Pregnancy Week 8
Baby’s Growth During the 8th Week of Pregnancy
You probably can’t feel it yet but your tiny raspberry sized baby is now making spontaneous movements it twitches the tiny trunk and limb buds. Looking a little less like a reptile and more like a baby, the nose, lips, legs, eyelids, and back continue to take shape.
Breathing tubes are extending from throat to the branches of the developing lungs, and “the tail” is just about gone. And in the brain, nerve cells are forming primitive neural pathways. Your baby’s heart rate has now reached the incredible rate of 150 times per minute.
Though you may be dreaming about your baby being a boy or girl, the external genitals still haven’t developed enough to reveal whether you’re having a boy or girl.
Body Changes in the 8th Week of Pregnancy
You’re probably not exactly showing yet but your clothes may be getting a little snug around the tummy and you might be feeling the need to buy a bigger bra. When shopping, keep in mind that your tummy is going to need lots of room to grow, so try and buy clothes that will last you through the 9th month rather than certain maternity wear that’s sold for particular trimester use. And for some women, your breasts can increase up to two cups sizes and feel ultra sensitive, and a comfortably, supportive nursing/sleeping bra can really help – and will last you through your pregnancy and beyond childbirth for breastfeeding.
Dramatic rises in progesterone may leave you feeling fatigued and certainly morning sickness doesn’t leave you feeling full of energy. If you’re having trouble getting a good night’s sleep, it’s normal – especially if you’re getting up often to pee. Don’t worry – it’s normal during your first trimester of pregnancy. The worst of the morning sickness and/or fatigue should peak at around 8 weeks, and by your 10th week of pregnancy it should be subsiding and you’ll be getting your energy back. The hormones in your body should equalize by the second trimester and and most of the pregnancy discomforts should fade away into a blissful state of both excitement and peace about your pregnancy.
