Pregnancy is similar in size to a bean - the length is from one and a half to two centimeters, it weighs about three grams. The child becomes more and more like a person, the “tail” disappears, the head is still disproportionate to the body.

The kid is actively growing and developing. First of all, the musculoskeletal system becomes stronger, the bone tissue becomes stronger. At this time, the baby's knee and elbow joints are barely distinguishable, you can see the shoulders, ankles. Facial features are becoming clearer, fingers and toes appear. They are still connected by a skin membrane.

An important achievement of the baby is the development of the reproductive system, and although the boys already have testicles, and the girls have ovaries, the sex of the child is not yet determined due to the large error. Ultrasound examination is clearly limited to:

• the contours of the upper and lower jaw;
• nose and even nostrils.

The eyelids are distinguishable on the eyes, which will soon open. The eyes begin to produce the pigment responsible for light perception.

The baby's heart is divided into four chambers, valves are actively forming. Between the ventricles, the opening is already overgrown, and between the atria it is preserved. The heart produces from 150 to 170 beats per minute. At the eighth week, the baby is still in a bent position (the so-called "embryonic position"), but soon the baby will straighten up. Respiratory organs, bronchi and lungs are formed. Already at the eighth week, the child is trying to clench his fists, but for the mother, such movements are not yet perceptible.

The development of the brain continues, and the neurons form more and more complex connections along which the first paths of nerve impulses will pass. The intestines are formed, the esophagus and the stomach are distinguishable. The liver begins to produce blood cells. the spinal column continues to improve. A very important organ is formed - the thymus gland, which participates in the body's immune defense, it is it that produces the first protective cells - lymphocytes.

Twin development

Kopa birth

Babies with twin pregnancies at this time do not lag behind in development compared to singleton pregnancies. The only significant difference is the weight of the twins. Babies weigh about 1 g and do not exceed one and a half centimeters in length. The crumbs have heads equal to the length of the body, the position of the twins is twisted. The outlines of the face become clearer, the eyes are still on the sides of the face, but the nose, ears, mouth and tongue are clearly visible. Babies continue to receive nutrition from the corpus luteum, since the placenta has not yet formed for their life support.

The formation of large and small joints occurs, but they are not always clearly limited. And if the hands almost resemble human hands, then the legs are more like fins. With a normally developing pregnancy, the cardiovascular system of twins is normal. Each baby has a four-chambered heart. The digestive organs are differentiated, sex cells are produced, and one fetus can be a boy, the other a girl.

The amount of amniotic fluid in twin pregnancies is slightly higher than in singleton pregnancies. Therefore, the size of the uterus does not correspond to the timing of pregnancy, the maternal organ is slightly larger, which is the first sign of bearing a multiple pregnancy - ultrasound will finally dispel doubt. At this time, during pregnancy with twins, the mother's belly is not noticeable.

The umbilical cord in babies has already been formed, the endometrium is gradually destroyed by the villous chorion. At the eighth week, it is very important that the placenta and umbilical cord developed correctly, since the risk of abnormalities doubles during pregnancy.

What Happens to Mom: Feelings

The eighth week of pregnancy brings tangible changes in a woman's life. If in the first weeks the body is only restructuring, then at this time the hormonal background is still unstable, significantly different from the pre-pregnant state of a woman. This provokes ailments and new sensations of the mother's body, to which it is now necessary to adapt.

Changes in the uterus. By the 8th week of pregnancy, the uterus continues to grow, but does not increase in size much, being in the area not above the pubic zone. If at this time sexual contact occurs, then the uterus is unnecessarily irritated and minor bleeding may occur from small blood vessels. This is due to the effect of hormonal levels on the uterus, but does not negatively affect the child.

Increased urination. This is not noticed by all women, but indeed, when the bladder is filled, the urge arises, because the growing uterus compresses the bladder, which causes it to give signals for emptying.

Soreness in the lower abdomen. It is quite normal for a woman to feel slight stretching in the lower abdomen during pregnancy. First of all, the soreness is associated with the stretching of the uterus, which is preparing to carry the baby. Also, the cause of pulling sensations is multiple pregnancy. If the pain is periodic, disappears on its own and is not accompanied by other signs, then you should not worry.

Headache. During pregnancy at the 8th week, it occurs due to overwork, which is provoked by hormonal instability and weakening of the mother's body. To avoid headaches, do not be nervous, expose yourself to stress. With frequent headaches, you should consult a doctor - this may be a sign of an infectious disease, vascular disorders.

Lower back discomfort. The lumbar area becomes especially sensitive during the period of enlargement of the uterus in size. Compression of the nerve endings pours out a dull aching pain in the lumbar region, from which many women suffer very much at the 8th week, and staying in one position even intensifies these sensations. A light massage and a change in body position will help to cope with such pains. If the soreness is sharp, it radiates to the kidneys, and urination is difficult, that is, there is a suspicion of a pathology of the urinary system. If lower back pain is associated with bloody discharge, it may be a miscarriage. In these conditions, you should immediately go to the clinic.

Soreness in the chest. There is nothing unusual in the fact that under the influence of hormones, pulling sensations arise in the breast - this is how the mammary glands prepare for feeding the baby. In especially sensitive women, these signs appear already at the 8th week. There is a feeling of heaviness in the chest, enlargement of the mammary glands, a tingling sensation. Usually, the discomfort is quite bearable, and after the normalization of the hormonal background, the pain in the chest subsides a little.

The eighth obstetric week is 6 weeks from conception, as well as 8 weeks from the start of the last menstrual period. The second month of pregnancy is coming to an end. During this time, the embryo has done a tremendous job of laying the main organs and systems, and this work continues day and night! Now the formed organs are developing rapidly, and some are already functioning by this time.

Embryo size

What an embryo looks like

If you could look inside your body, you would see a large head, and on it there are dark spots in those places where the eyes and nostrils began to form, there are the outlines of the mouth. Wide-set eyes (more precisely, their rudiments), located on both sides of the head, approach each other. Now they look just huge in relation to other organs. The dimensions of the head prevail over the body. A person's face looms.

At the 6th embryonic week of development, the buds of the outer ear are noticeable. The upper and lower limbs acquire distinct differences. The handles are ahead of the legs in their development. The arms and legs look like buds or buds. The hands and feet resemble small paddles. The wrist and elbow zones appear on the hands of the embryo. The toes also began to form, but so far only on the hands, and at the end of this week, the beginning of the next, and on the legs. At this time, the embryo can already bend and straighten the neck and make head movements to the sides.

Embryo development

• This week marks the beginning of hematopoiesis in the liver.


• The rapid development of the nervous system continues. The brain and spinal cord begin to become detached, the structure of nerve cells becomes more complicated, and the cerebellum begins to differentiate. The division of nerve cells occurs, the neurons of the brain are connected, so make every effort so that nothing negatively affects the formation of the nervous system.


• The baby's heart is functioning. The baby's heart rate is from 100 to 160 beats per minute - almost 2 times more often than the mother's - and the blood is already circulating through the tiny body. With the help of an ultrasound scanner, you can already hear the beating of a tiny heart.


• By the end of the sixth week, pigment begins to appear in the cells of the retina.


• A thymus gland is formed, which begins to be colonized by embryonic lymphocytes.


• At this stage, fetal sexual differentiation occurs. If there is no Y chromosome in its chromosome set, then the previously formed gonad (germ cell) develops into the ovary.


• Depending on the sex of the fetus, seminal vesicles, vas deferens, or ovaries begin to form. The formation of female genital organs occurs against the background of the content of maternal estrogens.


• At the end of the fifth - beginning of the sixth week (7-8 weeks from the day of the last menstruation), the testes of the male fetus begin to synthesize testosterone. This hormone is the main androgen and directly stimulates the development of the vas deferens. Acting on the urogenital area of ​​the fetus, testosterone forms the external genitalia. The prostate, testicles, seminal vesicles are formed, on the contrary, the absence of the male hormone leads to the development of the female phenotype.


• Scientists suggest that the influence of unfavorable factors during this period of pregnancy can lead to deviations in the sexual differentiation of the brain, which in the future can change a person's sexual orientation.


• The amniotic cavity grows, in which fluid accumulates and the embryo floats freely in it, making its first movements.


• The formation of cartilage tissue takes place, which will continue throughout the second month of pregnancy. The chest begins to form.


• The formation of uterine-embryonic blood circulation occurs.

Good to know

The intensive development of the placenta continues this week. It is a special special organ that is responsible for feeding, breathing, producing hormones and protecting the baby.

What happens in a woman's body

Despite the absence of a still-grown tummy, the old clothes are still getting tighter, your favorite jeans, perhaps, are already hardly converging at the waist.

Your uterus is actively growing and now it is about the size of an apple. You may experience slight contractions, like before your period. Now an important organ for you and your baby is growing in your body - the placenta. With its help, the baby will receive all the necessary nutrients, water, hormones, and oxygen.

The grown uterus presses on the bladder, which teaches urination.

Phlebeurysm

In the second month of pregnancy, full blue venous nodes may appear on a woman's legs, showing through the skin. This suggests that the load on the body is gradually increasing, and in order to avoid varicose veins, the expectant mother should wear tight knee-highs, exercise, eat more vegetables and fruits containing vitamins P and C. it is a rule for yourself to pour cold water on your feet 2-3 times a day.

Breast enlargement

Your breasts have increased, tightened, and felt heavy this week. And also the circle around the nipple darkened, the drawing of blood vessels increased. In addition, you will notice that there are nodules around the nipples - these are enlarged sweat glands.

Hormonal background

In the body of a pregnant woman, the progesterone content becomes several times higher than before pregnancy. The action of this hormone is aimed at maintaining pregnancy - it relaxes the uterus, preventing it from contracting and creating a comfortable environment for the fetus. Also in the corpus luteum of pregnancy, the hormone relaxin begins to be produced. It relaxes the pelvic ligaments and the cervix. While its concentration is still too low, but by the end of pregnancy it will be enough to ensure a slight divergence of the pelvic bones at the time of childbirth.

Also, under the influence of hormones, the condition of a woman's skin often changes: sometimes it becomes more elastic and clean, has a healthier appearance, and for many, on the contrary, the skin becomes drier and prone to peeling.

Painful sensations

Pain in the abdomen, lower back. Pain in the abdomen by this time is not uncommon. But these pains should be clearly classified, because the nature of individual painful sensations can be fraught with danger for the subsequent bearing of a child. So, the stomach can hurt for several reasons: due to digestive disorders, due to stretching of the ligaments that hold the uterus, as an alarm signal of a possible miscarriage.

Good to know

The uterus growing every day and the increasing amount of amniotic fluid can cause pain in the pelvic, abdomen and lower back. This is due to the pressure of the enlarging uterus on the sciatic nerve. To avoid severe pain, it is recommended to lie on your side with your legs tucked in, this will reduce the pressure on the nerve.

Thrush

At this time, thrush often occurs. This is because to protect the fetus from infections, the vaginal environment becomes very acidic, which is pleasing to the candida fungi and can cause them to multiply. White, tiny discharge and itching are the main symptoms. If the discharge is white or yellow, does not cause itching and there are not so many of them, then this is the norm.

Allocations

Normal for the eighth week of pregnancy is considered moderate vaginal discharge, light milky whitish color, uniform consistency, with a slight sour odor. The biggest problem at this time is the threat of termination of pregnancy. Many women have bloody or brown discharge at a given period of time, some just smear, and others develop real bleeding. In any case, this is a reason to see a doctor. Other warning signs include watery discharge, pain, or a pulling sensation in the lower back and abdomen.

Toxicosis

The state of health of the expectant mother at this time may deteriorate somewhat. First of all, due to toxicosis, which intensifies. The eighth week is usually marked by the achievement of toxicosis of its "peak" - often women admit that they are almost used to the nausea that accompanies their day, to the "wild" antics of the body about food preferences, irritation caused by certain odors. Please be patient, it will all take place in 12-16 weeks. Toxicosis can affect a slight weight loss, some women even seem to become slimmer during pregnancy.

Monitor your condition, in case of frequent vomiting, which interferes with the absorption of food and liquids, consult a doctor immediately.

Emotional instability, irritability and tearfulness are still relevant. It remains to be patient quite a bit: another week or two and the condition will necessarily normalize, toxicosis will recede and the "golden time" will come - the second trimester, a time of peace, full awareness of one's inevitable motherhood, a time of enjoying one's condition.

Sleep problems are also possible at 8 weeks of gestation, especially if you are not comfortable or have to constantly get up to use the toilet.

In the eighth week of pregnancy, the use of alcohol, nicotine is strictly prohibited, and heavy lifting should be avoided. In addition, you should carefully monitor your diet, make it as healthy and balanced as possible. Thinking about the health of the unborn child, a woman should reconsider her daily routine and immediately give up all bad habits. At this time, the influence of any negative factors on the development of the child is very large, in addition, they can worsen the condition of the expectant mother. Therefore, the 8th week is included in the so-called "critical period of pregnancy".

If the skin has become oily and acne appears, you should not buy all kinds of "acne" remedies. Not all of them can be used by pregnant women. To improve the condition of the skin, cleanse it 2-3 times a day with a disinfecting lotion or tonic, do not use oily creams, use decorative cosmetics to a minimum. In case of severe skin changes, consult a dermatologist.

This week is great for picking up your new bra. In 70% of women, the breasts are already enlarged, heavier and require support. During your pregnancy, you will most likely need to change several sizes. It is best to choose a model without bones, but with wide straps and preferably made from natural fabrics. The chest should never be compressed.

If possible, relax more often, walk in the fresh air and enjoy life. Moreover, even now the woman is fully aware of her new position, moreover, a certain focus of excitement is being formed in the mother's brain, which experts call the "dominant of pregnancy." This area in the cerebral cortex is intended to become the main "conductor" of a woman during pregnancy, conditioning her reactions to protecting the child, directing her thoughts in line with taking care of herself and the future baby.

With insomnia, a 10-15 minute walk before bedtime in the company of your spouse will help relieve daytime stress and sleep better.

For pain caused by compression of the sciatic nerve by the growing uterus, lie on the opposite side. This reduces the pressure of the uterus on the nerve.

From the 8th week of pregnancy, it is better to give up high heels, do not overwork, do not put a lot of stress on your legs, and raise them higher during rest. This is associated with an increased risk of dealing with varicose veins. Try not to lift heavy objects, alternate lying and sitting positions. To avoid the process of collecting blood in certain areas, place small pillows under your feet before bed.

Some experts advise having sex, it also has a positive effect and improves the well-being of a pregnant woman. The only time when it is not recommended to have sex is when there is a high probability of termination of pregnancy. Those women who have a threat of miscarriage should refrain from sexual activity in the first trimester of pregnancy, because the risk of provoking its termination remains high. Perfectly healthy women can have sex, but it is advisable to use a more gentle knee-elbow position for him to avoid dangerous pressure on the stomach and uterus from the inside. To be completely confident in the safety of sex during this period of pregnancy, the expectant mother should consult with her doctor on this issue.

If you haven’t seen your doctor yet, you should do it this week. It's time to get registered at the antenatal clinic. You have probably already chosen a place and a specialist. It's still better when your pregnancy is monitored by professionals.

Dangers

The risk of a possible negative effect on the fetus of drugs still remains, but slightly fades into the background compared to the risk of infectious diseases. Therefore, a woman needs to take care of her health no less than before. All previous recommendations remain valid.

Now the risk of developing defects is high. At this time, limb abnormalities may occur, such as syndactyly, polydactyly, clubfoot, congenital dislocation of the hip, and other organs are vulnerable.

Frozen pregnancy occurs at this time. In general, interruption at the end of the second month has the highest risk than in any other period of gestation. Now medical intervention will be required, since the period is already rather long and it will be very difficult for the body to cope with the current situation on its own. A spontaneous abortion is not always complete and hospitalization is often required.

Ectopic development of the fetus is also often detected at this time. Internal bleeding is the main symptom of this problem. As a rule, at this time, the fallopian tube is no longer able to accommodate the ovum and ruptures. Blood is poured into the abdomen, which manifests itself in a state of shock and threatens the woman's life. All these risks, of course, are frightening, but doctors know how to help. With timely treatment, the loss of a child can often be prevented. For example, the so-called retroplacental hematoma can be punctured under ultrasound guidance, if the fetus is alive, this will help to maintain the pregnancy.

As you can see, the second month is the period when it is important to be extremely attentive to your health and pay attention to any changes in the body. Be careful with medications, if you have a cold, fever - do not prescribe the treatment yourself, see your doctor.

After a month, the risk of losing the baby will practically disappear, and the condition of the expectant mother will return to normal, the main thing is to be patient.

Analyzes and examinations

From the beginning of the 8th week, you need to start being examined by doctors, such as an ophthalmologist, dentist, ENT. In order to identify in time any problems in the body that may affect the development of the child, and to cure them in time.

If you had problems with the thyroid gland before pregnancy, then in the eighth week, be sure to see a doctor, because it is this period that the child's own thyroid gland begins to function. Your illness can lead to the fact that the child begins to malfunction, which will lead to serious problems. So it is imperative to contact an endocrinologist who will prescribe the necessary medications.

If your blood is Rh negative, and your dad is positive, you need to see your doctor so that he prescribes medications for prevention, in order to avoid the risk of death and damage to the fetus.

And if you first visited an obstetrician-gynecologist, then you will be assigned:

• General urine analysis.


• General blood analysis.


• Blood chemistry.


• Blood sugar test.


• Blood test for infections: HIV, syphilis (Wasserman reaction), hepatitis (B and C).


• Sexually transmitted diseases.


• TORCH-complex.

They will conduct an examination with weighing, measuring the pelvis and blood pressure.

This is described in more detail in the previous weeks of ours.

Ultrasound

The goals of an ultrasound scan in early pregnancy, in particular at 8 weeks, is, first of all, to confirm the very fact of pregnancy, if this has not happened earlier. Moreover, it is the uterine. The embryo must be in the uterine cavity, and nowhere else. If he is present in any other place, most often in the fallopian tubes, it is said about an ectopic pregnancy. This condition requires urgent surgical intervention in order to eliminate the atypically fixed ovum and the developing embryo. Otherwise, there will be a threat to the life of a woman.

Early scanning allows you to accurately determine the timing of development and find out the baby's birthday. With its help, the location of the fetus and placenta is revealed, the health of both the expectant mother and the unborn child is monitored. In the case of diagnosing non-serious diseases, appropriate treatment is prescribed. A forecast is given for the upcoming birth. Indications for physiological or surgical delivery are formed.

The first visit of the expectant mother to the ultrasound office occurs, as a rule, at the 8th week of the fetal development of the unborn child. By this time, almost always, the upcoming replenishment in the family has already been established. The woman does not have her period on time, which sends her to the pharmacy for a test. The physiological state is changing: mood changes, changes in the mammary glands, early toxicosis is often found - morning sickness, a change in taste preferences. All this leads a woman to an appointment with a gynecologist, who confirms the pregnancy and prescribes specialized examinations, including ultrasound.

On ultrasound, the embryo is similar in size to a raspberry. He is acquiring more and more human form. A study this week is determining the viability of the fetus. It is calculated based on the coccygeal-parietal size (the distance from the highest point of the child's head to its coccygeal end), heart rate and motor activity.

The average linear dimensions of the embryo are 12–13 mm. The arms and legs are lengthened, membranes are still preserved between the fingers, the elbow joints become distinguishable. The child, although it is not visible on the scan, hugs itself, as it were. His arms and legs are already moving, but the amplitude and force of movement are so small that the expectant mother does not feel it yet. The amniotic (fetal) bladder, about 3 cm in diameter, filled with amniotic fluid (amniotic fluid) produced by the child's kidneys and fetal bladder, does not allow to feel the child's movements.

With ultrasound, you can see the forming eyes, covered with a skin fold, the tip of the nose. By the 8th week of intrauterine development, the embryo has almost completed the formation of the gonads (sex glands). But ultrasound recognition of the sex of the unborn child is still difficult, although in some cases already at 8 weeks the ultrasound shows which gender the fetus caused the current pregnancy. Is it the testicles or the ovaries - such a study does not determine at such a time.

The neck becomes distinguishable, the child can turn the almost completely formed head. In it, the cerebral hemispheres become distinguishable, their central groove separating them. On devices with a high resolution, even large convolutions can be identified and the border of the transition of white matter into the cerebral cortex can be distinguished. By this time, the formation of all vital organs has been completed.

The 8th week of pregnancy makes it possible to hear the beating of a baby's heart with an ultrasound scan. It beats so often - with a rhythm of 155 beats per minute, that it gives the impression of a small motor.

The average size of the uterus, outside of pregnancy, comparable to the size of a woman's clenched fist, coinciding with the average size of a healthy heart, increases to 12-13 cm, and its shape from pear-shaped to spherical. With ultrasound, you can determine a slight decrease in the elasticity of the walls of the uterine arteries and the expansion of these arteries. This is due to the fact that during pregnancy, more blood supply to this organ is required with a slowdown in the rate of intravascular blood flow. This mechanism is aimed at providing a rapidly growing embryo (1 mm per day) with sufficient oxygen and nutrients.

A very serious pathology that ultrasound helps to diagnose is a cystic drift. The reasons for its occurrence have not yet been clarified, but by its nature it resembles a tumor-like growth. The enlarging villi of the chorion (the child's place from which the placenta is formed), with expanding bubbles, rather quickly lead to the death of the fetus. At the same time, the ongoing process resembles a normally proceeding pregnancy, which in fact no longer exists.

In the eighth week, the baby grows rapidly inside the womb. All internal organs of the unborn baby are already laid. For the crumbs, every day of its development is important. All the systems of his little organism have to undergo changes and improve. The expectant mother remains outwardly the same, although there is a real miracle inside her. A woman's uterus reaches the size of a small orange by the 8th week. A pregnant woman begins toxemia, abdominal pains appear, and the emotional background changes.

Baby development at 8 weeks of gestation

In two obstetric months of intrauterine development, the embryo grows rapidly. Most of the organs have already completed their formation, and in the future, until the end of pregnancy, their improvement and growth will occur. A cervical bend is indicated, the baby's head is now located at right angles to the body. The mouth cavity grows and the primary face appears. On ultrasound, you can already see the outer ear. By the end of this month, the size of the embryo will already be 4 cm and its head will begin to emerge. The size of a baby is comparable to a small strawberry:

What happens to the fetus at 8 weeks

In the formation of the crumbs, the following occurs:

• at 8 weeks, the fetal heart completes one of the stages of its development and becomes four-chambered;
• the cerebral hemispheres increase, the first convolutions appear on them;
• the shoulder and elbow joints have completed their formation. The baby already at this time can move the arms, bend and unbend them sequentially;
• the tiny stomach is formed and located in the abdominal region;
• on an ultrasound scan, a specialist with the help of equipment will be able to examine miniature folds on the head, suggesting that future external ears are located there;
• the inner ear is formed and continues its further development;
• the embryo has already formed a tongue and the first taste buds appear on it. A little more, and the baby will know what amniotic fluid tastes;
• The baby's face is still hard to see, but it is clearer by this week. On it, you can already note the outlines of future lips, chin and nose. The latter already has the rudiments of olfactory receptors and very soon it will be possible to see small nostrils on it;
• the baby's eyes cannot be seen yet - they look like small black dots. But by 8 weeks, the pigment is already genetically determined and formed, which is responsible for determining the color of the child's eyes;
• the child's genitals will appear a little later, and now the internal formation of the ovaries begins in female babies, and the testicles in male babies. In the perineum, only a miniature genital tubercle is still visible, and the sex of the child is still physically impossible to see on an ultrasound examination;
• the process of development of the skeletal system and connective tissue (cartilage) continues;
• embryonic organ - the yolk sac is still present in the nutrition of the embryo, contains a supply of nutrients and functions together with the placenta. It will lose its importance by about the end of the first trimester, but for now its size is about 4.5 - 5 mm and it is still growing.

Changes in the body of the expectant mother at 8 weeks

That, the woman is already aware by this date. First of all, her monthly periods have stopped, and the delay has lasted for more than a couple of weeks. By the current period of bearing the baby, other signs and sensations of a woman have appeared, betraying her interesting position:

• nausea;
• change in taste with an addiction to sour and salty;
• enlargement and some soreness of the mammary glands;
• darkening of the skin in the forehead, nose, upper lip, areola, and in the lower abdomen between the navel and the pubic area.

What the belly looks like at 8 weeks

The term for bearing the crumbs is still too short, therefore, there is no talk of external manifestations of an interesting situation. In the current week of pregnancy, the tummy is not yet visible even to multiparous mothers. It is possible to note a slight increase in the waist only if the expectant mother from the first weeks took a photo of her belly in order to note for herself even an insignificant growth of the uterus and tummy. But even in such a situation, "by eye" a belly that has grown by a couple of centimeters is more likely to say about relaxation of the abdominal muscles or weight gain of a pregnant woman than about the growth of a baby in the uterus.

What does a woman feel during this period of bearing a child

At first, women often do not notice their fatigue, easily overcome it and continue to work at the same pace. But by the 8th week, the new state takes its toll - the expectant mother is easily overworked, her interest in the world around her is lost, emotionality increases, negative reactions to others may appear.

Some changes may be associated with toxicosis and hormonal changes in the body, which also makes itself felt by the physical manifestations of pregnancy.

• The breast hurts when touched and increases noticeably from the moment the pregnancy begins. By the end of the second month, the bra cups may have to be changed 1-1.5 sizes larger. Vessels on the chest and mammary glands become bright, convex. The area around the nipples also darkens.
• The growing uterus already at such a short time begins to put pressure on the bladder. A woman feels more frequent urge to go to the toilet with the same fluid intake as before, and this can cause discomfort.
• The mucous membranes, under the influence of hormones, intensify their work, as a result of which the expectant mother increases salivation, there is a desire to constantly swallow saliva. Also, the secret is produced with great effort in the nasal passage, as a result of which a "false runny nose" and nasal congestion may appear without other obvious signs of a cold.
• A woman is going through a period of emotional instability: she is haunted by mood swings at any time of the day. The sensitivity is increased so much that it seems to the pregnant woman that everyone around her does not understand and are trying to offend. Because of this, conflicts may arise with family and friends.
• Constant sleepiness makes itself felt - a woman can fall asleep anywhere, barely touching her head on a soft surface. Fatigue interferes with ability to work, at work I constantly want to sleep, physical activity is reduced to a minimum.
• The skin pleases with positive changes, acne and inflammation disappear, and its surface itself becomes velvety and pleasant to the touch.

Is it possible to have sex at this stage of pregnancy

Starting with a woman's sex drive, it can decrease, which is completely normal. The hormonal surge in the body and the onset of early toxicosis lead to a decrease in the sexual activity of the expectant mother. During this period of her life, she needs more attention, affection and warmth, emotional peace than sexual intercourse.

In the absence of changes in libido, women with a healthy course of pregnancy can continue to have a normal sex life up to 9 months, if there are no factors complicating its course. Poses for sexual intercourse should be chosen as comfortable as possible for a pregnant woman, and in case of painful sensations from sexual intercourse, one should abstain.

Doctor visits and examinations

Speaking about 8 weeks of pregnancy, many expectant mothers are interested in how many months it is in obstetric terms. According to the calculation of the timing in the antenatal clinic, 8 obstetric weeks are equal to 2 obstetric months. If we count what month from the moment of conception, then the period will be slightly less - 1.8 months.

During this period, a woman, having learned about her interesting situation (usually due to the absence of menstruation and a positive test for the hCG hormone), can apply for the first appointment at a medical institution. Obstetrician - gynecologist registers the patient and prescribes a number of tests for the further management of pregnancy:

• General blood analysis required to track the state of the mother and baby in the womb. With the help of the analysis, the doctor evaluates the indicators of erythrocytes, leukocytes, platelets, neutrophils, etc. An increase in the amount of certain substances in the blood may indicate the presence of an inflammatory process in the body or more serious disorders. At pathological levels, a re-analysis is given and outpatient treatment is prescribed.
• General Analysis of urine the woman will hand over from the beginning to the end of the pregnancy. Sowing for sterility is done so often because bearing a fetus is a big load on the female body and directly on its excretory system, i.e. kidneys. The study will allow you to recognize in time whether there is an inflammatory process in the urinary system.
• Blood test for antibodies to HIV, syphilis, hepatitis B and C... Since these diseases have a huge negative effect on both the mother's body and the embryo, doctors must study the blood test of the pregnant woman for the presence of antibodies to these infectious diseases.
• Blood for the determination of the Rh factor... The analysis is carried out at the very beginning of pregnancy and allows you to track the presence of Rh - a conflict between the mother's body and the fetus. With a negative Rh factor, the test is taken at least once a month to control the amount of antibodies.
• Analysis for TORCH infections the PCR method (rubella, toxoplasmosis, herpes and cytomegalovirus) is not included in the list of mandatory tests, but is recommended by gynecologists in early pregnancy. Based on the results of the analysis, it will be clear whether a woman is a carrier of at least one of the TORCH infections included in the list. The danger of their presence in the mother's body is that if the fetus is infected up to 11 weeks, it may die or it may develop true malformations of organs / tissues.
• Vaginal, cervical and cervical swab taken by the doctor at the first appointment when registering for pregnancy. It is needed to determine the presence / absence of diseases of the urogenital sphere. Before the procedure, a woman undergoes a general gynecological examination on a chair.
• Ultrasound at 8 weeks is carried out in order to find out if everything is normal with. On the study, the specialist notes the approximate weight and size of the fetus, identifies the compliance of the baby's development with the current gestational age. Of course, the expectant mother is interested in how the fetus looks this week - and on the monitor you can see a miniature oblong body and the baby's head. Cardio at this time in the baby is reduced on average from 150 beats / min. This is twice as fast as the heart of the mother herself beats.

Spotting during pregnancy at 8 weeks

Often, women describe situations when they find out about pregnancy by chance, since the expected menstruation occurred every month at the beginning of the cycle, and only on the basis of concomitant symptoms (nausea, rejection of smells, dizziness) it was possible to guess about an interesting situation.

In fact, the "menstruation" that arose after the alleged fertilization in the first two months of pregnancy can only speak of one thing - there is a threat of miscarriage. Sometimes this threat coincides with the alleged onset of a new menstruation, but still this is not monthly menstruation, but a serious condition accompanied by typical symptoms: the lower abdomen pulls painfully, the muscles of the uterus are tense, the body temperature rises, weakness, chills appear, bloody discharge is noticeable on the linen.
What to do in such a situation?

• Call an ambulance immediately! Only with medical help can the pregnancy be maintained and the detachment of the ovum can be prevented. Bloody discharge is the main sign that there is a threat to the life of the fetus and, if inactive, it is possible to terminate the pregnancy. Until a doctor appears, a woman must be sure to relax and stay in bed.
• Even short-term pain in the lower abdomen at the eighth week and the appearance of any discharge that differs from the norm, require consultation of an obstetrician-gynecologist. An ultrasound of the uterus is also required and the reason for the threat of termination of pregnancy is established. The expectant mother should remember that the presence of such a threat is not a sentence, the main thing is to carry out all medical examinations on time and, if possible, prevent complications of pregnancy.

Diet of a pregnant woman

Correct, complete, balanced nutrition from the early stages of pregnancy is the most important condition for the normal development of the fetus, newborn and child in the first years of life. Prenatal development experts believe that feeding while carrying a baby requires as much attention as feeding a newborn and nursing baby. The main "building material" for the cells of the fetus is protein. It is found in large quantities in foods such as milk, cheese, cottage cheese, meat, fish, eggs, legumes, and grain.

Important! Improper nutrition of a pregnant woman can lead to actual starvation of the fetus in the midst of excess nutrients. Indeed, in this case, they act unbalanced, i.e. a form that is not very suitable for assimilation.

It is necessary that the food of the pregnant woman was varied - the monotonous diet disrupts the appetite. For a woman with average height and weight, the daily diet should contain at least 100 g of protein, 70 g of fat, 300 g of carbohydrates. This can be achieved if you eat boiled meat / fish, one egg every day, drink a glass of kefir, add butter and vegetable oil (15-20 g per day) to dishes, and also eat at least 400 g of vegetables and the same amount of fruit.

Here's what a sample menu might look like in the eighth week of pregnancy:

Eating	Food and drink options
First breakfast	Broccoli and cheese omelet, fruit yoghurt, mild tea with lemon and honey
Lunch	Cheesecakes with raisins and sour cream, banana, coffee drink or milk
Dinner	Carrot, green pea and apple salad, meatball broth, French croutons, mint tea
Afternoon snack	Cottage cheese with jam, drinking yoghurt 1%
Dinner	Buckwheat porridge in a pot with meat and mushrooms, boiled beetroot and prune salad, apple charlotte, rosehip broth
Before bedtime	Milk crust, a glass of fermented baked milk

What foods should a mom-to-be avoid:

• all types of alcoholic beverages;
• strong coffee, tea, cocoa, large portions of chocolate due to the high caffeine content and stimulating effect on the nervous system;
• poorly fried and smoked meat - due to its poor digestion, the danger of poisoning and infection with helminths;
• dishes with a high content of salt and hot spices;
• excess confectionery rich in carbohydrates;
• canned food and semi-finished products.

What can be troubling at the 8th week of pregnancy?

In the early stages of pregnancy, a woman may experience various kinds of ailments. The appearance of many of them should not be scared, they are associated with serious changes in the body of the expectant mother and are completely normal. But it is necessary to know about possible problems so that in case of the appearance of alarming symptoms, immediately consult your doctor.

Weakness and dizziness	Often found in the first half of pregnancy. Especially these symptoms can be pronounced in those women who have experienced similar ailments during the onset of the monthly menstrual cycle. They usually go away by themselves by 11-12 weeks, but if dizziness and weakness have become constant companions, they must be reported to the therapist.
Heartburn	The appearance of heartburn at an early stage may indicate a restructuring of the gastrointestinal tract under the influence of the hormone progesterone. To alleviate the condition with bouts of heartburn, a pregnant woman is advised to reduce the content of animal fats in her food and not to abuse flour dishes.
Lower abdominal pain	When the 8th week of pregnancy comes from conception, pain in the abdomen is most often a "echo" of pain in the lumbar spine. If you lie on your back and bend your knees, the pain usually goes away. If the stomach pulls and the pain is not relieved by such a simple technique, it is quite possible that we are talking about an increased tone of the uterus. In this case, you urgently need to contact an obstetrician-gynecologist to find out the exact cause of the pain.
Nausea and salivation	These signs and sensations are typical for most expectant mothers in the first trimester of pregnancy. Nausea occurs with early toxicosis in conjunction with a change in smell, increased sensitivity and mood swings. With satisfactory tolerance, all of the listed symptoms do not require special treatment and go away on their own.
Anxiety and fear	Feelings of anxiety, fear and anxiety when the 8th obstetric week comes can be due to pregnancy hormones circulating in the blood. Usually, anxiety states do not last long and gradually disappear by the beginning of the second trimester. Also, psychological discomfort can largely be associated with experiences with regards to future childbirth, the birth of a child, changes in life plans. A psychologist or a like-minded person can help sort out thoughts and feelings.

Note!Many of the ailments of pregnant women are very unpleasant, but it is worth remembering that they are temporary and certainly not life-threatening. The main thing is that they are incomparable with a happily ending pregnancy.

Wardrobe at week 8: what to look for

For women's clothing in the early period of bearing crumbs, the most suitable materials are those that allow air to pass through and conduct heat well, absorb sweat and are easy to wash. Linen and cotton fabrics are ideal for these purposes. Everyday clothes should not only be beautiful and comfortable, but also protect mommy in a position from hypothermia in winter and from overheating in summer.

Important! The main thing in clothes for pregnant women is that it does not hinder movements, does not obstruct breathing and is appropriate for the season.

Here are some criteria for preparing a mom-to-be's wardrobe in the first trimester:

• clothes with laces and fasteners are preferred, they will expand easily as the pregnancy progresses;
• it is advisable to wear dress-shirts, skirts or sundresses with various blouses;
• trousers and jeans with a tight waistband should be avoided;
• underwear should be loose, breathable, preferably seamless and made from natural fabrics;
• already at this time, one should get used to shoes that are free for walking with small heels. The closer to childbirth, the more difficult it will be for the expectant mother to bend down, so you need to choose options without laces - such shoes will be easy to put on and take off without bending over.

During pregnancy, the expectant mother should pay special attention to her well-being, as well as observe some precautions in her behavior and relationships with others.

Avoid colds and SARS

It is very important for the first time to avoid contact with people suffering from colds. The organs and systems of the baby are laid precisely in the first trimester, and any maternal illness can not only weaken her body, but also affect the intrauterine development of the child. For the same reason, places with significant crowds, public transport during rush hour, etc. should be temporarily abandoned.

Do not take vitamins and medicines without permission

A woman should not take any medications without a doctor's prescription. Even harmless vitamin supplements taken uncontrollably (on the advice of friends, relatives) can potentially harm an unborn baby.

Don't take an unscheduled x-ray for no reason

X-ray examinations should not be carried out without reason for such a short period of bearing a child. The harm of X-rays is very great, and unnecessarily X-ray examination (for example, fluorography of the chest organs) is postponed at least until the moment of delivery

Allocate more time to sleep

A night's sleep is important for the well-being of a woman in position, so its duration should be at least 8-9 hours. Daytime sleep is also very useful, and if possible, it is useful for the expectant mother to allocate 1-1.5 hours to be able to rest lying down in the daytime.

Avoid excessive physical activity

Heavy physical activity, hard work (lifting weights, jogging, fast moving up the stairs) should stop during pregnancy. A pregnant woman also cannot stand on her feet for a long time - overstrain can provoke a strong tone of the muscles of the uterus, which is fraught with abdominal pain and the threat of bearing a baby.

No - to difficult working conditions

It is unacceptable for an expectant mother to work in hazardous production conditions for a period of 8 weeks, and any night work is also prohibited. According to the labor legislation of the Russian Federation, a woman, having provided a certificate from the antenatal clinic about pregnancy, has the right to switch to light work, and, if necessary, ask for a reduction in the length of the working day.

Be outdoors longer

Walks are useful for expectant mothers because during movement the blood circulates more actively, the cells are saturated with oxygen, there is an active prevention of the emergence of all the most unpleasant "companions" of pregnancy - edema, varicose veins, hemorrhoids, constipation. In addition, good, healthy sleep will be a good result of being outdoors every day.

Visit your gynecologist regularly

Timely medical supervision is necessary for every pregnant woman. With a regular visit to the gynecologist throughout the entire period, each week is marked in the card of the expectant mother, allowing you to track her health status. This is the only way to timely identify risk factors and direct treatment efforts to eliminate them.

8 week of pregnancy is 6 embryonic week. If you are used to counting in ordinary months, then this is the end of the 2nd month. During this period of time, many women are already aware of their own condition. Those who are not yet clear are most likely already guessing, because the symptoms that appeared earlier are intensifying.

8 obstetric week of pregnancy is the end of 2 months of pregnancy, 1 trimester.

What happens to mom at 8 weeks pregnant?

Hormone levels continue to rise, and early symptoms become more prominent. The growth of hormones manifests itself in the form of constant mood changes, tearfulness, drowsiness. At 8 weeks, the uterus begins to grow. And if a woman does not yet feel this, then her internal organs are already in an uncomfortable state for them. The urge to use the toilet becomes more frequent, constipation is likely.

The main problem of most pregnant women is toxicosis. It interferes with eating well. In some cases, it is so pronounced that the expectant mother cannot swallow a bite. In such acute cases, it is imperative to consult a doctor, since adequate nutrition is very important for the normal development of the fetus.

As a rule, with toxicosis, there is a group of products that relieve nausea and alleviate the condition of the expectant mother. This list is individual and each will have to experiment a little to find what works for her. In most cases, toxicosis is reduced by ordinary water with the addition of lemon juice.

Feelings of a woman during 8 weeks of pregnancy can be different, since everything is purely individual. Among the most common signs of pregnancy: morning sickness, mood swings, changes in taste preferences, impaired appetite, fatigue, a constant desire to sleep, breast enlargement and sensitivity, increased urination.

The belly at this time is still completely invisible even for the mother. Moreover, pregnancy with twins does not yet differ in any way from pregnancy with one child, the stomach cannot yet protrude forward, since the size of the uterus reaches no more than 8-9 cm.

Allocations

The growth of hormones and an increase in the size of the uterus leads to an increased supply of blood to all organs of the small pelvis. The discharge becomes more abundant, which can cause some discomfort. Discharge with a beige or slightly yellowish tint is considered normal.

The appearance of brown discharge, not accompanied by pain in the lower abdomen or lower back, may also be the norm (depending on the characteristics of the woman's body), but when they appear, you must definitely consult a doctor, since they can also be the first signal that indicates the threat of miscarriage.

The appearance of itching or any other discomfort and irritation on the genitals is also a reason for an urgent visit to the doctor.

What does a baby look like at 8 weeks old? Fetal development

If the 8th obstetric week of pregnancy has begun, then the fetus has already laid all organs, tissues and systems that will develop over the next months. This is already a real man, only very tiny. During an ultrasound scan, you can clearly see the baby's head, his small arms and legs. Now it looks like a grape. Its size is 15-20 mm, and its weight reaches 3 grams.

Now the development of the placenta begins. The fetus will now be fed through the umbilical cord. Internal organs begin to improve: the heart is already four-chambered, in the lungs there are branching of the bronchi, kidneys have formed. The genitals appear: in boys, testicles, and in girls, ovaries, in which eggs begin to be generated. In appearance, the differences are not yet noticeable, so it is too early to make predictions about the sex of the unborn child. The first assumption is made by the specialist on ultrasound during screening at 11-12 weeks.

The nervous system also begins its active development. The fetus is constantly moving in the mother's stomach: it squeezes and unclenches the arms, tumbling and spinning. All this is clearly visible during an ultrasound scan. However, the baby at the 8th week of pregnancy is still too small, so the mother will hardly notice his movements. The first movements can be felt after a couple of months.

Facial features become more and more pronounced. The child enters a phase of active growth, now from week to week he will noticeably gain weight and height.

Frequently asked questions on the forums

Q: Is it possible to eat salted and pickled at 2 months of pregnancy?

A: You can. Doctors do not impose any prohibitions on salty foods. The only thing is that you don't need to get carried away with it. Remember that now you are responsible for the life and health of your baby, and now he does not need pickles, but calcium and vitamins.

Q: Thrush at 8 weeks. How to be treated? Is pimafucin possible?

A: During this period, any medication negatively affects the development and health of the child. Do not self-medicate under any circumstances! See your doctor, he will prescribe an acceptable treatment. You can temporarily relieve itching and discomfort with the help of douching and washing with a solution of soda.

Q: Fainted at 8 weeks. Why did it happen?

A: Dizziness and fainting are possible in the early stages, this is a fairly common occurrence. Check your blood pressure, it may be low, which is the reason for the fainting. To avoid repetition, spend more time outdoors, get enough sleep, don't overwork yourself, and eat well.

What should a mom do at 8 weeks pregnant?

If the pregnant woman has not yet registered with the antenatal clinic, then it's time to do it. The doctor must conduct the first examination and send for all the necessary tests to confirm a progressive uterine pregnancy, prescribe the necessary vitamins and, if necessary, send for an ultrasound scan.

Ultrasound at this time is prescribed, as a rule, to exclude a frozen or ectopic pregnancy. With the help of the apparatus, you can hear the heartbeat of the baby, see its location, see its head, arms and legs. Ultrasound will not give more information for a period of 8 weeks, you will have to be patient and wait for the first screening.

An indicator of a normal pregnancy is the hCG hormone, the value of which at 8 weeks of gestation can vary in the range of 23000-100000 mIU / ml and continues to grow actively. According to hCG, it is also possible to establish multiple pregnancies; at the 8th week of pregnancy with twins, it is equal to 40,000-200,000 mIU / ml.

In addition to being examined by a gynecologist, you definitely need to visit a therapist, dentist, and also a venereologist.

Tell your doctor if you have a chronic medical condition, allergies, or need to take any medication. In this case, the doctor may prescribe additional tests and examinations, as well as adjust the intake of medications.

What tests are taken at the 8th week of pregnancy?

As a rule, when registering, they hand over:

• general urine analysis, which assesses the condition of the kidneys;
• urine analysis according to Nechiporenko, which allows you to detect latent inflammatory processes;
• a general blood test to determine hemoglobin and the presence of inflammatory processes in the body;
• blood to determine the blood group and Rh factor, allows you to determine if there is a Rh conflict;
• blood for HIV, syphlis, hypatitis B, TORCH infections;
• a smear to detect sexually transmitted infections.

If a pregnant woman does not particularly complain about anything, then she can live the same way as she lived before pregnancy. Can engage in active sports, but it is better to reduce the intensity of the load in the classroom. Sex is also not contraindicated. If there is a likelihood of miscarriage, then it is necessary to abandon sex and other types of activities until the risk passes.

Almost all expectant mothers at the 8th week of pregnancy complain of increased fatigue, nervousness, and anxiety. To avoid this, regular walks in the fresh air are recommended. Nutrition should be carefully monitored. Vegetables, fruits, fermented milk and protein products must be included in the daily diet. Doctors do not recommend getting carried away with all sorts of buns and other pastries, sweets, coffee and all kinds of allergenic foods.

The signs of pregnancy at 8 weeks are already more than clearly noticeable. And without exaggeration, we can say that the sensations at the 8th week of pregnancy are very diverse.

All changes in the physical and emotional-psychological state of pregnant women, as well as their well-being at the 8th week of pregnancy - directly or indirectly - generates and coordinates the hormone progesterone. Although the pregnancy test, including the test at the 8th week of pregnancy, is based on the detection of another hormone - human chorionic gonadotropin (hCG). This hormone is produced only by the outer villous membrane of the ovum (chorion) after its implantation into the endometrium of the uterus, and this happens several days after fertilization. That is, menstruation at 8 weeks of gestation should stop.

But let's return to progesterone, which is synthesized by the ovaries and adrenal glands (and after 13 weeks by the placenta) and thanks to which the fertilized egg (blastocyst) is fixed on the uterine wall. The body of a pregnant woman responds to the sedative effect of this hormone with an increased feeling of fatigue and drowsiness, some imbalance and "unreasonable" mood swings.

The most characteristic signs of pregnancy at 8 weeks, which are noted by almost all expectant mothers, are associated with appetite, taste sensations and, in general, with all digestion. Many people suffer from morning sickness at 8 weeks of gestation, and vomiting often occurs at 8 weeks of gestation. Obstetricians call this toxicosis in the first half of pregnancy. Many hormones contribute to its development. Thus, the adrenal cortex produces more cortisol and cortisone - to ensure optimal carbohydrate metabolism and the accumulation of energy in the liver in the form of glycogen. But the secretion of the digestive hormone gastrin (responsible for the level of hydrochloric acid in gastric juice) can both decrease and increase. In the first case, the pregnant woman loses her appetite and the digestion of food slows down, and in the second, the “wolfish” appetite wakes up, heartburn suffers, and an excess weight gain occurs.

Constipation at 8 weeks gestation is also a characteristic symptom of this condition. The fact is that progesterone relaxes the myometrium of the uterus, and at the same time the smooth muscles of the gastrointestinal tract. And the increased production of estrogen, aimed at the development of the pregnant uterus, simultaneously reduces the motility of the gastrointestinal tract. In addition, there is a decrease in the level of the hormone motilin synthesized in the small intestine, which should help in the movement of food through the digestive tract. All these factors cause not only constipation at the 8th week of pregnancy, but also flatulence - bloating at the 8th week of pregnancy.

Experts also note an increase in the level of adrenocorticotropic hormone in the blood of pregnant women, which, in addition to fluid retention in tissues, enhances the production of melanin. And this is the reason for the appearance of age spots on the face of pregnant women - one of the external signs of pregnancy.

What an 8 week pregnancy looks like: uterus, breast, belly

The uterus at the 8th week of pregnancy under the influence of estrogen increases, but it still remains within the small pelvis, so the stomach at the 8th week of pregnancy does not yet give out to those around the "interesting position" of the woman. Although often pregnant women (especially thin ones) feel a slight increase in the volume of the abdomen in the hypogastrium - between the navel and the pubic region.

However, the uterus is already beginning to tighten the round ligaments, which hold it in a tilted position outside of pregnancy, as well as the sacro-uterine ligaments. Because of this, pregnant women complain that their belly pulls at 8 weeks of gestation or that their lower back pulls at 8 weeks of gestation.

The gradually growing uterus at the 8th week of pregnancy begins to put pressure on the bladder, since the peritoneal cover of the enlarging uterus passes onto it. So toilet visits are inevitably more frequent.

The mucous membrane of the cervical canal produces a special cervical secretion that prevents infection from entering the uterine cavity. During pregnancy, the mucus becomes thicker, forming a plug that completely closes the canal. However, there may be slight light discharge at the 8th week of pregnancy, associated with the characteristics of the local microflora and the level of hormones. Discharges that indicate the presence of pathologies will be discussed a little later.

The changes that the breast undergoes at the 8th week of pregnancy make themselves felt, first of all, by the enlargement of the mammary glands, which is necessary for the upcoming lactation.

You have probably noticed that the bra is getting too small and you need a larger size. Changes in hormonal levels, as well as other tissue changes, are due to preparation for breastfeeding. The breasts may continue to enlarge throughout the pregnancy.

Under the action of estriol, progesterone and chorionic growth hormone, more milk lobules, alveoli and excretory ducts are formed in the breast. And thanks to the intensive synthesis of the pituitary hormone prolactin, which begins from the 8th week of gestation, the process of colostrum production starts. All these physiological changes cause sensations at the 8th week of pregnancy, such as tingling in the mammary glands, some soreness, increased nipple sensitivity, darkening of the nipples and areola.

Hormonal changes - in particular, a sudden rise in progesterone - can cause fatigue. Nausea and vomiting also drain energy. Difficulty sleeping can appear, especially if you constantly have to get up in the middle of the night to use the bathroom.

An Idea for Fighting Fatigue “Taking short 15-20 minute walks helped me cope with chronic fatigue in the first trimester of pregnancy. It was the only way I was able to fight sleep during work hours.” - Gabriela.

Fetus at 8 weeks gestation

The obstetricians determine the physical and physiological parameters of the fetus at this time on the basis of an ultrasound scan at the 8th week of pregnancy.

How is the child growing?

This week: Fingers and toes form, eyelids almost completely cover eyes, breathing tubes lead from throat to lungs. Nerve cells in the brain develop and connect together to form primitive neural pathways, but the external genitals have not yet developed to determine the sex of the baby. The child is already constantly moving and moving, although you may not yet feel it.

Important: the development of each child is purely individual. Our information is designed to give you an overview of fetal development.

Given the characteristic posture of the embryo in the uterus, it is customary to determine its length from the coccyx to the crown of the head. The norm of the coccygeal-parietal size - CTE at 8 weeks of gestation - is no more than 2-2.5 cm, and half of this length falls on the head. Weight ranges over a fairly wide range - from 5 to 13 grams. Also, ultrasound determines the average inner diameter of the ovum - SVD

It should be emphasized that, despite such dimensions, at this time all fetal tissues have already differentiated and almost all of its internal organs have formed: the brain (there is a wall of the hemispheres, the cerebellum and the medulla oblongata, the rudiments of the cortex and the medulla), the heart (which already has 4 chambers), stomach, intestines, kidneys, liver (with bile ducts). The eyes have become closer to the bridge of the nose, but have not yet been closed for centuries; the tip of the nose and the upper lip stand out. On ultrasound, the lower and upper limbs are clearly visible. Moreover, the fetus is already beginning to move them, which indicates the functioning of neurons.

The last stage is the formation of the fetal blood vessel system. Although his blood circulation is still chorionic (placental will begin only from 13 weeks, when the placenta is fully formed), the fetus already has its own blood group at 8 weeks of gestation. The first lymph nodes are also present.

The 8th week of pregnancy is decisive in the development of the gonads of the fetus, that is, in determining the sex of the unborn child. If the Y-chromosome gene, potentially determining male sex, is present in the embryo's genome, then the embryo has a 46XY chromosome set, and it will be a boy. In the absence of the Y chromosome, the 46XX karyotype is activated, and then female genital organs begin to form from the urogenital ridges of the embryo, and a girl will be born.

By the way, twins of 8 weeks of pregnancy develop identically to singleton pregnancy, but the expectant mother may feel sick a little more and a little longer - not until 12 weeks, but up to about 16 weeks.

Pathologies at the 8th week of pregnancy: uterine tone, pain and various secretions

The tone of the uterus at the 8th week of pregnancy - that is, the tension of its muscular membrane (myometrium) - is constantly changing. And this is a physiologically normal process due to the sympathetic and parasympathetic innervation of the body of the uterus and its cervix.

Outside of pregnancy, the degree of tension or relaxation of the longitudinal and circular fibers of the myometrium is not paid attention.

But hypertonicity - an increased tone of the uterus at 8 weeks of gestation - raises concerns, especially since the period from 8 to 12 weeks is considered a period of increased risk in clinical obstetrics. And this risk lies in the fact that a spontaneous termination of pregnancy at 8 weeks or, more simply, a miscarriage at 8 weeks of pregnancy, may occur.

With an increase in the tone of the anterior wall of the uterus at this time, pregnant women feel how the abdomen becomes hard, at a later date, there may be pain in the lower abdomen of a pulling character. Treatment of this symptom is carried out by taking the drug Dufaston - a synthetic analogue of endogenous progesterone (standard dosage - 20 mg per day, taken only as directed by a doctor - according to a special scheme); No-shpa (one tablet three times a day), as well as magnesium preparations (magnesium citrate, gluconate or lactate, Magne B6) - in a dosage individually set by the doctor.

Pain at 8 weeks of gestation can be different and have several causes. First of all, the stomach hurts at the 8th week of pregnancy with excessive physical exertion and an increase in the tone of the uterus. And also with constipation and problems with the passage of intestinal gases, with chronic diseases of the gastrointestinal tract, myoma, endometriosis, endometrioid cyst and other pathologies not associated with pregnancy.

But most often doctors of antenatal clinics listen to complaints from patients that they have lower back pain at 8 weeks of pregnancy or that their back hurts at 8 weeks of pregnancy. What is the reason for these pains, after all, the period is still short, and women still do not feel the severity of the abdomen? And the reason is that the trophoblast of the fetal chorion, as well as the endometrium of the uterus and the ovaries of the pregnant woman, begin to produce a special hormone relaxin, the task of which is to gradually prepare the woman's musculoskeletal system for childbirth. Relaxin helps to relax the ligaments of the pubic articulation of the pelvic bones, however, this hormone does not differ in selectivity, which also weakens the ligaments of the spinal column.

With an increase or decrease in blood pressure, with acute respiratory viral infections or a cold, with too long sleep in the daytime, a headache often hurts 8 weeks of pregnancy.

Allocations at 8 weeks of gestation are also different, but they must be treated equally carefully.

So, slight yellow discharge at 8 weeks of gestation, which does not cause pain and does not have an unpleasant odor, is considered quite normal. But with profuse vaginal discharge with itching, the development of vaginal candidiasis - thrush should be suspected (Thrush at 8 weeks of gestation - see below).

In theory, menstruation at the 8th week of pregnancy should be absent: after all, the endometrium in the pregnant uterus cannot be rejected. However, there is a so-called daub at the 8th week of pregnancy, which experts in the field of diseases of the female genital area refer to as bleeding. In particular, one-time pink discharge at the 8th week of pregnancy, provoked by the introduction of a blatocyst into the uterine mucosa, can be implantation bleeding. Also, pale pink discharge from the uterus associated with its anatomical abnormalities or myoma is possible. But the most common reason is a very low level of progesterone or hCG in a pregnant woman, which does not cope with the suppression of luteotropin, which initiates cyclical changes in the ovary during ovulation. And in such situations, the only way to maintain pregnancy is hormone-correcting therapy.

Brown discharge at 8 weeks of gestation, and even more so spotting at 8 weeks of pregnancy - against the background of general weakness and pulling painful sensations in the lower abdomen - are a sign of such a dangerous pathology as detachment at 8 weeks of gestation. And this means that the ovum with the embryo has come off the endometrium. Partial detachment of the ovum leads to bruising. In professional medical terminology, this is a retrochorial hematoma at 8 weeks gestation. With partial detachment, doctors manage to maintain the pregnancy.

Low-intensity bleeding at the 8th week of pregnancy "sends a signal" to a woman: pregnancy is threatened with miscarriage - see a doctor immediately!

And bleeding at 8 weeks of gestation (especially if it is intense, blood clots are released, and severe pain in the lower abdominal segment is present) means that a miscarriage occurred at 8 weeks of pregnancy, or the pregnancy was ectopic.

According to gynecologists, an ectopic pregnancy at 8 weeks of gestation has no other options, except for the rupture of the fallopian tube under the pressure of a growing blastocyst. In this case, severe peritoneal bleeding can be fatal.

In addition, there is a frozen pregnancy at 8 weeks - a particularly dangerous stage of intrauterine development. In the presence of a viral infection (rubella, cytomegalovirus, etc.), a shortage of progesterone in the body of a pregnant woman or an excess of testosterone, as well as in the case of embryonic anomalies of a genetic nature, the development of the fetus stops. The woman herself most often does not notice this, and everything results in a spontaneous abortion at 8 weeks.

Tests at the 8th week of pregnancy

For expectant mothers, the following tests are considered mandatory at the 8th week of pregnancy:

• a general blood test (with the determination of the blood group and Rh factor);
• blood chemistry;
• blood test for β-hCG (chorionic gonadotropin);
• a blood test for progesterone levels;
• a blood test for prothrombin (determination of coagulation);
• a blood test for the presence of antibodies to the Rh factor (with a positive Rh factor in the child's father);
• blood test for RPR (syphilis), HIV, HbsAg (hepatitis B), anti-HCV (hepatitis C);
• a blood test for rubella antibodies;
• blood test for herpes (anti-HSV IgG and anti-HSV IgM);
• general urine analysis and urinalysis for protein;
• stool analysis;
• general smear on microflora.

Normal hCG values ​​at 8 weeks of gestation, more precisely from 7 to 10 weeks, are 21000-291000 mU / ml. Such a wide interval of this indicator is explained by the fact that from the moment the ovum is fixed in the uterus up to the 10th gestational week, the content of chorionic gonadotropin in the blood of a pregnant woman practically doubles for every 48 hours. Therefore, a deviation from the norm of hCG downward is regarded by doctors as a dangerous symptom that may be associated with the threat of spontaneous abortion, ectopic (ectopic) or frozen (non-developing) pregnancy. Naturally, twins at 8 weeks gestation will show twice the hCG level.

Progesterone at 8 weeks of gestation is considered normal with values ​​that fluctuate in the range of 9-468 nmol / l (in other units of measurement - 30-39 ng / ml or 4.7-34 μg / l).

Prenatal diagnosis at 8 weeks gestation

Your doctor may recommend a variety of tests to take during pregnancy, from genetic screening to diagnostic tests. Some of these are simple blood tests, while others involve more invasive procedures. Before you agree to a test, ask your doctor to explain the need, potential risks, and possible results to you. Many prenatal tests are for screening, not diagnosis. Latent disease testing also makes sense under certain conditions. But only a diagnostic test can tell for sure if a child has health problems.

During the first trimester, the following may be prescribed:

• Combined screening test: This relatively new test for detecting latent disease consists of viewing the neck area and a blood test to determine the level of proteins. The test is performed between 11 and 13 weeks of gestation. The combined screening test will give information about the likelihood of having Down syndrome, as well as other disorders and problems.
• Chorionic villus sampling: one of the main methods of prenatal cytogenetic and molecular genetic diagnostics, it involves taking a small piece (biopsy) of chorionic tissue using a transvaginal plastic catheter. Chorionic villus sampling can help detect chromosomal abnormalities and other genetic abnormalities. This test is done in the first trimester of pregnancy, usually between 11 and 12 weeks.

Abortion at 8 weeks pregnant

An abortion at the 8th week of pregnancy - artificial termination of pregnancy - can be carried out in a medical institution if the woman does not want to give birth. The deadline for such a "solution to the problem" is no more than 12 weeks. Since 2004, in Ukraine, the possible term for an abortion has been reduced to 22 weeks, but in the period 12 to 22 weeks of gestation, termination of pregnancy is considered a medical abortion. Its implementation, in accordance with the Resolution of the Cabinet of Ministers of Ukraine (No. 144 of February 15, 2006), must have certain medical prerequisites.

The list of such indications includes: tuberculosis (all forms), syphilis, severe forms of viral hepatitis, rubella (including contact with it), HIV (AIDS), cytomegalovirus infection, leprosy (leprosy), the presence of cancer, severe heart failure, aneurysm aorta, acute and chronic renal failure, rheumatoid arthritis, hemolytic and aplastic anemia, purpura, psychosis, epilepsy, chronic alcoholism, substance abuse, etc.

It should be borne in mind that artificial termination of pregnancy at 8 weeks cannot be carried out using the vacuum aspiration method, since it is carried out only for a period of no more than 5 weeks. Therefore, an abortion at the 8th week of pregnancy can be carried out either with the use of medications (the permissible duration is no more than 8 weeks), or by the usual surgical method.

Well-being at the 8th week of pregnancy: colds, thrush, herpes

Unfortunately, well-being at the 8th week of pregnancy does not always please expectant mothers. The hormones mentioned above, among other things, perform an immunosuppressive function, inhibiting the woman's body's ability to resist infections. And this is necessary - to prevent embryo rejection.

So the complaint, they say, got sick at the 8th week of pregnancy, sounds from the lips of many women: in the cold season, ARVI or a cold at 8 weeks of pregnancy occurs in more than half of pregnant women.

Obstetricians assure that the temperature of 37 at the 8th week of pregnancy is not a cause for concern, since such an indicator on the thermometer gives the same progesterone. But subfebrile (37.5-38 ° C) and elevated temperature at 8 weeks of gestation (more than 38 ° C) require special attention and mandatory medical attention. During this period, the high body temperature of a pregnant woman threatens the normal development of the unborn child due to hypoxia. And subfebrile can be not only with a cold, but also with cytomegalovirus, urogenital infections, thyroid disorders.

Although a cold at 8 weeks of gestation is not so harmless: according to the results of constant obstetric monitoring, on average 15% of pregnancies before 12 weeks end in miscarriage due to a cold or flu.

And here a problem arises: practically no drugs can be taken by pregnant women in the first trimester. Therefore, in case of fever, you need to do rubdowns with cool water or a mixture of water with table vinegar (in a 2: 1 ratio). Despite the content of salicylic acid in raspberries with a cold, pregnant women can drink tea with raspberry jam - without overusing, two teaspoons of jam a day at a temperature is enough. And a runny nose at the 8th week of pregnancy is recommended to be treated with rinsing the nasal passages with a solution of table salt (a dessert spoon for 200 ml of boiled water) or sea salt (which is sold in all pharmacies). If you have a severe runny nose and a stuffy nose, you can sniff the cut onion or lubricate under the nose with “Zvezdochka” balm.

When a sore throat at the 8th week of pregnancy helps a warm water-alcohol (3: 1) compress on the neck, gargling with warm saline, a decoction of calendula (a tablespoon of flowers in a glass of water), a solution of furacilin (1 tablet for a glass of water). Relieves pain and inflammation in the throat by gargling with warm boiled water, in which you need to place a tea boat of natural honey and 50 ml of apple cider vinegar (which can be replaced with fresh lemon juice).

Remember that the use of lozenges and lozenges for throat and cough, sprays and drops from the common cold in the first three months of pregnancy is contraindicated. This even applies to such a cough mixture as Pertussin: due to the content of licorice root in it. By the way, such popular medicinal plants as mint, chamomile, sage, oregano, elecampane, yarrow, St. John's wort, thyme and even aloe during pregnancy are prohibited.

Thrush at 8 weeks pregnant

Thrush at the 8th week of pregnancy (vaginal candidiasis or vulvaginitis candidiasis) is a fungal disease that manifests itself in the form of vaginal discharge resembling cottage cheese crumbs with a characteristic sour odor, itching and redness of the skin and mucous membranes of the genitals.

Obstetricians warn that thrush at the 8th week of pregnancy, like other infections of the external genital organs and genital tract of pregnant women, are dangerous because they can lead to:

• infection of the amnion (the inner aqueous amniotic membrane), which is accompanied by the formation of adhesions that impede the normal development of the fetus;
• infection of the chorion (villous amniotic membrane) and inflammation of its walls;
• decrease in the child's body weight;
• spontaneous termination of pregnancy;
• infection of the birth canal during childbirth.

The drug prescribed by most doctors for the treatment of thrush during pregnancy is Pimafucin in the form of vaginal suppositories. According to the instructions, it is necessary to inject one suppository into the vagina once a day (lying down, before bedtime). The standard course of antifungal therapy is 3 to 6 days; it is recommended to use Pimafucin within three days after the cessation of discharge and itching.

We would like to remind you that during pregnancy, any health problems cannot be solved on your own.

Herpes at 8 weeks gestation

The herpes simplex virus (HSV) is not at all simple, because, existing only in the human body, it waits for the right moment when its owner or mistress will weaken the immune system. That is why herpes at the 8th week of pregnancy, as well as during the entire gestation, occurs quite often in the background. But in the first trimester, he is especially dangerous.

Herpes HSV-1 appears on the lips, herpes of the HSV-2 type "took a fancy" to the genitals. Of course, genital herpes is more dangerous, but in any case, herpes at 8 weeks of gestation may cause a medical recommendation to terminate the pregnancy. The defeat of the expectant mother with this virus in the early stages can cause: fetal death and miscarriage, infection of the fetus (neonatal herpes) and neurological pathologies, congenital malformations, the birth of a premature baby.

Wherever herpes appears - an itchy "wav" on the lip or painful blisters causing a strong burning sensation in intimate places - see a doctor immediately!

Herpes HSV-1 is treated with Acyclovir ointment (Gerpevir, Zovirax, etc.), which is considered safe for pregnant women. In the treatment of urogenital herpes in pregnant women up to 12 weeks, the following algorithm can be applied: Acyclovir (intravenous drip infusion), human immunoglobulin (three intravenous injections every other day); brilliant green (outwardly).

Some doctors prescribe to pregnant patients the drug Viferon (based on interferon-α2), produced in the form of an ointment, gel and vaginal suppositories.

Nutrition at 8 weeks of gestation

How to eat right and what to eat at the 8th week of pregnancy are topical questions for many expectant mothers who are afraid to gain extra pounds.

Recall that within 20 weeks from the beginning of pregnancy, women add 30% of their total weight, and the weekly weight gain is on average 300 g. Diets on which you "sat" before pregnancy are excluded!

Nutrition at the 8th week of pregnancy should provide the body with everything it needs: proteins, fats, carbohydrates, trace elements, vitamins. The energy value of the diet for such a period should not be less than 2000 kcal per day.

If you now start listing all the products useful for pregnant women, then you simply won't have enough strength to read this list ... So let's be brief: you need to eat meat, fish and seafood, cereals (cereals and grain bread), dairy products (not very fatty) , vegetable oil (raw pressed) and, of course, vegetables, fruits and berries - in any form. Nothing new, as they say. And you will notice, no nutritionist will recommend cakes, sweets, ice cream cakes or hot dogs during pregnancy. Yes, also - sweet carbonated drinks!

In general, you now know approximately what to eat at the 8th week of pregnancy. We will briefly discuss how nutrition can help in solving problems of pregnant women, such as constipation and flatulence (bloating).

In the first case (for constipation), you need: fiber in the form of whole grain cereals (buckwheat, oatmeal, well-boiled pearl barley), bran bread, legumes (peas, beans, etc.), fresh kefir (a glass every day) , cabbage (any) and all our usual seasonal vegetable set, starting with beets. Don't forget to eat apples, pears, plums (prunes) and citrus fruits, as well as a few nuts and seeds.

And now, what should not be eaten, so as not to torment the bloating at 8 weeks of gestation: animal fats; rye and freshly baked white bread; millet and oatmeal; beans, peas and other legumes (including peanuts); cabbage (any); milk (fresh and dry) and ice cream; potatoes (especially fried); radish and spinach. And also grapes, even in the form of raisins.

Now - by comparison - you can easily make your own list depending on the presence or absence of constipation and flatulence. But what absolutely everyone needs is vitamins at the 8th week of pregnancy.

Vitamins at 8 weeks of gestation

There are not many vitamins in a state of pregnancy. So, the use of products containing them, as well as the intake of vitamin preparations prescribed by a doctor, should be enough to cover the needs of both the mother and the child growing in her bosom.

At any time of the year, vitamin C is needed, which promotes resistance to any microbes and virus, actively regulates lipid metabolism (lowering cholesterol in the blood), positively affects hematopoiesis (the process of blood cell formation) and the hemostasis system (ensuring normal blood clotting).

The most essential vitamins for pregnant women are B vitamins: folic acid (vitamin B9), pyridoxine (B6) and cyanocobalamin (B12).

Thanks to vitamin B9, the likelihood of not delivering the child the time set by nature is reduced.With his participation, the process of formation of neurons in the unborn child proceeds normally, which means that the risk of developing congenital anomalies of the stem nervous system of the fetus (neural tube) and the central nervous system of the newborn is reduced. Folic acid is especially effective in pregnancy when combined with vitamins B6 and B12.

In addition, vitamin B6 improves well-being at 8 weeks of gestation by reducing the intensity of nausea and vomiting. And vitamin B12 regularly protects the liver from any negative influences that it often undergoes while carrying a child.

Inositol (vitamin B8) and choline (vitamin B4) can be used to help vitamin B12 - that is, for the benefit of your liver. Contained in beans, whole grains, grapefruit, sesame seeds, vitamin B8, as well as vitamin B4 (which are rich in cabbage, leafy greens, rice, oatmeal, egg yolk, dairy products) will not only help the liver stay healthy, but also take care of the skin and hair , about the normal functioning of the heart muscle, about the elasticity of blood vessels, and certainly activate intestinal motility.

In conclusion, it remains to answer two frequently asked questions: is it possible at this stage of pregnancy to have sex and ... fly an airplane?

As obstetricians-gynecologists assure, sex at 8 weeks of pregnancy in "moderate doses" and "no frills" has no contraindications - in the absence of complications (bleeding, uterine hypertonicity, etc.). It should also be borne in mind that intimacy can disrupt the normal process of carrying a child in women who have had spontaneous interruptions of previous pregnancies.

A flight at the 8th week of pregnancy - with similar nuances of its course - can also lead to undesirable consequences. So you better ... walk.

The 8th week of pregnancy is a difficult period, try not to complicate it, because you still have 32 (± 2) weeks ahead. Take care of yourself!