Medically reviewed by Dr Ayanthi Gunasekera, a consultant obstetrician and gynaecologist & medical information lead at London Gynaecology.
At 8 weeks pregnant, your baby is going through some exciting changes, like starting to develop their eye colour! As your pregnancy moves along, you might experience various symptoms and changes in your body.
In this guide, we’ll break down what’s happening with your body, including the common symptoms you might face and how to handle them. We’ll also share some handy self-care tips to keep you feeling good. Plus, we’ll update you on the latest developments in your baby’s growth, from their new features to how they’re progressing inside your belly.
What's 8 weeks pregnant in months?
At 8 weeks, you’re in your second month of pregnancy. Just 7 more months to go!
How big is my baby at 8 weeks?
"At 8 weeks, your baby is about 16 mm long. That is about the size of a raspberry," says Dr Ayanthi Gunasekera, consultant obstetrician and gynaecologist.
Baby development at 8 weeks pregnant
Growth and limb development
Your little embryo is growing rapidly, at a rate of about 1mm per day. This week, significant progress is being made in developing the arms and legs, with more definition appearing around where the knees, elbows, wrists, and ankles will eventually be.
Organ formation
"Eight weeks into your pregnancy, your baby’s major organs and systems are forming, including the heart, brain, and spinal cord," says Dr Ayanthi. The baby’s heart is now beating and can often be detected via ultrasound, which is a reassuring sign of development.
Facial features
"Small swellings are beginning to outline the future shape of your baby's ears, and their eyes are becoming more noticeable. The trunk and neck are also starting to straighten out, giving your baby a more defined shape," says Dr Ayanthi
Placenta development
Your placenta is preparing to take over vital functions. It’s forming ‘chorionic villi,’ tiny branches that help it attach to the uterine wall. This setup will allow your blood supply to nourish your baby and remove waste products in the coming months.
Baby’s appearance
This week, your baby is starting to look more like a tiny human. They now have a small upper lip, a nose, and tiny eyelids. Their legs are lengthening, and their fingers and toes are beginning to form.
Your body at 8 weeks pregnant
Increased blood volume
"Your blood volume is increasing to support the growing pregnancy, which may result in changes in blood pressure," says Dr Ayanthi. This rise in blood volume, combined with pregnancy hormones, can lead to headaches. Remember to stay hydrated and rest when possible.
Hormonal effects on blood pressure
Progesterone, a key hormone during pregnancy, helps by relaxing the tissues in your heart and blood vessels. This process helps keep your blood pressure in check. However, hormonal changes can also impact digestion, causing symptoms like nausea and changes in appetite.
Digestive system changes
It’s normal to experience constipation as your digestive system relaxes, which might lead to piles. If you're experiencing discomfort, it’s important to consult your doctor about any health concerns.
Growing uterus and bloating
Your uterus has expanded, and you might notice a slight bump, especially when your belly is bloated. Your uterus, which is usually the size of your fist, has grown to the size of a grapefruit. "The growing uterus can exert pressure on the bladder, leading to increased frequency of urination," says Dr Ayanthi.
8 weeks pregnant symptoms
It is around 8 weeks pregnant you might start noticing the first symptoms of pregnancy. These could include:
Morning sickness
If you haven't had it already, there's still a chance morning sickness might start this month. Morning sickness is extremely common in pregnancy, but sometimes you can experience these symptoms all day! Although we’re not exactly sure what causes that queasy feeling, it’s thought to be down to those pregnancy hormones you’re learning to live with.
Remember to try and eat little and often, and rest assured even if you are being sick, your baby feels just fine.
Also, it does tend to ease off around weeks 12-14, so not too long to go! That said, if you’re in the unlucky 1% of women who suffer from extreme vomiting and sickness, also known as hyperemesis gravidarum (the condition Kate Middleton suffered with during both her pregnancies) it’s not something to ignore.
If you’re unable to eat or drink anything, your lips and mouth are dry and your urine is dark, contact your GP immediately.
Fatigue
Yep, it’s been on this list for the past few weeks, but pregnancy fatigue is still a super common symptom. Remember, to cut your body some slack and listen to it - after all, you are growing a baby!
Discharge
Another one that is caused by the pregnancy hormone estrogen. This white milky discharge (medically referred to as leukorrhea) protects that important part of your body from infection, by maintaining a healthy balance of bacteria, so don’t worry about it.
Bloating, gas and constipation
You might begin to feel changes in your belly at this stage, with many women experiencing bloating, gas and the dreaded constipation. To help your food digest quicker, make sure you're eating plenty of fibre and be sure to relax when you eat.
Cravings
You'll have probably heard of the different food cravings women can experience during pregnancy, but if you're finding you're craving strange substances such as clay, this could be a sign of iron deficiency and you should speak to your GP.
Frequent urination
Yep, you may still find yourself having to run out of the room mid-conversation as you need to pee. It’s due to your uterus expanding, which puts extra pressure on your bladder. This symptom will continue to come and go throughout your pregnancy.
Looking after you at 8 weeks pregnant
Avoid smoking, alcohol, and recreational drugs
"These can have harmful effects on your developing baby. You should also discuss any prescription or over-the-counter medications with your healthcare provider," says Dr Ayanthi.
Invest in a supportive bra
Your breasts are going to feel a lot heavier from now on, so invest in a well-fitted maternity bra that will support you properly.
Drink plenty of water
Staying hydrated is important, especially if you don't fancy eating. Try adding a bit of lemon or mint flavouring to your water, or try sparkling water.
Stock on healthy foods
Spend some time in the fruit aisle! Fruits are packed with the vitamins and nutrients your baby needs and help keep you regular.
"Maintain a balanced diet. Focus on foods rich in vitamins, minerals, and nutrients," says Ayanthi. You want to stock up on all the healthy foods you need for pregnancy plus any prenatal vitamins to give yourself a healthy start to your pregnancy journey.
Start doing your squats
Another example of something we know we should be doing anyway but not only do squats help tone your thighs, but they can also help during labour! What are you waiting for?
Other things to consider at 8 weeks pregnant
Announcement plans
You and your partner may want to start planning how you'll announce your pregnancy to your friends and family.
Book a dentist appointment
"Hormonal changes during pregnancy can affect oral health, so it's important to maintain good dental hygiene," says Dr Ayanthi. So now is a good time to check in with your dentist to make sure you keep your teeth and gums in tip-top condition.
Read up on paternity and maternity pay
It's good to be fully aware of what you're entitled to, as well as other benefits. A Mat B1 form is what you will need to apply for your leave but you won't get this until around 20 weeks.
What to speak to your doctor about at 8 weeks pregnant
"You should pay attention to any unusual symptoms or signs of complications, such as severe abdominal pain, heavy bleeding, or severe nausea and vomiting," says Dr Ayanthi. "Contact your doctor if you have concerns."
Scans and appointments at 8 weeks pregnant
If you experience any bleeding or if you've previously had a miscarriage or ectopic pregnancy, you may be offered an 8-week scan ahead of the usual first scan at 12 weeks. Alternatively, if you feel like something isn't quite right and it's causing anxiety, you can book one privately. You may even be lucky enough to hear your baby's heartbeat!
About the expert
Dr Ayanthi Gunasekera is a senior obstetrics and gynaecology (O&G) trainee (ST7) in North and East London at Barnet and Chase farm Hospitals NHS Trust. She has a keen interest in medical education and has a PG certificate in Medical Education.
Ayanthi has written patient information leaflets and guidelines and joins the London Gynaecology team as Medical Information Lead. In her spare time, she enjoys painting, gardening, knitting and crafting with her two young children.
About the author
Emily Gilbert is the Features & Reviews Editor for Mother&Baby and has written for the website and previously the magazine for seven years. Emily writes about everything from the top baby products to pregnancy, fertility and maternal mental health. Specialising in product reviews, Emily is the first to know about all the exciting new releases in the parenting industry.