So what is happening at 8 weeks pregnant? Are the symptoms you’re experiencing normal?

Today we’ll discuss what to expect from 8 weeks pregnant and everything mother and baby experience during this time. This pregnancy week is also the second month of your pregnancy which means you only have seven months to go.

The first trimester is often described as one of the toughest times as pregnancy hormones surge through your body. Early pregnancy can also be difficult as most women wait till early pregnancy is over to share their exciting news with friends and family.

We love to provide expectant parents with pregnancy week updates so you can feel connected to your baby and baby development in the womb

What’s Happening at 8 weeks Pregnant

8 Weeks Pregnancy Symptoms

8 weeks pregnant symptoms: it’s common to experience nausea, vomiting and some people even experience brown spotting during this time. You may also have mood swings and low energy levels which can be a challenge if you already have young children at home.

Many pregnant women often experience the common pregnancy symptoms below but if you are experiencing minimal symptoms at the moment do not panic, lack of symptoms doesn’t always mean there is a problem and you may just be one of the lucky ones. Some pregnant women have no symptoms and a completely healthy pregnancy so do not worry if this is you.

Here are some of the most common symptoms you may experience in the early stages of pregnancy and the first trimester;

Morning Sickness

You may experience a lot of nausea and vomiting, or just feel sick for no reason at all, this is called morning sickness. Morning sickness doesn’t just happen in the morning as many people think, some people are worse in the evening time. It also doesn’t usually start until week 6 of pregnancy and in some rare cases it can last the entire pregnancy.

Fatigue

You may be feeling more tired now as your body adjusts to how hard it needs to work for your growing baby.

Heightened Sense of smell

Some people find that the smell of certain things makes them feel sick.

Increased Appetite

For some of you, you might be feeling hungrier than usual this is also completely normal.

Increased vaginal discharge

you may notice you are a little more “wet” down below, this is completely normal.

Sore Breasts

Hormonal changes can increase your breast sensitivity.

Light headed

Due to an increase in blood volume you may experience feeling faint. This is completely normal.

Frequent Urination

Needing to pee more than usual, this is another common symptom during pregnancy.

Baby Development at 8 weeks Pregnant

You are in the first trimester and at 8 weeks pregnant, your baby is about the size of a rasberry. Their heart has usually started beating and the pregnancy hormones are in full swing by this week.

Your Baby’s development

At 8 weeks pregnant your babies upper lip and lower lip, nose and eyelids are forming and your little bundle is growing at a rate of 1 mm a day. You baby’s growth may not feel like much at the moment but you will see a huge difference in the next few weeks.

Your babies heart is beating at the amazing rate of 150-170 bpm, that is around twice as fast as yours.

Your little ones limbs (your babies arms are moving and twitching but you won’t feel kicks for a few weeks yet.

In the UK you only have about a month to wait for your first ultrasound scan.

8 weeks pregnancy symptoms with twins

Some women find out they’re carrying more than one baby at their first scan, many women with strong pregnancy symptoms may convince themselves they are carrying twins. But strong pregnancy symptoms at 8 weeks pregnant doesn’t always mean twins.

If you’re carrying more than one baby, your symptoms can be different from those of someone who has only conceived one child. You can experience the same pregnancy signs as any other woman but they may come on stronger and earlier – which might make them easier to spot!

What to expect from an ultrasound scan at 8 weeks pregnant?

The ultrasound technician will use a probe to scan your abdomen or they may inset a camera in to your vagina to check the baby, this is painless and completely safe for your baby.

At this point the scan would usually show a beating heart but your little embryo would not look like a big bouncing baby just yet.

You can find your nearest private pregnancy scan clinic here.

Brown Spotting at 8 Weeks Pregnant

Brown spotting at 8 weeks pregnant: if you see blood on your underwear or when wiping after going to the bathroom this is called “brown spotting”. Brown spotting is common during the first trimester. It’s a result of hormonal changes. It can happen right tje way through your pregnancy and is usually harmless unless there are other signs such as cramps or pain with urination. We do recommend that you seek professional medical advice.

Miscarriage symptoms at 8 Weeks Pregnant?

Some of these might be: bleeding, vaginal discharge or spotting, cramps and lower back pain. If you experience any of these tell your doctor as soon as possible because they could signify a potential issue with an early pregnancy. This is a great website to help build your confidence daily about miscarriage statistics if you are carrying your rainbow baby.

Midwife Appointment

Your first midwife appointment will usually be at around 8 weeks.

How to stay healthy during pregnancy

Maintain a healthy balanced diet, eat plenty of fresh fruit, stay hydrated and drink plenty of water where possibble and if you are feeling up to it get some exercise.

If you have nausea or are feeling faint then the best thing to do is rest and eat regular small meals. Take vitamin supplements such as folic acid and iron for prevention of birth defects.

How much weight gain will i have during pregnancy?

Your doctor will give you advice on what’s right for your body but in general it’s recommended that women put on 28-40 pounds by the time they give birth.