8 Weeks Pregnant

Baby’s Development

You’ve reached the end of the embryonic period — your baby is now officially a fetus, measuring about 1.6 to 2.0 centimeters (the size of a raspberry) and weighing around 1 gram [1]. The fingers and toes are now distinct, the webbing is gone, and the tail has disappeared as the trunk elongates. The face is becoming recognizably human: the nose and upper lip are forming, the eyelids are fused shut, the ears sit low on the head, and the retina is pigmented. The brain is now connecting to facial muscles, making the first facial expressions possible. The lungs are branching extensively into the bronchial tree, and the kidneys are producing urine (fetal urine will become amniotic fluid by around week 12). External genitals are beginning to differentiate, though they’ll remain ambiguous on ultrasound until weeks 12 to 14. Touch receptors are forming around the mouth — the lips and nose — marking the earliest sensory development. Spontaneous movements have begun, though you won’t feel them yet [2].

Body Changes

Your uterus is now about the size of a lime and may be felt just above the pubic bone on an abdominal exam, especially if you’re thin. You might go up half a cup to a full cup in bra size, and your waistline is beginning to thicken. Visible veins may appear on your breasts and legs. You could develop nasal congestion — rhinitis of pregnancy — as estrogen increases blood flow to your mucous membranes. Your gums may bleed (pregnancy gingivitis), and your skin may show the “pregnancy glow” from increased oil and blood flow, or you may experience breakouts instead [2].

Tips for Week 8

• Your first prenatal visit typically happens now — expect a comprehensive intake that includes a full history, exam, and blood work (CBC, blood type and Rh, antibody screen, Rubella, Hepatitis B, HIV, syphilis, and possibly varicella, thyroid, vitamin D, and a urine culture) [1].
• Discuss genetic screening options with your provider: NIPT (available from 10 weeks), NT scan (weeks 11 to 14), and carrier screening if you haven’t done it. NIPT checks for trisomies 21, 18, and 13 plus sex chromosome conditions through a maternal blood draw [3].
• Do a lifestyle audit — review every product you use (skin, hair, cleaning) for retinoids, salicylic acid above 2 percent, hydroquinone, formaldehyde, and BPA, and switch to pregnancy-safe alternatives.
• Address the half marathon if one falls around week 10 or 11. Clear it with your OB: most runners can complete 13.1 miles with careful pacing, hydration, cool weather, and no PR attempts.

Things To Do (Checklist)

• Attend first full prenatal visit (1-2 hrs typical)
• Complete intake blood work
• Discuss genetic screening (NIPT) timing
• Swap retinoids/salicylic acid for azelaic acid/glycolic
• Confirm half marathon plan with OB

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: I’m not showing — is baby OK? A: Completely normal. In a first pregnancy, a visible bump typically appears between 14 and 20 weeks. Body shape, muscle tone, and baby’s position all affect when you show. Growth is measured at your next ultrasound, not by appearance [2].

Q: Is spotting normal after sex? A: Yes — one to two days of pink or brown spotting is common due to cervical friability from increased blood flow. Call your provider if the bleeding is painful, heavy, or bright red [1].

Q: When is the right time to announce? A: Medically, 24 to 72 hours after your first ultrasound confirms viability. Socially, whenever feels right to you. The “12-week rule” is a cultural convention, not a medical one [3].

Sources

1. ACOG — How Your Fetus Grows During Pregnancy
2. Mayo Clinic — 8 Weeks Pregnant
3. Expecting Better — Emily Oster (Chapters 5-6: Genetic Testing & First Trimester Decisions)