Pregnancy week 8
At pregnancy week 8 chances are that some nausea and much fatigue are the most immediate signs that the baby is growing. In fact, at this stage, the baby can reach 20 mm in length. The baby’s growth and development during week 8 is pretty significant. The tadpole-like tail begins to vanish, eyelids begin to form, elbows emerge, the cartilage part of the end of the nose is formed, and arms and legs get longer and more defined, although fingers and toes will still probably have some webbing. The nerve cells in the baby’s brain begin attaching to each other and start to develop the network of brain tissues that will serve the baby for the rest of it’s life. The lungs also continue to develop, with tissues branching out from the pipes connecting the throat to the lungs.
Although the pregnancy still cannot be judged from an outsider’s perspective, at week 8 the uterus is continuing to enlarge and the mother is thoroughly aware that she is pregnant. For first time mothers, it isn’t unusual for their appearance to show no obvious sings of pregnancy until around the 4th or 5th months. In week 8 however, mothers who have been pregnant before can start to show. Also at this point, breasts tend to begin to enlarge, causing some soreness. If the soreness persists, a maternity bra is a likely aid that will be of use for the rest of the pregnancy. A common first trimester experience with women is mild abdominal cramping. The body’s expansion to accommodate a baby can be the reason for this. However, should the cramping become intense or relentless, or should a woman notice some bleeding during this time, a healthcare provider should be contacted immediately. Some other common complaints during this point in the pregnancy include a lower backache. The uterus is bearing down more pressure on this region of the body than it is used to. Also, pressure on the sciatic nerve can cause a stinging pain throughout the buttocks and the side of the thigh. Fortunately, these symptoms will pass as the pregnancy goes progresses.
Current guidance (today's medical sources): By week eight, distinct fingers and toes are forming as the webbing between them recedes, and the embryo begins making small spontaneous movements that are not yet felt. Early symptoms commonly continue. A balanced diet, prenatal vitamins as advised, and avoiding alcohol, smoking, and unverified medications remain standard general guidance.
Contact your healthcare provider promptly about heavy vaginal bleeding, severe or persistent abdominal pain, a high fever, severe or sudden headache, vision changes, or fainting. Seek urgent care if you are worried — these can be signs that need medical attention.
Sources: NHS — 8 weeks pregnant; Mayo Clinic — Fetal development: The 1st trimester; ACOG — Pregnancy (FAQ / month-by-month). Informational only. See our sources & medical-review policy.
Frequently asked questions
How many months is 8 weeks pregnant?
Week 8 falls in the first trimester. Pregnancy is usually counted in weeks (about 40 in total) rather than months, because weeks are more precise.
What is happening to the baby at 8 weeks?
Fingers and toes begin to form and webbing recedes; the embryo makes small movements.
What symptoms are common at week 8?
Symptoms often continue; some notice clearer skin changes or heightened smell. Symptoms vary a lot from person to person; discuss anything that worries you with your healthcare provider.
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See the week-by-week guide →Informational only — not medical advice. Pregnancy Week to Week is a general educational reference. It is not a substitute for professional medical care, diagnosis, or treatment. Every pregnancy is different: always consult your doctor, midwife, or other qualified healthcare provider about your own pregnancy, and never disregard or delay professional advice because of something you read here. In an emergency, contact your maternity unit or local emergency number immediately.