Pregnancy Week 8
Baby Development
By week 8, the baby develops to about half an inch tall, about the size of a kidney bean. The baby’s body parts become more developed and defined during this period. The limbs become longer with defined elbows, ankles, fingers, and toes, and the face grows with the eyelid, nose, and lips more focused.
Changes in mother
The signs of pregnancy appear on the mother during this time. Some changes happening include but are not limited to the following
- Fatigue
- Gas and Bloating
- Nausea
- More Virginal discharge
- Constipation
- Craving
Pregnancy Due Date Calculator
Pregnancy Week 8 symptoms
The most common symptoms are morning sickness, dizziness, fatigue, crampedness, and breast changes. There can also be constipation, diarrhea, or discomfort in the abdomen during these early times of pregnancy. It can cause feelings of anxiety and fear, which are pretty standard. The symptoms and timing vary, or one can be lucky enough not to encounter them.
Important Tips
What to do
- Pregnancy is very tiring. Ask your spouse, family, and friends for any help.
- It’s normal to gain weight even if it’s not showing on the body. Alternatively, you can lose weight due to constant nausea and vomiting. However, it would be best to get nutrients as you are eating for two.
- It’s essential to eat right, like fruits, healthy snacks, and smaller meals, to keep your blood sugar level right and avoid dizziness
- Try to include more fiber in the diet to avoid bloating.
- Drink at least 10-12 glasses of water
- Sometimes, retail therapy is just what the Doctor orders. It’s not showing in this stage of pregnancy, but your cloth might become a little tighter. Buying a few stretchy yoga pants or comfortable lingerie would be fabulous.
What to avoid
- Any vigorous activity that can cause you to breathe at a high rate or put any pressure on the belly
- Avoid Caffeine, liquor, cigarette, sweeteners, and particular medication after consulting with the doctor
- Hot tubs and any chemical treatments for your hair
- Avoid fumes and chemicals in building a nursery or any house projects.
When to Consult a Doctor
- Mild cramps and minor discomforts are normal and have no cause for concern. However, if the symptoms are severe, it’s better to consult the doctor
- Pregnancy symptoms are inconsistent and can come and go with time. However, if there are no symptoms for a long time, it’s better to consult a doctor.
- If there is too much anxiety, consult a mental health professional.
- If there’s a fever, frequent urination, or pain in the body
Takeaway
During the first 2 weeks of pregnancy, you are not pregnant, which is a phase of preparation of the body for the future baby. However, you must eat a healthy diet and exercise daily to prepare your body for a healthy pregnancy.
- N H S
Pregnancy - Healthdirect Australia
Healthdirect - The Cleveland Clinic
Fetal Development - The Mayo Clinic
Fetal development - Women Health
Pregnancy: Stages of pregnancy