so if you have any concerns about the size of your belly or your weight, it’s best to share them with your doctor.
Tips for the 8th Week of Pregnancy
It’s normal to want to sleep all day if nausea makes you tired. But here are some tips to take better care of yourself and your baby this week:
Make the most of your hunger moments: During these weeks, sometimes you may not want to eat and sometimes you may want to empty the fridge. You can use the moments when you feel hungry to eat nutritious and healthy foods, as it can be difficult to get these foods when the nausea returns.
Prevent Headaches: You may start to experience headaches due to your increased blood volume (oh, that too). Try to rest and drink plenty of water. If your headaches can’t be controlled without medication, talk to your doctor about using paracetamol (safer in pregnancy than aspirin or ibuprofen).
Start using sunscreen: Getting outside for a 30-minute walk every day is great exercise and can help alleviate other pregnancy symptoms. But if you are experiencing changes in your skin, such as dark spots (chloasma or melasma), sun exposure can make them more noticeable. Apply SPF 30+ sunscreen every day and wear a hat to protect your skin.
Toilet Urge You may still feel the urge to go to the toilet often, which is completely normal. However, you should not hold your urine! Since the risk of urinary tract infections is higher during pregnancy, go to the toilet as soon as you feel the urge, empty your bladder completely and clean it thoroughly to prevent infection.
These tips will help you feel more comfortable and provide the best care for your baby.
What Not to Do:
- Risky Activities: Avoid activities that pose a risk of falling or injury.
- Avoid Heavy Lifting: Avoid lifting heavy objects, ask for help if necessary.
- Smoking and alcohol: Avoid smoking and alcohol for your baby’s health.
- High Mercury Fish: Avoid fish high in mercury, such as swordfish and king mackerel.
- Medicines Harmful to Pregnancy: Do not use any medications or herbal supplements without your doctor’s approval.
Frequently Asked Questions and Answers
Frequently asked questions about the 8th week of pregnancy are an important resource, especially for women experiencing pregnancy for the first time. This section addresses pregnancy questions with informative and supportive answers. Here are some common questions specific to this period and their answers:
Pregnancy Week 8 What Causes Spotting?
Spotting is quite common in early pregnancy. Harmless causes, such as implantation bleeding or the development of the placenta, can cause mild bleeding. However, it is important to report any bleeding to your doctor, as this can also be a sign of an ectopic pregnancy or threatened miscarriage.
When does morning sickness start and how long does it last?
Morning sickness usually starts from week 6 and can last until week 12, but each woman may experience it differently.
Is Diarrhea Normal in the 8th Week of Pregnancy?
At 8 weeks, constipation is more common, but some expectant mothers may also experience diarrhea. Some even alternate between constipation and diarrhea. If your diarrhea is excessive, it is best to consult your doctor. The most important thing when it comes to diarrhea during pregnancy is to drink plenty of fluids to prevent dehydration.
What nutrient deficiencies are common in the 8th week of pregnancy and how can I prevent them?
Iron and folic acid deficiencies are common. You can prevent these deficiencies with a balanced diet and vitamin supplements recommended by your doctor.
What are the most common challenges during this period?
Emotional fluctuations due to hormonal changes, fatigue and morning sickness are the most common challenges.
Is sexual intercourse safe during this period of my pregnancy?
If you are having a healthy pregnancy and your doctor has not told you otherwise, sexual intercourse is generally safe.
What happens if I get a urinary tract infection in early pregnancy?
If you get a urinary tract infection in early pregnancy, don’t worry. When treated quickly, a UTI (urinary tract infection) will not harm your baby. Your doctor will prescribe antibiotics to treat the infection and may ask for another urine sample after a few days to make sure the infection is completely gone. But if left untreated, the infection can spread to the kidneys and cause serious health problems, increasing the risk of pregnancy loss.
Things to do in the 8th week of pregnancy
Reminders for this week:
Spend time with yourself: The first weeks of pregnancy can bring some intense emotions. Read a favorite book, relax with a hot cup of tea or go for a walk. Making time for yourself during this period will keep your spirits up.
Review your eating habits: Focus on eating more fiber, protein and vitamin-rich foods to give your baby a healthy start. Trying new recipes can be fun!
Start a pregnancy diary: You can keep a diary where you can write down your feelings, your experiences during this period or weekly updates. When you look back in the future, you will collect memories that will make both you and your baby happy.
Think about the details you want to share with your family: You can make plans on how you want to find out the gender of your baby or how you want to share small updates about your pregnancy. This is an exciting time for your family and friends too!
Buy Comfortable Clothes: Since the bloating may continue, you may want to consider buying some elasticized clothing or a pregnancy band that makes you feel comfortable. The more comfortable you feel, the easier it will be to enjoy the process.
