Welcome to your week-by-week pregnancy guide! Here we provide you with essential information about what to anticipate during your pregnancy journey, including symptoms, fetal development, and changes to your body. Let’s dive into what you can expect at 8 weeks pregnant.
Your Body at 8 Weeks Pregnant
Feeling Curvier
While your pregnancy may not be immediately visible to others, your wardrobe is certainly feeling the effects. You might find your pants and bras fitting a bit tighter as your body begins to change. Although weight gain is gradual at this stage, your uterus has expanded from the size of a fist to that of a grapefruit to support your growing baby. As your breasts prepare for lactation, you might notice a little extra fullness. Treat yourself to some comfortable yoga pants and a supportive bra — you deserve this!
Mood Swings
If you’re experiencing mood swings, take a deep breath. This is completely normal. Emotional fluctuations are common between the first and tenth weeks of pregnancy, influenced by hormonal changes. You may also be juggling concerns about finances, lifestyle adjustments, and your future parenting abilities (don’t worry, you’ll do great!). To help manage these feelings, consider downloading a meditation app to bring some calm into your day. Remember, you’ve got this.
Increased Heart Rate
Your heart is working overtime, and it’s not just from the excitement. As your baby requires more resources for growth, your blood volume has increased by 40 to 50 percent, causing your heart to beat faster.
Your Baby at 8 Weeks Pregnant
At this stage, your little one is roughly the size of a tater tot, measuring about half an inch long. Most facial features have formed, and their trunk is straightening out, resembling the adorable bundle you’ll soon be snuggling. With tiny webbed fingers and toes, your baby can now swim around in the womb. All major organs have developed and will continue to grow. Interestingly, your baby’s heart beats between 80 to 180 times per minute, which is a positive sign of development! Although external genitalia aren’t distinguishable yet, the sex of your baby has already been determined, presenting you with the exciting dilemma of whether to host a gender reveal party.
Symptoms and Health at 8 Weeks Pregnant
Sensitivity to Smells
As if food aversions weren’t enough, you may find yourself grappling with heightened sensitivity to smells. Certain scents could trigger nausea more easily, making you feel like a bloodhound on the hunt for fresh air.
Pregnancy Acne
If you thought acne was a thing of the past, think again! Many women experience oilier skin and breakouts during pregnancy, particularly in the first and second trimesters, thanks to hormonal fluctuations. Before trying any over-the-counter treatments, ensure you consult with a healthcare provider regarding their safety.
Constipation
Feeling bloated or experiencing constipation is common during pregnancy. Factors like anxiety, low-fiber diets, and a lack of physical activity can contribute to this discomfort. To keep things moving, hydrate well, incorporate more fruits and vegetables into your diet, and take daily brisk walks. It may be wise to avoid iron supplements, which can exacerbate constipation.
Vaginal Discharge
Noticing a thin, milky discharge? This is leukorrhea, a normal sign of your body protecting the birth canal from infections and maintaining a healthy bacterial environment.
Double Trouble
You might not know yet that you’re expecting twins, but your body does. Your clothes may feel tighter, your heart rate elevated, and you might experience symptoms more intensely than with a single baby — but you won’t have confirmation for another couple of weeks.
For more insights on pregnancy, check out this helpful resource. If you’re interested in a more in-depth look at fertility journeys, visit Make A Mom. And to catch up on previous weeks, don’t miss out on our related post here.
Summary
At 8 weeks pregnant, your baby is the size of a tater tot, and many physical and emotional changes are taking place. You may be feeling curvier, experiencing mood swings, and noticing physical symptoms like sensitivity to smells and acne. As your baby develops rapidly, all major organs are formed, and exciting times lie ahead.