Eighth obstetric week of pregnancy: what happens in the body of the mother and fetus? Condition of the woman and fetus in the eighth week of pregnancy Why is there a big belly at the 8th week of pregnancy?

The gestational age of 8 weeks, also known as 10 obstetric weeks, is marked by the fact that the development of the main organs and systems of the fetus has been completed. The liver, brain, kidneys, heart and lungs are already formed. As of this week, there are no more developmental defects. You can breathe out. However, do not go to great lengths, since the child’s body before birth is completely dependent on the mother’s. Cigarettes and alcohol are prohibited.

Signs of pregnancy 8 weeks after conceiving a child

There is nothing new, but toxicosis, as a rule, reaches its peak. It is expressed by indigestion, nausea and vomiting, bloating, and heartburn. Some women experience constipation. Irregular bowel movements are usually due to some degree of dehydration (caused by vomiting) and a poor diet. The latter is caused by nausea. In this case, lactulose syrup can help. But for it to work well, you must drink a lot of fluid.

The skin of the face and body becomes oilier, this is facilitated by the growth of the hormones hCG and progesterone, as well as androgen. Oily skin triggers acne outbreaks. Androgens cause sebum production. And when it gets into open pores, it becomes fertile ground for the proliferation of pathogenic microorganisms that provoke inflammation. As a result of this, acne appears.

Another feature of pregnancy is the condition of the gums. They bleed more often than usual, swell, and become sensitive.

Inflammation of the gums is called gingivitis, and if it occurs due to pregnancy, then it is called pregnancy gingivitis. Many of the symptoms of an interesting position will gradually go away in the second trimester of pregnancy, but this one, on the contrary, will become brighter. Especially if a woman does not maintain sufficient oral hygiene. Inflammation mainly occurs in the gum pockets, where food gets in (if it is not promptly or completely cleaned out).

Expectant mothers should visit a dentist at least twice during pregnancy, since poor condition of gums and teeth (caries) is dangerous in terms of the development of the inflammatory process. Your doctor may need to give you a professional teeth cleaning to remove tartar. This will have a beneficial effect on the condition of the gums.

Unpleasant sensations of the expectant mother in the eighth week

They are also associated with vaginal discharge. As we wrote earlier, the discharge becomes very abundant. But this is not dangerous for the fetus, only unpleasant for the expectant mother. The development of inflammatory processes in the vagina and cervix is ​​more dangerous.

One of the most common problems is thrush or vaginal candidiasis. Unpleasant sensations in the vagina occur precisely when a woman’s body is weakened, immunity is reduced, as during pregnancy, especially in the first trimester and in particular in the eighth week.

Fortunately, pregnant women can also be treated for thrush. There are safe means. But using douching for these purposes, with the same soda, for example, is not safe. The fact is that when douching, especially with an intense stream, there is a risk of introducing fungi into the uterus. And this is already fraught with miscarriage.

Making baths with chamomile and other medicinal herbs is an ineffective procedure. It may temporarily make you feel better and relieve itching, but it will not cure the disease, since fungi live inside the vagina, and baths kill them only in the genital area.

Important: you can start treating thrush only after confirming that this is it. Sometimes women mistake simply heavy discharge and irritation from underwear, intimate hygiene products, etc. for candidiasis.

In a smear for thrush, not only the fungi themselves are determined, but also a large number of leukocytes. They indicate an inflammatory process and are a reason for treatment. The simplest thing that gynecologists can prescribe for vaginal sanitation in this case is antiseptics, such as vaginal suppositories with chlorhexidine. An effective and inexpensive remedy for thrush, Clotrimazole, can be used only from the 10th week after conception (12th obstetric week).

Often expectant mothers are concerned about vaginal dysbiosis. With this pathology, gray discharge with a very unpleasant odor appears. Treatment is with antibacterial, but not antifungal, drugs.

What does the expectant mother feel and notice?

Many women expecting the birth of a child like to examine themselves in the mirror, looking for signs of pregnancy in the eighth week in the form of a slightly rounded tummy. But, unfortunately, at this stage the uterus is still too small. Although the tummy may indeed already be a little rounder. But not because of an enlarged uterus, but because of flatulence. One way or another, for your comfort, it’s time to consider buying new trousers with an elastic waistband. The belly may also become larger due to weight gain. So far it is not significant, about 1 kilogram. But this kilogram probably remained on the abdominal wall. In this way, nature tries to protect the fetus from external influences.

Some fatigue may persist, which is why the physical activity of women, especially housewives, is reduced. If the expectant mother feels fine, but is simply too lazy to leave the house, this is not very good. Fresh air is necessary for both mother and child. And physical activity allows you to keep your muscles toned. If you move little, your muscles weaken. Then, in the long term, it will be difficult to carry a child. And after giving birth, when the mother has many new responsibilities, including long walks with a stroller, it will be difficult to fulfill them.

Useful device - fetal doppler

This is a small ultrasound device for home use that helps you listen to your baby's heartbeat. Why is it needed? To know for sure that everything is fine with the child and he is alive. Typically, a fetal doppler is purchased by women who are prone to anxiety, as well as those who have already had frozen pregnancies.

Fetal Doppler is sold in online stores. And at lower prices - in Chinese. You can use it already at this time. However, you need to be prepared for the fact that it will be difficult to find the baby’s heartbeat. He's still too small.

You should look for the baby's heartbeat above the pubic bone. Not higher, since the uterus is still very low. If you see numbers - 70-80 beats, this is your pulse. The child's heartbeat is 2 times faster. But numbers 140-160 can already indicate the child’s heartbeat. Remember the place where you managed to listen to it. With increasing gestational age and growth of the uterus, and also depending on the position of the fetus, the heart will be heard in different places.

What happens to the fetus and in the uterus in the eighth week of gestation

Your child has completed a critical stage of development. Now organs and tissues will only develop and improve, preparing for life outside the protection of the uterus.

The amount of amniotic fluid increases. Towards the end of pregnancy, they normally range from 500 grams to 1.5 liters. In the meantime, about 20 ml.

Your baby gradually swallows the amniotic fluid present in the uterus with his tiny mouth. The fetus urinates even into the amniotic fluid. The fact that this happens to the fetus at eight weeks of pregnancy and the rest of the time is absolutely safe. This process is a rehearsal for the functioning of the digestive and urinary systems.

Amniotic fluid is made up of 98% water and 2% salts and your baby's cells. It is thanks to this that the fetus maintains a constant body temperature in utero. Also, amniotic fluid acts as a lubricant and prevents the baby’s fingers and other parts of the body from growing together.

Another important function of amniotic fluid is to absorb shock and protect the baby from any impact on the abdomen.

It is believed that amniotic fluid is the cause of the formation of the immersion reflex or, as it is also called, the bradycardic response. It is expressed as follows: after birth, children, when immersed in water with their heads, hold their breath and open their eyes slightly. You can achieve the same reaction by blowing lightly on the newborn's face. This reflex soon weakens, but even adults have it to some extent.

Swedish scientists conducted an experiment on two dozen children under the age of one year. They were lowered headlong into the water, but not a single baby in the water began to breathe or suffocate. In addition, they did not experience any stress on their next dive.

Because of the existence of this reflex, it is said that teaching young children to swim is easier than older ones. However, this does not mean that if a child falls into the water, he will swim on his own and will not choke in the end.

Tiny nails form on the baby's hands and feet. Down appears on the body and head.

All vital organs, such as the heart, brain, kidneys, pancreas, liver, are in place and begin to function. Red blood cells, blood cells, are already formed by the liver, since the yolk sac is very quickly reduced. The beginnings of teeth appeared on the tiny gums. A taste bud on the tongue has formed.

The joints of the limbs are quite well developed, which makes them very flexible. The spinal nerves emerge from the tiny spine and are now visible through translucent skin. Neurons formed at the edges of the spinal cord.

The baby's head is almost half the length of the entire body. The rapidly developing brain forms a bulge in the forehead. The main parts of the brain are now visible.

The genitals have formed and are maturing quickly. Boys' testicles begin to produce testosterone. But so far it is not possible to determine the sex of the child using an ultrasound.

Your baby is roughly the size of a strawberry or prune. Height is 3-4 cm, and weight is about 5 grams.

Week 8, physical education during pregnancy (video):

Week 8, exercise during pregnancy

2013-06-05T00:00:00

Should I do an ultrasound at this stage?

Many mothers are in a hurry to go for an ultrasound examination and see their baby, but doctors do not advise undergoing an examination now. Indications for ultrasound at 8 weeks, as well as at 9 weeks of pregnancy, is a suspicion of a non-developing embryo. It's still too early for screening. You need to wait until the fetus grows a little so that you can measure its nasal bone, collar area, and examine its organs and limbs. The ideal period for this is 10 weeks from conception or 12 obstetric weeks. The CTE of the fetus must be at least 45 mm.

Genetic analysis - chorionic villus biopsy

If a woman is over 35 years old, the doctor suspects developmental defects in the child based on ultrasound, and there have already been cases of children being born with genetic pathology, a decision may be made to perform this invasive procedure. The doctor uses a needle to take the villi of the future placenta - chorion - for analysis. Using this analysis, various chromosomal pathologies can be identified.

Usually the analysis is performed at 12 weeks (10 from conception), but sometimes earlier, at the request of the woman. This desire may be due to the need to find out early about the child’s possible problems, so as not to later terminate the pregnancy at a later stage.

The disadvantage of the procedure is that there is a risk of miscarriage. Analysis of amniotic fluid (amniocentesis) is considered a safer diagnostic method, but it is performed over a long period of time.

If you suffer from acne, do not continue taking the medications you were using before pregnancy. Acne medications such as Roaccutane (Accutane, Isotretinoin) can cause serious birth defects. Tetracycline, doxycycline and minocycline are also dangerous. They negatively affect the formation of fetal bones and teeth and cause their anomalies.

To treat acne, use home remedies made from cinnamon and honey, turmeric or lemon. Eat healthy foods and drink plenty of water, which helps in flushing out toxins.

We offer you two options for acne masks.

1. Mix a third of a teaspoon of cinnamon powder, honey and a teaspoon of sour cream until smooth. We keep it on the skin for a quarter of an hour, after which we wash it off first with warm and then with cold water (contrast shower for the face). Make a mask 2-3 times a week until you see visible results.

2. Make a mixture of half a teaspoon of cinnamon, one raw egg white and a teaspoon of honey. Apply on face for 20 minutes. Afterwards, rinse with warm water. Make a mask no more than 3 times a week.

Another issue we discussed was pregnancy gingivitis. Prevention is better than cure in this case. If you maintain good oral hygiene, you can prevent gingivitis from occurring in the first place. Do not forget:

  • brush your teeth 2 times a day;
  • Use dental floss once a day;
  • use mouth rinses.

Folk remedies for treating gingivitis are rinsing with herbal decoctions. Oak bark and sage are usually recommended.

At 8 weeks of pregnancy, a woman is usually already aware of the presence of a new growing life in her. At this stage, the baby usually makes itself known clearly - often at 8 weeks of pregnancy, all the signs and symptoms of a woman’s “interesting situation” appear quite clearly. Knowing that she is pregnant, the expectant mother must take great care of herself, get rid of all bad habits and “protect” her baby as much as possible. After all, the 8th week of pregnancy enters the so-called critical period of pregnancy, when any negative factors can affect the development of the baby and the woman’s well-being.

8 weeks of pregnancy necessarily involve a ban on alcohol, nicotine, abstinence from carrying heavy objects, and a transition to a healthy and proper diet. It is also necessary to exclude x-rays and dental treatment using anesthesia.

8 weeks of pregnancy is the time to choose the right underwear, first of all, a bra. After all, the breasts at this stage increase significantly; blood vessels may even be visible on them. This is the action of hormones that prepare the mammary glands for upcoming lactation. Also, under the influence of hormones, the condition of a pregnant woman’s skin can change: in some cases it clears, becomes elastic and healthy, in other cases it becomes dry and flaky.

Starting from the 8th week of pregnancy, the risk of encountering a pregnancy complication such as varicose veins increases significantly. This means that it is advisable to give up high heels, try not to be on your feet for a long time, and rest more often with your legs elevated. You can also start selecting suitable compression garments if necessary.

Signs and symptoms

At 8 weeks of pregnancy, all signs and symptoms are mostly already very pronounced. Although it happens that the signs and symptoms of pregnancy at 8 weeks do not manifest themselves clearly, which makes the woman quite worried, wondering if everything is going as usual. And yet, in most cases, it is during this period that the expectant mother feels “to the maximum” all the signs and symptoms of pregnancy, the most typical of which is toxicosis. This condition is accompanied by dizziness, nausea and vomiting. Vomiting that occurs 1-2 times a day is considered normal. But these manifestations can and should be combated by following a certain diet. But in case of severe toxicosis, it is advisable to seek help from a doctor, because frequent vomiting can negatively affect the development of the child.

Feeling at 8 weeks pregnant

But it’s not just nausea and vomiting that can darken a woman’s happiness during pregnancy. Weakness, drowsiness, excessive irritability and emotional instability - all these sensations at 8 weeks often make a woman suffer. Enlarged, growing breasts also cause certain inconveniences, but you will have to get used to this condition, because the mammary glands will increase throughout pregnancy.

But the weight of a pregnant woman at this stage practically does not change - the fetus is still very small. Moreover, many of the mothers, on the contrary, note some slimness that has appeared. The weight also decreases in those women who are faced with manifestations of toxicosis.

Pain

In addition to early toxicosis, which often “annoys” a woman (usually it goes away by the 12th week of pregnancy), the expectant mother may experience other unpleasant sensations. Thus, a growing uterus causes certain pain at the 8th week of pregnancy, say, in the pelvis and hips, which is explained by irritation of the sciatic nerve. The way out of this situation is to prevent the uterus from pressing on the nerve, for which you need to lie on the opposite side.

The growing uterus also puts pressure on the bladder, resulting in increased urination. But urination should not be accompanied by any painful sensations, and urine should normally be clean and transparent. Pain during the 8th week of pregnancy when urinating, as well as heaviness in the lower abdomen may indicate the presence of cystitis or pyelonephritis and be a reason for consultation with a specialist.

Not so much pain, but a certain discomfort in the form of heartburn can appear at this period due to digestive disorders.

Training contractions, which can appear now, even if they are minor, can also be classified as pain in the 8th week of pregnancy. But if training contractions are accompanied by severe and nagging pain in the lower abdomen, and even bloody discharge even in minimal quantities, it is necessary to urgently call an ambulance.

Bleeding at 8 weeks of pregnancy

After all, spotting, and, especially, bleeding at the 8th week of pregnancy, directly indicates, if not an already begun miscarriage, then a greater threat. And the heavier and longer the bleeding, the greater the risk of spontaneous abortion increases.

Light bleeding at 8 weeks of pregnancy indicates an impending abortion. It can last for days, even weeks, and may be accompanied by cramping abdominal pain, cramps similar to menstrual cramps, or back pain. The main thing with a threatened abortion is a mandatory consultation with a doctor, rest and bed rest, and the exclusion of any negative factors.

If a miscarriage has already begun, bleeding at the 8th week of pregnancy is increased, with blood clots and even tissue - this is how the separation of the fertilized egg from the uterine wall begins. Against the background of bleeding, progressive contractions are observed, caused by the opening and contraction of the cervix. Almost always in such cases, a miscarriage cannot be stopped - the uterus actively contracts and pushes the fetus out.

Discharge

In contrast to bleeding, which is a pathology at this stage, normal discharge at the 8th week of pregnancy is moderate, light or whitish in color, with a slight sour odor. Any changes in the color of the discharge, the appearance of pus, mucus, or an increase in discharge indicate the appearance of an infection in the genitals of the pregnant woman. Other signs of trouble include itching, burning, pain in the genital area, which is accompanied by discharge. Consultation with a doctor and treatment in this case are necessary and inevitable.

Discharge at the 8th week of pregnancy, which is brown in color and sometimes accompanied by nagging pain in the abdominal area, weakness, and dizziness, is also extremely dangerous. Brown discharge at 8 weeks of pregnancy usually accompanies the separation of the fertilized egg from the walls of the uterus, resulting in blood leakage. This alarming symptom indicates a high risk of miscarriage, which is why the appearance of brown discharge, even painless and in small quantities, requires mandatory consultation with a doctor.

Uterus

When pregnancy proceeds according to the norm, the uterus at 8 weeks of pregnancy has the size of a goose egg - approximately 7-8 cm. A specialist determines its growing size during a gynecological examination, because the uterus is not yet palpable from the abdominal wall. Again, a gynecological examination will show that the uterus at 8 weeks of pregnancy is soft, the isthmus is softened, the cervix is ​​long, and the external os is closed. Such indicators give the specialist a reason to make a conclusion about the presence of pregnancy.

Analyzes

After which, send the expectant mother for the necessary tests at 8 weeks of pregnancy. The mandatory list of tests includes a urine test for protein; stool analysis; general blood test to study the level of red blood cells and leukocytes, absence of HIV, determination of the Rh factor; general smear; hCG analysis.

A protein test will help rule out the presence of kidney disease in a pregnant woman, which will be indicated by an increased level of protein in the urine.

A blood test, in turn, will also be a very informative form of determining whether the pregnancy is progressing normally. For example, a low number of red blood cells will indicate anemia, the possibility of leukemia or malignant tumors, while an increased level will indicate chronic lung diseases or heart disease. Examines a blood test and the level of leukocytes: a reduced number will indicate the presence of influenza, viral hepatitis, rubella or bone marrow diseases, an increased number will indicate viral or bacterial infections such as tonsillitis, sepsis, pyelonephritis and others.

An hCG (human chorionic gonadotropin) test will confirm the presence of pregnancy and help determine whether the pregnancy is progressing as normal. After all, the level of human chorionic gonadotropin - a hormone produced by the membranes of the fetus - during the normal development of pregnancy constantly increases.

Ultrasound

An ultrasound at 8 weeks of pregnancy will show a fetus that will be similar in size to a raspberry. And at this stage, he becomes more and more similar to a little man who is already moving and moving his legs, which can also be shown by an ultrasound at 8 weeks of pregnancy. The baby’s heart beats very quickly at this stage: up to 150 beats per minute, 2 times faster than the mother’s. This rapid fetal heartbeat can be heard by recording the heart rate.

Fetus at 8 weeks of gestation

Although the unborn baby already moves from time to time, its very small size - 14-20 mm long - does not yet allow the mother to feel these movements. The baby is now very different from animal embryos, increasingly acquiring human features. Even with its “face,” the fetus becomes more and more like a little man: eyelashes appear on the eyes, the nose protrudes forward, as does the upper lip and the outer ear. The inner part is just being formed, but the neck is being outlined and the phalanges of the fingers are developing.

The formation of the main organs and systems has already been almost completed, now they will actively and rapidly develop, and some are already even functioning. So, the heart is already pumping blood throughout the small body, the valves of the aorta and pulmonary artery are working, the partitions between the atria and connections with large blood vessels are strengthening.

The nervous system continues to develop, and with it the respiratory system: the bronchial tree grows, the diaphragm emerges. The stomach and intestines are fully formed and have taken their place at this stage, and gastric juice begins to be produced. Also, the kidneys are already secreting urine, while the sweat and salivary glands are still just being formed. Bone and muscle tissue develop rapidly, taste buds are born on the tongue, and receptors appear in the nose (despite the fact that the nasal passages are still closed with mucus).

The 8th week of pregnancy is the time of birth of the optic nerve. And also - the beginning of the formation of testicles in a male fetus and ovaries and eggs in girls.

Alcohol

Since the formation of the fetus at this stage continues to be in full swing, alcohol at 8 weeks of pregnancy is completely and strictly prohibited. First of all, due to the active formation and development of the brain and nervous system of the fetus. Once in the mother’s body, alcohol penetrates the baby, affecting the cells in a damaging way: some of them are completely destroyed, some are rendered defective. Disputes regarding the permissible amount of alcohol during pregnancy are still ongoing in the scientific world. And, at the same time, there is evidence that alcohol at 8 weeks of pregnancy, even in the smallest doses, can provoke the development of the so-called fetal alcohol syndrome. Its consequences are not only a delay in the intrauterine development of the baby in all respects. But also the birth of a baby with all sorts of deviations and anomalies: mental retardation, delayed growth and weight, impaired motor skills, problems with memory, hearing and vision, deformation of the craniofacial bones (small skull, upturned nose, small and unusually shaped eyes, irregularly shaped jaw , smoothing of the upper lip).

Temperature at 8 weeks of pregnancy

In the early stages, a slightly elevated body temperature (over 37 degrees) is defined as normal, doctors reassure. And they explain this state of affairs by the increased rate of metabolic processes in the body of the expectant mother and the action of hormones (progesterone). However, in some cases, elevated temperature may also indicate hidden inflammatory processes in the body of a pregnant woman, the presence of which can be determined using tests.

But a significant increase in temperature - up to 38 degrees - requires mandatory consultation with a specialist. Prolonged fever during the 8th week of pregnancy can have an extremely negative impact on the development of the baby, causing defects in the development of the nervous system. Thus, an increased temperature in the expectant mother leads to an increase in the temperature of the fetus and its environment, which can damage the baby’s tissue. Another sad consequence of high temperature is the ability to lead to pregnancy fading. Thus, in some cases, the temperature at the 8th week of pregnancy, which remains at “high levels” for a long time, first leads to freezing and then to termination of pregnancy. Therefore, it is necessary to bring down a high temperature - after consultation with a doctor. It is advisable to first resort to ordinary rubdowns and lotions with cool water. If it doesn’t help, use antipyretics, and only with the consent of the doctor. And you should always remember: aspirin is prohibited during pregnancy, since, having the ability to change the function of blood clotting, this drug leads to bleeding.

Cold

Factors that can negatively affect the development of the fetus in the early stages of pregnancy include a cold at 8 weeks of pregnancy. So, a cold can not only disrupt the functioning of the placenta and lead to fetal hypoxia, but even end in miscarriage. Therefore, in no case should one be dismissive of a cold in the early stages, including the 8th week of pregnancy - treatment is required urgently and without delay.

Unfortunately, drug treatments are now prohibited. And colds in the 8th week of pregnancy are treated mainly using traditional methods, again, after consultation with a specialist. Moreover, it is advisable to avoid visiting the clinic, and, if possible, call a doctor at home, so as not to expose the body to an additional “attack” of pathogenic microorganisms.

A cold in the 8th week of pregnancy requires treatment, including bed rest, plenty of warm drinks, rinsing the nose and throat. Drinks include warm tea with honey, warm milk with butter, herbal infusions (linden, mint), berry fruit drinks (lingonberries, cranberries, raspberries). The nose is washed with saline solution; it is permissible to lubricate the wings of the nose with “Star” balm. Decoctions of chamomile, calendula, coltsfoot, and a solution of baking soda are useful for gargling. The preferred foods are dairy products, vegetables and fruits; it is better to avoid meat during a cold.

Nutrition

The “taboo” on meat is permissible, by the way, only in case of a cold: in normal conditions, meat must be present in the diet of a woman expecting a child. Proper nutrition in the 8th week of pregnancy plays an important role for the normal harmonious development of the fetus, as well as throughout pregnancy. And meat is very useful for the development of a baby - as a source of essential protein. True, preference should be given to boiled meat of lean varieties. But it’s better to avoid sliced ​​meat, dried meat, steaks, and cutlets. In addition to meat, proper nutrition during the 8th week of pregnancy involves eating fish and seafood. And also vegetables and fruits, which improve intestinal motility and prevent constipation; dairy products - as a source of calcium and the same protein. Nuts, dried fruits, and cereals are also useful.

At the same time, it is better to exclude foods that promote gas formation and flatulence, impair intestinal function and lead to constipation from the diet. These include legumes, fresh bread, and yeast dough products. Coffee and strong tea, which excite the nervous system, as well as chocolate and sweets, which provoke an increase in glucose levels in the body and the development of diabetes, are not recommended for pregnant women. Fried, salted and peppered, spicy, fatty foods are prohibited: they overload the stomach and liver, increase bile production and lead to heartburn. And salty foods also retain water in the body, which increases the risk of developing edema.

Sex at 8 weeks pregnant

In the early stages of pregnancy, many women, anticipating the joy of future motherhood, often worry whether the intimate life of the parents will harm the fetus developing in the womb. Is sex possible at 8 weeks pregnant? Very much so, experts reassure, however, in the absence of contraindications from the doctor. These include a complicated pregnancy, a possible threat of miscarriage, or expecting twins - in this case, you will have to wait a while with your intimate life. If the expectant mother feels normal and sexual desire remains, toxicosis does not bother the woman much, sex at 8 weeks of pregnancy is quite acceptable and safe.

It is desirable, of course, for an understanding husband to give the “reins of power” in this intimate matter to his beloved wife - the woman is now very sensitive to all the changes that occur in her body. And you shouldn’t be overzealous with sexual intercourse, practicing some unthinkable positions.

Sometimes after sex, a woman may be bothered by a pulling sensation in her stomach. If there is no risk of spontaneous abortion, there is usually no reason to worry. But it’s still worth listening to your feelings just in case.

The child's brain and nervous system have formed, and he begins to make his first movements. If you undergo an ultrasound, you will see that the baby's face can be seen very clearly. You can see the nose, mouth, eyes, lips. Small fingers are visible on the hands, which the child periodically moves.

The bone tissue has also formed, the child’s joints become mobile, and you can see that he is actively moving his arms and legs. Internal organs also develop: stomach, liver, intestines, pancreas. The conductivity of the nervous system increases, and internal organs begin to respond to the child’s activity. The baby's weight reaches 3 grams.

The woman begins to feel that the uterus has increased significantly and is about to begin to rise. Painful sensations, such as squeezing or sharp spasms, may occur. It is very good if these sensations occur, because this indicates a positive pregnancy. If pain bothers you, contact a gynecologist, he will consult you and prescribe several medications.

The gynecologist will also prescribe the following tests for you:

  • General blood analysis;
  • HIV and RW;
  • Urinalysis to determine the amount of protein;
  • Analysis for human chorionic gonadotropin.

You will be weighed and body measured. The doctor will determine the average basal temperature and make several smears. Passing a medical examination is very important; you can prevent possible diseases of the child and treat him before birth.

Signs of pregnancy at 8 weeks

At 8 weeks, pregnancy is no longer a secret for the expectant mother. By this time, many signs of pregnancy usually appear, which can manifest with different intensity in different women. Thinking about the health of the unborn child, a woman should reconsider her life routine and immediately give up all bad habits. At this stage, the influence of any negative factors on the child’s development is very great, in addition, they can worsen the condition of the expectant mother. Therefore, week 8 is included in the so-called “critical period of pregnancy.”

During the 8th week of pregnancy, the consumption of alcohol and nicotine is strictly prohibited, and heavy lifting should be avoided. In addition, you should carefully monitor your diet and make it as healthy and balanced as possible. It is not recommended to take x-rays or use anesthesia during dental treatment.

Another sign of an “interesting position” at 8 weeks of pregnancy is significant breast enlargement. Sometimes blood vessels may even be visible. This occurs under the influence of hormones to prepare the mammary glands for lactation. Therefore, it is important to choose a comfortable bra during this period. Also, under the influence of hormones, the condition of a woman’s skin often changes: sometimes it becomes more elastic and clear, has a healthier appearance, but for many, on the contrary, the skin becomes drier and more prone to flaking.

From the 8th week of pregnancy, it is better to give up high heels, do not overwork, do not put a lot of stress on your legs, and raise them higher during rest. This is associated with an increased risk of encountering varicose veins.

Pregnancy symptoms

At 8 weeks, most often all the signs of pregnancy are very clearly visible. However, it happens that the symptoms of pregnancy are not clearly expressed, which often worries the expectant mother and makes her worry about whether everything is going “according to plan.” The vast majority of women, precisely during this period, feel “all the delights” of their position in the brightest colors. The most common symptom is toxicosis. A woman in this state experiences dizziness, nausea, accompanied by vomiting. Vomiting once or twice a day is considered normal. By following certain dietary practices, you can overcome this symptom. But if the toxicosis is very severe, then it is better to consult a doctor, since frequent vomiting can have an adverse effect on the baby.

Feelings at 8 weeks

Toxicosis is not the only “companion” of a pregnant woman. The real tests at the 8th week of pregnancy are feelings of constant drowsiness, weakness, emotional instability and excessive irritability. In addition, swollen, enlarged breasts may cause some discomfort. It is better to come to terms with this manifestation, since there is still a long journey of pregnancy and lactation ahead.

The body weight of the expectant mother at 8 weeks is practically unchanged, because... The baby is still very tiny. Many women, especially those who have experienced toxicosis, experience weight loss.

Photos of bellies at 8 weeks

Pain at 8 weeks

The list of unpleasant sensations characteristic of the 8th week of pregnancy is quite extensive. In addition to banal toxicosis, which often goes away by the 12th week, a pregnant woman is faced with other not very pleasant symptoms. Irritation of the sciatic nerve due to the growing uterus can provoke pain in the pelvis and hips. You can combat this phenomenon by reducing the pressure of the uterus on the nerve; to do this, you need to lie on the opposite side.

The bladder also experiences discomfort from the enlarged uterus, which leads to increased urination. At the same time, urination itself should not be painful, and the urine should be transparent and clean. If you have such sensations, you should consult a doctor, since pain during urination may indicate cystitis or pyelonephritis.

Due to indigestion at this stage of pregnancy, heartburn may appear, which also causes certain discomfort.

Already at 8 weeks of pregnancy, another source of pain may appear - false (training) contractions. True, at this time they are still insignificant. However, if the painful sensations are quite strong, there is severe nagging pain in the lower abdomen, if they are accompanied by bloody discharge, you must immediately seek help from a doctor, it is better to immediately call an ambulance.

Bleeding

Bleeding and any spotting during the 8th week of pregnancy indicate a threat of miscarriage, and possibly a miscarriage that has already begun. The amount and time of bleeding is directly proportional to the risk of miscarriage. Bleeding that continues for several days (weeks), nagging pain in the lower abdomen, cramps similar to menstrual ones, and back pain indicate a threat of termination of pregnancy (abortion). In this state, it is very important to strictly follow all the doctor’s recommendations, maintain rest and bed rest, and protect the pregnant woman from all worries and negative factors.

If at the 8th week of pregnancy there is increased bleeding with blood clots and tissue, this indicates detachment of the fertilized egg from the wall of the uterus, and means that a miscarriage has begun. The cervix dilates and contracts, causing contractions to progress, causing the uterus to expel the fetus. Unfortunately, stopping a miscarriage in such a situation is very unlikely.

Discharge at 8 weeks

At 8 months of pregnancy, a woman has normal discharge. They should be moderate, light in color with a sour smell. Various color deviations, an increase in the amount of discharge, the appearance of mucus or pus signal an infection of the woman’s genital organs. In addition, itching, burning, and painful discharge can also be warning signs. In such cases, you simply need to consult a doctor for immediate treatment.

The danger is brown discharge, sometimes in combination with nagging pain in the abdominal area, dizziness, and weakness. Discharge of this color may indicate separation of the fertilized egg from the walls of the uterus, which leads to leakage of blood. Such symptoms should not be neglected, since in such a situation there is a high risk of miscarriage. Timely seeking medical help will increase the chances of saving the baby.

Uterus

During the normal course of pregnancy at 8 weeks, the uterus measures approximately 7-8 cm (the size of a goose egg). A doctor can determine the process of uterine growth through a gynecological examination of a pregnant woman. It is not yet possible to determine the increase in the size of the uterus through the abdominal wall. A specialist will be able to confirm the presence of pregnancy by establishing that the uterus is soft, the isthmus is softened, and the external os is closed.

Analyzes

Following the examination, the next step in establishing the indicators and health status of the expectant mother and fetus will be prescribed tests. At the 8th week of pregnancy, the list of mandatory tests includes the following tests: urine test for protein, general blood test (test of the level of red and white blood cells, determination of the Rh factor, absence of HIV), general smear, stool test, hCG test.

An increased level of protein in the urine, detected during tests, may indicate kidney disease in a pregnant woman. A general blood test will help the specialist create a more complete picture of health indicators and the progress of pregnancy. In particular, a decrease in the number of red blood cells indicates anemia or possible leukemia, and an increased level may indicate lung diseases. In turn, a low level of leukocytes, detected using a general blood test, may indicate viral hepatitis, influenza or rubella, while an increased level may indicate bacterial infections (tonsillitis, pyelonephritis, etc.)

The level of the hormone that is produced by the membranes of the fetus (chorionic gonadotropin) during normal pregnancy constantly increases. Therefore, an hCG test makes it possible to make sure that pregnancy is proceeding without deviations from the norm.

Ultrasound photo at 8 weeks

Ultrasound at 8 weeks

At 8 weeks of pregnancy, the fetus is quite small, the size of a raspberry. More and more he begins to look like a little man. He can already move and move his legs. You can monitor the baby's capabilities through ultrasound. It is also possible to record the fetal heart rate, which will allow you to hear the baby's heartbeat. During this period, the little heart beats twice as fast as mom’s: about 150 beats per minute.

8th week of pregnancy: what happens to the baby?

Despite the fact that the baby is already moving at the 8th week of pregnancy, the mother does not feel these movements, since the length of the baby from the crown to the sacrum is approximately 14-20 mm and weighs about 3 g. He is becoming more and more like a person, acquiring characteristic features . Eyelashes appear on the now “more human” face, the nose, upper lip and ears begin to emerge. The hands and developing fingers are clearly visible. The elbows and wrists begin to bend. The neck is well outlined.

The formation of the main systems and organs is completed, and a period of their active and rapid development and functioning begins. The heart already communicates with large blood vessels, and the partitions between the atria become stronger.

Active development has not spared both the nervous and respiratory systems. The diaphragm begins to emerge, and the bronchial tree grows. The stomach and intestines are already completely formed, they have taken their place. The production of gastric juice begins. The kidneys also already produce urine.

At the same time, the sweat and salivary glands are just forming. There is rapid development of bone and muscle tissue. Taste buds begin to form on the tongue, and receptors begin to form in the nose, but for now the nasal passages are closed with mucus. During this period, the optic nerve is born, the eyes are still set very wide, but the eyelids begin to appear. If a boy is born, then his testicles are now forming, and if there is a girl, then during this period the formation of ovaries and eggs occurs.

Alcohol

Science knows several different points of view about whether (and if so, how much) a pregnant woman can drink alcohol. The arguments may be different, but the indisputable fact is that when alcohol enters the mother’s body, it passes to the child. At the same time, it has a destructive effect on the baby’s cells: it destroys them or makes them defective. The formation and development of the fetus at 8 weeks is very rapid, in particular the brain and nervous system. Therefore, during this crucial period you should definitely exclude alcohol, even in the smallest doses. Failure to comply with this indication can provoke the development of fetal alcohol syndrome, which can manifest itself in intrauterine growth retardation of the child according to all criteria, in various anomalies and deviations at birth (delayed weight gain and growth, mental retardation, problems with vision, hearing and memory, changes in bone structure faces and skulls (small skull, disproportionately small eyes, distorted jaw, etc.)

Temperature at 8 weeks

A woman’s body temperature rises slightly in the initial stages of pregnancy; slightly above 37 degrees is considered normal. This situation is due to an increase in the rate of metabolic processes in the pregnant woman’s body. However, one should not lightly attribute a significant increase in body temperature solely to the presence of pregnancy. It is possible that there are inflammatory processes in the body that can be identified by conducting appropriate tests.

If the temperature rises to 38 degrees, consulting a doctor is necessary. A prolonged state of significant increase in body temperature of the expectant mother is fraught with serious defects in the development of the child. The temperature of the fetus and the environment that surrounds it, as a result, increases and leads to damage to the baby’s tissues. In addition, the consequence may even be freezing, and then termination of pregnancy. Therefore, you need to be vigilant and under no circumstances self-medicate.

Reducing your temperature should only be done after prior consultation with your doctor. It is better to first try to lower the temperature with rubdowns and compresses with cool water. If the condition does not improve, resort to an antipyretic drug, agreed with a medical specialist. Do not forget that it is strictly forbidden for pregnant women to take aspirin, because it has the property of changing blood clotting, and this leads to bleeding.

Cold at 8 weeks

You should be extra vigilant to avoid catching a cold in the early stages of pregnancy, in particular at 8 weeks. A cold can be an extremely negative factor in the development of the fetus. A cold can disrupt the functioning of the placenta and lead to fetal hypoxia, and can even lead to miscarriage. Therefore, in such a crucial period for the development of a child, you need to protect yourself, and therefore him, from a possible threat in all possible ways. Try to avoid large crowds of people, especially in the autumn-winter period, avoid contact with sick people, and dress appropriately for the weather.

If it happens that you did not protect yourself and still got sick, treatment cannot be delayed. Since commonly used medications cannot be used, you will have to resort to “grandmother’s methods.” You shouldn’t overestimate the harmlessness of traditional methods either; it’s better to discuss them with your doctor.

When fighting a cold in the 8th week of pregnancy, you need to stay in bed, drink plenty of warm drinks, and rinse your nose and throat. You can drink warm tea with honey, heated milk with added butter, linden and mint decoctions. A saline solution for rinsing the nose, you can gargle with a solution of soda or herbal decoctions (chamomile, calendula). It is advisable to include fruits and vegetables, dairy products in the diet, but it is better not to eat meat for now.

Nutrition

Nutrition plays an important role during pregnancy, including at 8 weeks. The diet of the expectant mother should be varied and balanced. By following simple nutritional rules, a woman will help her actively growing child develop normally, and will also provide her body with the necessary elements. Meat is a source of protein, which is extremely important for a child’s development. It is important that it be low-fat, steamed or boiled. Various meat variations: jerky, corned beef, etc. will not fit very well into the “correct diet”.

Fish and seafood are very useful and necessary for the balance of nutrients. Fruits and vegetables will improve intestinal motility and prevent constipation. Don’t forget about such a source of protein and calcium as dairy products. You can safely eat dried fruits, cereals, and nuts.

Products made from yeast dough, legumes, and fresh bread lead to gas formation and flatulence, and complicate intestinal function, so it is better to exclude them from the daily diet. It is not advisable to drink strong tea and coffee during pregnancy, as they stimulate the nervous system.

You shouldn’t overload your stomach and liver with the “classic forbidden four” (fried, salty, spicy, fatty). Eating them will lead to heartburn. On top of that, salty foods retain fluid in the body, which can lead to swelling.

Sex at 8 weeks

The issue of intimate life, and most importantly its safety for a growing organism, interests and even worries both future parents. Are there really 9 months of abstinence ahead? Of course not. With the exception of special contraindications from a doctor (threat of miscarriage, twin pregnancy), sex does not pose a danger to the fetus. If a woman feels well and has sexual desire, sex at 8 weeks of pregnancy is not something taboo or dangerous.

It is important that the husband, taking care of his wife’s condition, is attentive and listens to her feelings, since now the woman feels everything a little differently. You should, of course, not be overly active with sex, and be more careful in choosing positions. After contact, a woman may experience a pulling sensation in the lower abdomen.

Keep in mind

If you feel nagging pain in the lower back and lower abdomen, bleeding or spotting, consult your doctor immediately.

At the eighth week, a woman already has an almost formed little man in her stomach. Only very tiny. Now that the initial formation has passed, it only needs to grow and grow further.

  1. Treat your changed state and appearance calmly and wisely, find pleasant things in everything, enjoy life.
  2. If the doctor does not find any special problems, just watch your diet, emotional state, do exercises and take vitamins.
  3. You can have sex if you want and it’s better in certain positions.

Also viewed with this article

Author of the publication: Svetlana Sergeeva

8 obstetric week of pregnancy is unlikely to bring many positive emotions for the mother. This week is considered the most unpleasant for a woman. At this time, the body adapts to its new state.

This week, a woman may be accompanied by severe toxicosis (up to 10 times a day), lower back pain, weakness and malaise. Meanwhile, the baby is experiencing a developmental leap.

Fetal size and development at 8 weeks of gestation

During the 8th week the embryo actively growing and developing. Outwardly, he does not yet look like a little man. His body is elongated, and his proportions are far from ideal.

Baby size can be compared to the size of a strawberry or grape (about 8-12 mm). And it already weighs 2-3 grams. But, despite such small sizes, the embryo’s body becomes every minute more and more like a small person.

How does the fetus change at this stage?

  • gills and tail are rejected;
  • long fingers appear, connected by a membranous film;
  • The face develops: nostrils, eyes, and upper lip are formed. The face takes on a more familiar appearance;
  • the formation of the eyelids is completed;
  • the jaws acquire a normal shape;
  • the inner ear and auricles are formed;
  • the child's heart develops;
  • the bronchi finish their formation;
  • The reproductive system is formed. In girls, the ovaries begin to develop, and in boys, the first signs of testicles appear;
  • development of sweat glands begins;
  • bone tissue becomes denser.

At 8 weeks in the embryo all the organs are already there, but is still in its infancy. For this reason, starting from this period, official medicine stops calling the child an embryo and assigns it the proud title of a fetus.

At the 8th obstetric week, the baby is in amniotic fluid. He took a comfortable position in which he would spend the remaining time in his mother’s belly. In the fetus intrauterine reflexes appear. He is already moving his arms and legs. Although this can rather be called involuntary twitching. A lot of free space in the uterus gives the baby room for swimming, somersaults and rollovers.

What happens to mom at 8 weeks

The uterus is actively growing during this period of time and reaches the size of an average orange. But if you look at the belly of a pregnant woman at 8 weeks, no one will even suspect that the woman is expecting a child. By the 8th week, the future, and many even drop it if they are tormented by toxicosis. Above you can see in the photo what mothers' bellies look like at 8 weeks of pregnancy.

Unpleasant sensations, pain and weakness are characteristic features of the 8th week. Due to the active enlargement of the uterus in the abdomen, there may be sharp spasms which lead to muscle strain.

Weakness and malaise along with vomiting - constant companions for 8 weeks. Normally, nausea can occur about 2-3 times a day; if it occurs more often, it is better to consult a doctor. Too much toxicosis can adversely affect the development of the fetus.

Strongly breasts become larger and heavier. It becomes more sensitive and veins may appear on it. Although there is no need to think about changing clothes yet, it is worth worrying about buying a new bra. Also, some mothers experience.

Despite the fact that during this period the fetus leads an active life in the mother’s womb, it is still too early to talk about its movements. No matter how hard the mother tries to listen to her body, she will not feel the baby’s movements.

Often appears at this time phlebeurysm. If a woman has a tendency to, then, most likely, at the 8th week of pregnancy it will make itself felt, as the load on the legs increases.

A woman may experience pain in the pelvis and hips. This is caused by the growing uterus irritating the sciatic nerve. Choosing a comfortable body position will help you get rid of these unpleasant sensations. If the pain radiates to the left side, it is better to lie on the right. And vice versa.

A growing uterus at 8 weeks can also cause frequent urination. This process should not cause any discomfort or pain. If pain and burning occur when visiting the toilet, you should consult a specialist. Unpleasant sensations can be caused by pyelonephritis.

Due to indigestion, it can make itself felt heartburn.

Normal discharge at the 8th week of pregnancy is uniform in consistency, has a whitish color and a faint sour-milk odor. Their number may increase slightly due to the growing level of hormones in a woman’s body.

Changes in color, odor, and the appearance of copious discharge, pus, and mucus indicate an infection of the genitourinary system. These symptoms may be accompanied by itching, burning and pain. Necessary consult a gynecologist to get rid of this problem. Untreated infections, in addition to discomfort for the woman, pose a danger to the fetus. You can find out more about discharge in early pregnancy.

Brown or bloody discharge should be a serious concern. Especially if they are accompanied by severe pain. In such situation - consult a doctor immediately!

Tests, examinations and ultrasound in the 8th week of pregnancy


Eighth obstetric week of pregnancy - registration time to the antenatal clinic. During the appointment, the gynecologist will examine the woman on the chair. Check the condition of the uterus and cervix. And based on the examination, he will give a conclusion about the presence of pregnancy.

Afterwards, the obstetrician will measure the pressure, as well as the woman’s weight and volume. Then he will give directions to a number of mandatory tests:

In addition to directing tests, the obstetrician will conduct a small survey. A woman must be prepared to answer a number of questions. For example:

  • date of last menstruation;
  • cycle length;
  • the presence of bad habits in a woman and her husband;
  • what kind of pregnancy was there and whether there were any miscarriages or abortions;
  • whether there are hereditary diseases in the family;
  • whether the woman and husband had serious illnesses.

Pregnancy is not the best time to start playing sports, or for heavy physical activity. You need to exercise until you break into a light sweat.

Some people are concerned about the issue during pregnancy. Many people believe that after this event occurs, you can forget about sex with your beloved man for 9 months. But that's not true.

If there is no threat of termination of pregnancy or other contraindications, and there is also desire and good health, then intimate intimacy is not only not contraindicated, but also useful.

True, you shouldn’t be overly active during this period. Choose comfortable positions and listen to your body. Excessive zeal in this process can lead to miscarriage.

Week 8 is a difficult time for a mother and her baby. Now it’s worth taking care of yourself and being positive. Our recommendations for the expectant mother will help you with this:

  1. Try to stay calm, sleep more and walk in the fresh air.
  2. Eliminate alcohol and try to get rid of bad habits.
  3. Avoid heels.
  4. Register with the LCD and follow all recommendations of the obstetrician-gynecologist.
  5. Eat right.
  6. If you need to take medications, do not self-medicate.
  7. Consult a specialist who will select medications approved for pregnant women.
  8. Exercise.

Video about 8 weeks of pregnancy

You can find out what exercises are useful for the expectant mother in the first trimester from this video guide. The obstetrician-gynecologist will give his recommendations regarding physical activity during pregnancy. He will tell you what is best for already trained women and those who showed no interest in sports before conception. And the fitness center instructor will show exercises for expectant mothers.

Toxicosis at 8 weeks is very common. You can find a lot of advice on the Internet on how to deal with morning sickness. But everyone’s body is different, and therefore there are simply no universal methods. Tell me, please, How did you deal with the manifestations of toxicosis?. Maybe this will help other moms.

The 8th week of pregnancy has begun, the baby’s development continues to gain momentum. Expectant mothers are becoming more and more attentive to their health and behavior

The 8th week of pregnancy has begun, the baby’s development continues to gain momentum. Expectant mothers are becoming more and more attentive to their health and their behavior. Because this period is the first critical period in the mother's pregnancy and fetal development. It is very important to prevent even minor diseases that can cause irreversible consequences, because Almost all major systems are laid down and begin their development during this period.

8 weeks, how many months is that? 8 weeks is exactly , the first trimester continues.

What happens to the baby at 8 weeks?

The length of the growing fetus is approximately 14-20 mm, and its weight can reach only 3 grams.

As mentioned above, week 8 is the fetus in the first trimester of pregnancy. During this period, the process of ontogenesis occurs - a series of successive stages of development, varying in speed and replacing each other. So, during critical periods of development, on the one hand, the fetus is less resistant and is especially sensitive to various external influences. On the other hand, these periods are characterized by the maximum speed of its development.

The critical period of the first trimester affects the entire fetal body as a whole, and in later stages it will only affect the development of individual internal organs. Unfavorable factors that can slow down or stop the development of the fetus include: hereditary (genetic and chromosomal abnormalities) and environmental pathological factors (ionizing and ultraviolet radiation, food additives, pesticides, alcohol, nicotine, drugs, viruses, infections, etc. ). The consequences of exposure to these factors can be: miscarriages, fetal death, the birth of children with developmental defects of varying degrees and forms of severity. The neofetal or embryofetal period continues (end of 5–8 weeks of pregnancy from conception).

This period is the initial stage of development and further formation of the placenta. The correct formation of the placenta and placental blood circulation determines the further intensity of fetal development. Through the placenta, gas exchange and nutrition of the growing organism will be carried out. Its functions will include the production of hormones and enzymes, as well as the selective transport of nutrients and metabolic intermediates. While the nutrition of the embryo - the fetus continues to come from the yolk sac.

Ultrasound at 8 weeks of pregnancy. Ultrasound at 8 weeks of pregnancy is a mandatory procedure. On it, the doctor determines the mobility of the fetus, its heartbeat, and blood oxygen saturation. This research method will provide information about whether there is any pathology in the organ formation or not. You should not neglect it, as it will not bring any harm to you and your baby. But it can protect.

What happens to a pregnant woman’s body at 8 weeks?

At the 8th week of pregnancy, a huge hormonal surge occurs as a result of the active formation of the genitourinary system in the fetus. A hormonal storm causes noticeable changes in the physiological state of a pregnant woman. If the expectant mother is expecting a boy, then male hormones appear in her body. However, it is worth saying that the synthesis of sex hormones is not very different in both the female and male bodies. Thus, substances designed to maintain pregnancy - gestagens - are first formed from cholesterol. Then the formation of androgens (male hormones) occurs, after which female growth and acquisition hormones - estrogens - are formed.

It is important to know that these substances begin to rapidly and simultaneously enter the blood of the pregnant woman. Therefore, the symptoms of pregnancy only intensify: toxicosis rages. Male hormones can provoke other unpleasant changes: severe acne appears on the skin, vellus hair darkens and becomes coarser, so it seems that a pregnant woman has a mustache and even a beard. Now the embryo is actively forming bones. Therefore, calcium is “removed” from the mother’s body in large quantities. If you do not replenish the reserves of this element, then there is a high risk of venous dilatation of the veins. After all, calcium is removed from the venous vessels. Now swollen veins and nodules may appear on the legs, and swelling is likely.

The belly is not yet visible at 8 weeks of pregnancy. Most often, an enlargement of the tummy, barely noticeable, is not a sign of an enlarged uterus with a fetus inside, but the consequences of altered bowel function. You can see what the tummy looks like at this stage in the photo.

The uterus with the fetus inside is also growing rapidly now. It is already the size of an apple. But the growth of this organ often causes discomfort: spasms, nagging pain in the back and lower abdomen. Currently, my breasts are enlarged. At this stage, the mammary glands are already preparing for breastfeeding. The fatty tissue in the breast is replaced by glandular tissue. It often feels like heaviness. The nipple areolas darken, nodules (sweat glands) appear, and a vascular pattern is visible.

By the way, despite the fact that your pregnancy has just begun, you can already determine the gender of your unborn child. We talked about reliable methods.

Diagnosis and causes of ectopic pregnancy at 8 weeks

Ectopic pregnancy is the settling and development of the fertilized egg outside the uterus. This is a rare and complicated form of pregnancy that poses a great danger to the life of a pregnant woman. Ectopic pregnancy, depending on the place of attachment of the egg, can be abdominal, ovarian or tubal.