TL;DR
- Your baby is the size of a raspberry, about 1.6cm
- Tiny fingers and toes are developing from those paddle-like limb buds
- Morning sickness may be at its peak — hang in there
- Your first ultrasound may happen soon
Your Baby This Week
Your baby is now about 1.6cm — the size of a raspberry — and is looking more and more like a tiny human with each passing day. The most exciting development this week: fingers and toes are forming.
Those paddle-like limb buds from previous weeks are starting to separate into individual digits. They're still webbed, connected by thin membranes of tissue, but the shape of tiny fingers and toes is emerging. Your baby's arms can bend at the elbows, and the legs are lengthening, though they won't straighten for a few more weeks.
Your baby is moving, too — tiny spontaneous movements that are far too small for you to feel but are visible on ultrasound. These movements help the muscles and joints develop properly. The nervous system is beginning to send and receive signals, connecting the brain to the rest of the body.
The facial features are becoming more distinct. The upper lip and nose are formed, and the eyelids are developing — though they'll remain fused shut until around week 26. The ears are continuing to develop both externally and internally. Inside the mouth, tooth buds are forming beneath the gums, laying the foundation for your baby's first teeth.
Your baby's intestines are growing so rapidly that they temporarily extend into the umbilical cord because there isn't enough room in the tiny abdomen yet. They'll migrate back into the body in a few weeks as the abdomen grows to accommodate them.
Your Body This Week
Week 8 is often the peak of first-trimester misery for many people. Morning sickness, fatigue, and food aversions can feel relentless. HCG levels are approaching their highest point, and your body is in the thick of its most dramatic hormonal shifts.
Your uterus is growing — it's now about the size of a large orange, up from the size of a fist before pregnancy. You probably don't have a visible bump yet, but you might notice your waistband feeling tighter or your pants fitting differently. Bloating adds to that feeling of fullness.
Some people notice increased saliva production this week, a condition called ptyalism. It can be especially noticeable alongside nausea and might feel like your mouth is constantly watering. It's harmless but can be annoying.
You might also be experiencing vivid dreams. This is a common pregnancy phenomenon driven by hormonal changes and the lighter, more interrupted sleep that many pregnant people experience. Dreams can be strange, intense, or even distressing — but they're a normal part of pregnancy.
If you're feeling overwhelmed by symptoms, remember: this phase is temporary. For most people, the worst of it passes by the end of the first trimester.
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Common Questions at Week 8
What happens at the first prenatal visit?
Your first prenatal visit is typically the longest appointment you'll have. Your provider will review your medical history, perform a physical exam, order blood work and urine tests, and may perform an ultrasound. They'll confirm how far along you are, check for a heartbeat, and screen for any potential concerns. It's also your chance to ask questions — bring a list so you don't forget anything in the moment.
Is it normal to not want to eat anything?
Yes, severe food aversions are very common at this stage. If the only things you can tolerate are crackers and plain pasta, that's okay for now. Your baby is tiny and drawing from your body's existing nutrient stores. Focus on eating whatever you can keep down. As morning sickness eases in the coming weeks, you'll be able to return to a more balanced diet.
My symptoms disappeared suddenly. Should I worry?
Symptom fluctuation is normal. Pregnancy symptoms can come and go, and many people have "good days" mixed in with rough ones. A sudden, complete disappearance of all symptoms before week 10 can occasionally be a concern, so if you're worried, calling your provider for reassurance is always appropriate.
Can stress affect my baby?
Normal, everyday stress is not harmful to your pregnancy. Growing a baby while living your regular life — working, managing relationships, dealing with daily pressures — is something your body can handle. However, chronic, severe, or traumatic stress can have effects, so if you're going through something difficult, reaching out to your provider or a mental health professional is a good idea.
This Week's Tip
Your first ultrasound may happen soon — an exciting milestone. If your appointment is coming up, here's how to prepare: wear comfortable clothing that's easy to adjust, since the ultrasound may be transvaginal at this stage. Bring your partner or a support person if you'd like company. Have questions ready for your provider. And give yourself permission to feel whatever comes up when you see your baby on that screen for the first time. For many people, it's the moment that makes everything real. You might cry, laugh, feel relieved, or sit in quiet awe. There's no wrong reaction.
Milestone: First Prenatal Visit
This week often marks another major milestone — your first prenatal appointment. Walking into that clinic or office makes the pregnancy feel official in a new way. You'll hear medical professionals discuss your baby, see measurements on a screen, and start building the care team that will support you through delivery. It's the beginning of a partnership with your provider that will carry you through the next several months. If the appointment feels overwhelming, that's okay. It's a lot of information at once. Ask your provider to slow down, repeat things, or write down key points for you. This is your pregnancy, and your comfort matters.
Sources
- American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists (ACOG). How Your Fetus Grows During Pregnancy.
- Mayo Clinic. Fetal Development: The 1st Trimester.
