At this time, you might have that longed-for pregnancy glow! But unfortunately, this ‘glow’ doesn’t visit all pregnant women; for instance, others experience acne, as it is a side effect you can’t do much about as you progress further in your pregnancy journey.

Artist Holly Priddis

How your baby is growing when 8 Weeks Pregnant?

Clearly, your embryo is now about 1.2cm long, with its eyes forming under a layer of skin and its nose starting to show. Their little webbed fingers begin to appear, and their tail (the developing lower part of the spine) reduce. Moreover, your baby’s organs continue to grow, but it is far too early to determine whether you’re having a boy or a girl.

What You May Feel

By Week 8 of pregnancy, you may notice that you need to go to the toilet more often. Evidently, your uterus is the size of a tennis ball and is putting pressure on your bladder. Even though your uterus is still small, you may find that clothing is getting tight across your tummy.

Then, your midwife or doctor may recommend a dating ultrasound. You may feel a mixture of excitement and nervousness about your upcoming scan, which is typical. For this reason, ask your partner or a close friend/relative to come along for support, as it’s a chance to gather essential information about your baby. Indeed, it is always helpful having an extra pair of ears to listen to (and maybe take notes).

At the dating scan, the sonographer will do things such as:

• Measure the size of the embryo
• Give you an estimated due date
• Look for the presence of a heartbeat
• Determine how many babies you are carrying
• Check your ovaries
• Make sure everything looks healthy and normal

Tips for when you are 8 Weeks Pregnant

Undoubtedly, when preparing for your scan, it helps if you have a full bladder before you go, as it allows the sonographer to see the embryo more clearly. Also, in many cases, a transvaginal (internal) ultrasound gives a clearer picture. If you have any questions, write them down. The sonographer may be able to answer them, but if not, take them to your next midwifery or doctor’s appointment.

Page published on 10th January 2022