Baby’s Development and Pregnancy Symptoms at 8 Weeks

Your Baby at 8 Weeks: A Tiny Miracle in Motion

Right now, your baby is about the size of a raspberry—small, but growing at an astonishing rate! One of the most exciting milestones this week? Your little one is officially moving! These early twitches and stretches may not be strong enough for you to feel yet, but they are happening inside your womb.

Key Developmental Changes This Week

✔ Tiny fingers and toes are forming! Your baby’s hands and feet, which started as little paddle-like shapes, are now sprouting webbed fingers and toes. The separation between them will become clearer in the coming weeks.

✔ The nervous system is expanding. A complex network of nerves is spreading throughout your baby’s body, connecting to muscles and organs, including the eyes and ears. These connections are essential for movement and sensory development.

✔ Breathing preparations are underway. Tiny air passages are forming, linking your baby’s throat to their developing lungs. This is a big step toward the moment your baby will take their first breath outside the womb.

✔ Facial features are taking shape. The outer ears are forming, and your baby’s eyes are darkening as pigmented cells develop. Although their eyelids are still fused shut, the eyes are becoming more defined.

✔ Baby’s heart is beating strong. By now, your baby’s heart is fully formed with four chambers and is beating at an incredible rate—about 150 to 170 beats per minute!

How Your Body is Changing at 8 Weeks Pregnant

Even though you may not be showing yet, your body is working overtime to support your baby’s growth. Many of the symptoms you’re experiencing are linked to rising hormone levels—here's what to expect this week.

Pregnancy Symptoms at 8 Weeks

🔹 Breast changes: Your breasts are growing and may feel sore, heavy, or tender. Visible veins might start to appear as blood flow increases. A supportive maternity bra can provide much-needed comfort.

🔹 Increased vaginal discharge: You may notice more white or milky discharge (called leukorrhea). This is completely normal and helps protect against infections. However, if it has a strong odor or unusual color, consult your doctor.

🔹 Bloating and gas: Hormonal shifts can slow digestion, making you feel bloated or gassy. Drinking plenty of water and eating fiber-rich foods may help.

🔹 Heightened sense of smell: Everyday scents—coffee, perfume, or even your partner’s shampoo—might suddenly feel overpowering. This sensitivity is linked to pregnancy hormones and may contribute to nausea.

🔹 Morning sickness: Nausea and vomiting peak around this time for many women. Eating small, frequent meals and staying hydrated can help. If you’re struggling to keep food or fluids down, talk to your doctor about possible treatments.

🔹 Weird pregnancy dreams: Vivid, strange dreams are common! Many women report intense or bizarre dreams about babies, family, or even unexpected adventures. These are likely linked to hormonal changes and heightened emotions.

🔹 Headaches and fatigue: Pregnancy-related headaches can stem from hormonal fluctuations, dehydration, or low blood sugar. Resting, drinking water, and avoiding stress may help. If headaches persist, consult your healthcare provider before taking any medication.

What to Do This Week

✔ Start documenting your pregnancy. Whether it’s a photo journal, a pregnancy app, or a handwritten diary, tracking your journey can be a beautiful keepsake for the future.

✔ Prioritize sleep. Exhaustion is normal in early pregnancy. Try to go to bed earlier, use pregnancy pillows for comfort, and create a relaxing nighttime routine.

✔ Take care of your skin. Hormonal changes can cause pigmentation issues like melasma (dark patches on the skin). Wearing sunscreen daily can help prevent this «pregnancy mask.»

✔ Think about maternity wear. Even if your bump isn’t visible yet, bloating might make your regular clothes feel snug. A few stretchy, comfy pieces can make a big difference.

✔ Monitor your mental health. Pregnancy hormones can bring emotional ups and downs. If you’re feeling persistently anxious or down for more than two weeks, talk to your doctor about support options.