8 Weeks Pregnant

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Learn about common symptoms, embryo development, the dating scan, and tips for a healthy pregnancy in our comprehensive guide to Week 8.

Congratulations! You’re now eight weeks pregnant and your baby is developing rapidly. This week, your baby is the size of a raspberry and all of their major organs and systems are starting to form. Let’s see what’s happening in your body and with your baby.

Embryo Development in Week 8

During week 8, your baby is considered an embryo and is about the size of a raspberry. Despite their small size, your baby is growing quickly and all their major organs and systems are starting to form. The head is becoming more rounded and their facial features are starting to take shape with their eyes, ears, and nose becoming more defined.

Heart Beat Week 8

The heart is beating at a rapid pace and their tiny arms and legs are starting to move. In fact, they may be practicing their reflexes, such as hiccupping or sucking their thumb. Additionally, their brain is developing rapidly, growing at a rate of around 100 cells per minute. At this stage, your baby’s hair follicles are starting to form, and their digestive and respiratory systems are beginning to take shape.

Common Symptoms Week 8

As your body works hard to grow your baby, you may start to experience some common pregnancy symptoms. Nausea and vomiting are common in the early weeks of pregnancy, as is fatigue. You may also experience breast tenderness, mood swings, and food cravings or aversions. Increased vaginal discharge is also common during pregnancy, which is normal. However, if you notice any unusual changes in color or odor, or experience itching or irritation, be sure to let your healthcare provider know.

The Dating Scan Week 8 – 14

Between weeks 8 and 14, you may have a dating scan to determine your due date and check on your baby’s development. The scan typically takes around 30 minutes and is painless. During the scan, the sonographer will use a handheld device called a transducer to create a picture of your baby on a screen. The scan can help determine the gestational age of your baby and any potential issues or abnormalities, although this is rare.

What happens in 8 week dating scan?

The sonographer will measure your baby and check for a heartbeat, as well as the position of your baby and your uterus. If you’re feeling nervous about the scan, don’t worry, it’s a routine part of prenatal care and the sonographer will explain everything as they go along.

Tips for Week 8 of Pregnancy

Take care of yourself.

Pregnancy can be tough, so make sure you’re eating a balanced diet, staying hydrated, and getting plenty of rest. Try to avoid alcohol, tobacco, and other harmful substances, and take any prenatal vitamins or supplements recommended by your healthcare provider.

Get support

If you’re feeling overwhelmed or anxious, reach out to your partner, a friend, or a healthcare provider. Talking about your feelings can help you feel better and more supported. Even better – join us in The Due Date Club. This is a safe space to connect with other women at the same stage of pregnancy to share symptoms, chat baby names and get inspiration. Plus you’ll get access to 6 practical courses (everything from early pregnancy to breastfeeding) to ensure that you have everything you need to have a healthy and happy pregnancy.

Keep track of your symptoms

It’s important to keep track of any symptoms you’re experiencing and let your healthcare provider know if anything seems unusual or concerning.

Stay active

Exercise is safe and beneficial during pregnancy, as long as you check with your healthcare provider first. Consider taking a prenatal yoga or fitness class, going for walks, or swimming.