8 Weeks pregnant: Symptoms, growth & baby’s development

An illustration of a uterus and a fetus the size of a kidney been representing 8 weeks pregnant.
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Created with Natasha Lowe Osho, MD, Obstetrician-Gynecologist, USA

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In a nutshell

At 8 weeks pregnant, your baby’s features are forming, and the brain is rapidly developing. You may experience stronger pregnancy symptoms, such as nausea and fatigue, as your body continues to support the early stages of fetal growth.

Congratulations, you’re 8 weeks pregnant! This week is packed with exciting developments as your baby begins to resemble a tiny human. Even though they’re still no bigger than a raspberry, major milestones are happening, including brain growth and the first subtle movements. 

Whether you’re braving morning sickness or marveling at your baby’s progress, week 8 is a dynamic and memorable stage on your journey to parenthood. Read on to discover all the changes, tips, and insights that can help you and your growing baby thrive during this incredible time.

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8-week pregnancy symptoms

Week 8 brings many common pregnancy symptoms as hormone levels rise to support baby’s growth. Here’s what you might experience:

  • Morning sickness: Nausea may be more frequent due to rising hCG levels, affecting both mornings and other times of the day.
  • Extreme fatigue: The body is working hard to nurture the developing baby, leading to heightened fatigue.
  • Breast changes: Breasts may feel tender and swollen as they prepare for future breastfeeding.
  • Frequent urination: Increased blood volume puts more pressure on the kidneys, causing more trips to the bathroom.
  • Bloating and cramping: Hormonal changes may cause digestive symptoms and mild cramps as the uterus expands.

👉Find out more: Tiny heartbeats and big changes: What to expect at 7 weeks pregnant

Your body at 8 weeks pregnant

At week 8, your body is undergoing several internal changes to support the developing embryo. Blood volume continues to increase to deliver oxygen and nutrients to your baby, which can contribute to fatigue and frequent urination. Hormone levels peak around this time, supporting fetal growth but also intensifying pregnancy symptoms. Make rest, hydration, and a balanced diet a priority to support your body’s increased demands.

8-week pregnant belly

Most women won’t notice a visible bump yet at 8 weeks, but some may feel a sense of fullness or bloating due to hormone-related fluid retention. The uterus is growing, though it remains within the pelvis for now.

Baby development at 8 weeks pregnancy

By week 8, your baby has progressed from an embryo to a developing fetus. Key features are beginning to form, including the nose, upper lip, and eyelids. Fingers and toes are taking shape, and small movements may begin, though they’re still too tiny for you to feel. The baby’s brain is growing rapidly, and neural connections are starting to form.

8-week baby size

At 8 weeks, your baby’s size is about 1/2 to 3/4 of an inch long, like a kidney bean. Although still very small, rapid growth is happening each day as organs and body structures develop.

8-week ultrasound

An 8-week ultrasound can show the developing fetus, along with the gestational and yolk sacs. If you have an 8-week ultrasound 3D scan, you may be able to see the shape of the baby more clearly, including tiny limb buds. In many cases, a heartbeat may be visible on the ultrasound, which is a key milestone for fetal health.

Real life 8-week fetus

In real life, an 8-week fetus is still small but has all the basic building blocks of a human form. The arms and legs are growing, and small facial features are beginning to emerge. Even though the fetus is still tiny, major development is happening rapidly.

👉Find out more:

Exploring week 9: What’s happening with your baby and what symptoms you might feel

Reaching double digits: What to expect at 10 weeks pregnant

Health tips and self-care at 8 weeks pregnant

  • Eat small, frequent meals: Nausea may make it hard to eat large meals, so try small, balanced snacks throughout the day to keep up your energy.
  • Stay hydrated: Hydration is crucial to support increased blood volume, manage fatigue, and ease some digestive symptoms.
  • Take prenatal vitamins: Continue with prenatal vitamins to support baby’s development, especially neural development.
  • Get enough rest: Fatigue is common, so allow yourself extra rest, and listen to your body’s need for sleep and downtime.
Track your pregnancy with ease!

With Femia, you will get personalized insights every step of the way

Try Femia now

Questions from the Femia community

  • How much weight should I gain?

    Weight gain in the first trimester is generally minimal, around 1-4 pounds, as the baby is still small. Consult your healthcare provider for guidance based on your starting weight.

  • What sport routine should I have in early pregnancy?

    Low-impact exercises like walking, prenatal yoga, and swimming are generally safe. Always check with your provider to tailor exercise to your body’s needs.

  • What foods should I avoid at 8 weeks pregnant?

    Avoid raw fish, high-mercury fish, unpasteurized dairy, deli meats, and undercooked meat to reduce risks for you and your baby.

The bottom line

At 8 weeks pregnant, your baby is developing rapidly, with facial features, limbs, and the brain growing each day. You may experience stronger pregnancy symptoms, such as nausea and fatigue, as hormone levels peak. Staying hydrated, resting, and eating small, nutrient-rich meals will support both you and your baby during this busy phase of growth.

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