The eighth obstetric week of pregnancy: what happens in the body of the mother and fetus? What does the fetus look like at 8 obstetric weeks

Development of pregnancy gives new sensations to the expectant mother. How a child grows, what changes in a woman's body, the necessary tests and doctors - let's try to give detailed answers to popular questions.

Fetal development in the eighth week of pregnancy.

The first trimester is the main stage in the development of pregnancy. At the 8th week of pregnancy, the baby receives a new status - officially he is now a fetus, not a fetus. By this time, the child has formed: the brain, nervous system and bone tissue, internal organs are actively developing: liver, kidneys, stomach, intestines, pancreas, reproductive system. The heart becomes four-chambered, the small tail disappears. By 8 weeks pregnant, your baby has grown to the size of a grape. His height is only 14-20 millimeters, and his weight is 3 grams.

Despite his small size, he already looks like a man. With the help of ultrasound, which will monitor the entire development of pregnancy, you can see tiny arms and legs, a head. Facial features begin to emerge. But it is too early to determine the sex of the child, although the testicles have already formed in the boys, and the ovaries in the girls. But you can observe how actively the baby moves his arms and legs, somersaults.

Feelings of a woman in the eighth week of pregnancy.

Signs of pregnancy are becoming more noticeable, which is not surprising, because the number of hormones that support the development of pregnancy continues to grow. Outwardly, this is manifested by frequent mood swings, tearfulness, drowsiness. Under the influence of hormones, the breasts increase significantly, so the expectant mother needs to choose a comfortable bra. Significantly increases the size of the uterus. Outwardly, this is not at all noticeable yet, but the internal organs are already in a squeezed position. The bladder and intestines are the first to “suffer”, so urination becomes more frequent, constipation may occur. Due to the restructuring of the hormonal background, the nature of the discharge from the vagina may change. If they do not have an unpleasant odor and are not accompanied by itching, then do not worry. Brown discharge from the genital tract, accompanied by pain in the lower back - an occasion to immediately consult a doctor.

For many pregnant women, a big problem for 8 weeks pregnant becomes toxicosis. Salivation, nausea, vomiting do not allow to eat normally. You should be patient, by the end of the first trimester, the hormonal background will become more stable, and this unpleasant symptom will pass. Do not postpone a visit to the doctor if vomiting recurs more than once or twice a day.

Visiting a doctor in the eighth week of pregnancy.

8 week pregnancy- it's time to be registered in the antenatal clinic. It would not be superfluous to recall that a woman who has registered in the early stages (up to 12 obstetric weeks) is entitled to an additional lump-sum payment to the pregnancy and childbirth allowance.

On the first visit, the doctor will conduct a full examination, write out a referral for tests, and select a vitamin complex.

The list of necessary analyzes and studies, as a rule, includes:

clinical blood test
blood chemistry
hCG blood test
general urine analysis
analysis for HIV, viral hepatitis, TORCH infection
electrocardiogram
Ultrasound of the uterus and appendages

In addition to visiting a gynecologist, a woman needs to visit other specialists: a therapist, dentist, venereologist. Be sure to warn the doctor about your delicate situation! Especially if you have a chronic disease that requires medication on an ongoing basis. Taking certain medications may adversely affect the development of pregnancy. At the end of the second month, the fetus is very susceptible to negative influences from the outside. Therefore, it is better to postpone X-ray and fluorography for later. In the second trimester, it is worth transferring dental treatment. Remember, now you are responsible not only for your health, but also for the health of your child.

Certainly, pregnancy is not a disease. But your body now has a colossal load on the life support of the child. A pregnant woman, like no one else, must observe the regime of work and rest. Delegate some household chores to your husband or relatives, be sure to get enough sleep, walk in the fresh air. If you were seriously involved in sports before pregnancy, coordinate the load with your doctor, lifting weights is now undesirable.

From bad habits, if any, you need to get rid of in the near future. The fetus is now the most vulnerable, it already receives nutrition from the mother's body through the umbilical cord, but the placenta, a natural filter, has not yet fully formed.

A woman should pay a little more attention to her diet. Remember that yeast dough, legumes and fresh bread cause gas and flatulence, and eating salty foods retains fluid in the body, leading to swelling.

Except in special cases (threatened miscarriage, twin pregnancy) sex does not affect the development of pregnancy. But partners should be careful in choosing positions, it is better to avoid pressure on the stomach and deep penetration.

The second month of your pregnancy is coming to an end - a very difficult and crucial period when all the baby's organs are laid down. During this period, the expectant mother should be as careful as possible: the action of negative factors can affect the health of the baby. Despite the fact that your baby is still very small, he already looks like a little man: with an ultrasound at this time, you can already clearly distinguish his head and torso, the dimensions of which are now almost the same, arms and legs, eyes, ears begin to develop.

The pace of development of the embryo is now simply amazing: daily vital changes occur with it. His organs begin to work actively, he receives nutrition through the umbilical cord. At the 8th week of pregnancy, the size of the baby is close to a grape: its weight is about 3 g, and its height is 1.5 - 2 centimeters.

How many months have passed? This week completes the second month of pregnancy. If you have an 8 obstetric week of pregnancy, this means that about six weeks have passed since fertilization (obstetricians consider the gestational age from the first day of the last menstruation, because it is almost impossible to determine exactly when a woman ovulated and fertilization occurred, only if it was not specifically carried out tests).

What happens in the 8th week of pregnancy?

This period of pregnancy is characterized by the continuation of organogenesis. Every day his body is improving, the foundations of all organs and systems have already been laid. Mom also feels changes in her condition: subjective signs of pregnancy at week 8 are becoming more and more distinct. It's time to make the first visit to the gynecologist, and if you do not have a regular doctor - find one. According to statistics, in women whose pregnancy is monitored by a doctor from the first trimester, childbirth is easier and healthier children are born. Now visits to the doctor will be scheduled once a month, closer to the end of pregnancy - more often. This will allow you to get answers to exciting questions, so feel free to ask them.

The development of the embryo continues. Last week, his brain has already divided into three main sections, now they are being improved.

The period of 7-8 weeks of pregnancy is characterized by the formation of fingers on the arms and legs of the baby. The embryo still has a tail, it gradually begins to disappear.

Changes occur in the abdominal cavity of the embryo. The formation of the intestine begins. Its middle part is shifted into the umbilical cord, since there is not enough space for it in the abdominal cavity. After just a month, when the abdominal cavity becomes more spacious, part of the intestine, which is now located in the umbilical cord, will return to it.

The peripheral nervous system of the baby is also actively formed. Already there is an innervation of some muscles. If you could touch the baby's body, you would feel a sharp tug in response.

The embryo has almost formed a four-chambered heart. It already sends blood to large vessels. The bronchi branch out, the kidneys form. The rudiments of the genital organs begin to form.

The baby's facial features begin to form. There are already eyes, which are still tightly closed for centuries and are located on the lateral surfaces of the head. Ears, lips are formed, you can distinguish the nose, which is still closed.

The walls of the oral cavity of the embryo already have muscle tissue, the formation of salivary glands, papillae of the tongue begins.

The arms and legs of the baby can already bend - large joints are formed. The baby can already move.

Baby photo, ultrasound

Proper nutrition

Now your diet should be thought out to the smallest detail. This is easier to do if there is no pronounced nausea and aversion to food. If the toxicosis is pronounced, you need to try to eat more foods that are healthy and easily tolerated, fruits, vegetables.

Amino acids are the building blocks of all cells, so protein must be present in sufficient quantities in your diet. It is desirable that the menu contains a variety of protein foods: meat, fish, cottage cheese, eggs. After all, the baby is now growing very actively, his organs and systems are being formed.

Be sure to include foods that help prevent constipation in your daily diet. These are products such as dried apricots, prunes, kiwi, bananas, natural yogurt, pumpkin, cabbage, plums, apricots, apples. They are also a source of vitamins, antioxidants, trace elements.

Include enough dairy products in your diet. They contain protein, calcium, vitamins. Many mothers note that with toxicosis, lactic acid products are well tolerated. Take advantage of it! You can add your favorite fruits to yogurt or kefir.

In order to prevent vomiting after eating, try to eat small portions, but often. This will be very useful to you in later pregnancy, when the growing tummy will squeeze the stomach.

To reduce the symptoms of toxicosis, improve well-being, drink more fluids. Better clean water, you can add fresh lemon juice to it - you get a wonderful refreshing drink that reduces nausea. Rosehip tea is also very useful. It is advisable to cook it in a thermos - let it brew for 8-10 hours. Such a drink strengthens the immune system, has a beneficial effect on the urinary system, and besides, it is very tasty.

Mom's Feelings

At this time, you already fully feel the change in your condition. The level of hormones continues to change, you notice that your mood often changes, drowsiness appears. Often women report dizziness. Experts believe that first of all, you need good sleep, good nutrition, an adequate level of physical activity and a good mood - and your well-being will improve significantly.

The uterus at the 8th week of pregnancy gradually increases in size. Now it does not exceed the size of your fist, but very soon you will notice that the tummy is already starting to round.

Even though the uterus is not yet too big, you may already experience frequent urge to urinate. Some expectant mothers at the same time try to limit the amount of liquid they drink, but this is absolutely wrong. You should drink at least two liters of pure water per day - this will ensure normal metabolism, cleansing the body of metabolic products, and the formation of the required amount of amniotic fluid.

Quite often, the first trimester of pregnancy is accompanied by toxicosis. This condition is due to the development of the fetal egg, hormonal changes in the body. Toxicosis is manifested by changes in the central nervous system, vascular, metabolic disorders.

The most common signs of toxicity are nausea and vomiting. A woman may feel that even previously favorite foods are disgusting, her appetite is reduced, vomiting may occur, more often in the morning. There is also profuse salivation. However, such phenomena do not occur in all expectant mothers, so you do not need to set yourself up that it will be so. Very often, mothers endure pregnancy without toxicosis.

At a period of 8.9 weeks of pregnancy, some women notice a change in facial features: the lips may become more plump, the nose is slightly enlarged. But such changes are also strictly individual. They are associated with hormonal changes in the body.

Almost all expectant mothers notice that breasts increase during pregnancy. It may become more dense and slightly painful, but this is normal, because the body is preparing to feed the baby now. Subcutaneous veins may protrude on the chest. Choose a suitable bra made of natural fabric, without underwire, which will not squeeze the chest.

At this time, you may experience taste perversions. Appetite can be reduced, and sometimes you just want incompatible products or just those dishes that were rarely on your menu before. If these foods are useful - feel free to eat them. But changes in the hormonal background sometimes lead to the fact that you want by no means the most healthy dishes, so be careful.

Changing your appearance also affects the skin of your face. In some pregnant women, the skin becomes clearer, the color evens out. And sometimes there may be rashes, peeling, itching. If these symptoms bother you, consult a dermatologist. Perhaps now you need specialized skin care.

Discharge at 8 weeks pregnant

The nature of the vaginal discharge should not change significantly. It is acceptable if they become more abundant. An alarming symptom is the appearance of spotting - this is a sign of termination of pregnancy, and this condition requires medical care. During the period of bearing a baby, a woman's immunity decreases, so chronic inflammatory diseases can worsen, and the risk of developing bacterial, fungal vaginosis increases. If the discharge has acquired a yellow, greenish color, a curdled consistency - this is a sign of inflammation. In this case, you must definitely consult a doctor in order to prescribe the correct treatment, effective and safe for the baby.

Pregnancy 8 weeks, twins

If you are carrying twins, your uterus will be slightly larger. Babies are actively developing, and the video “8 weeks of pregnancy” shows how they move their arms, legs, and can tilt their heads. Otherwise, your well-being should not differ. You need good nutrition, enough sleep, outdoor activities and the support of loved ones, because two babies is a double burden, but also a double joy!

Pain at 8 weeks pregnant

The first trimester of pregnancy is often accompanied by increased uterine tone, which can manifest itself in different ways: from a feeling of heaviness and tension in the lower abdomen to severe pain. It is considered normal if, after a small load, a long, fast walk, there is a feeling of tension in the uterus, and after rest, this disappears. If the pain is intense, be sure to consult a doctor: you may need medication to prevent hypertonicity and the threat of abortion.

The gradual increase in the size of the uterus can lead to the fact that the sciatic nerve is somewhat compressed. This condition can occur even in the eighth week. It manifests itself as pain in the lumbar region, radiating to the leg. If you lie on the other side, the pain will decrease.

Required studies and analyzes

If you are registered at the antenatal clinic at this time, you will be assigned all primary studies: antibodies to pathogens of infectious diseases and others. In addition, the doctor will conduct an examination, determine the duration of pregnancy, prepare documentation, and issue you an exchange card.

You will also be given a referral for an ultrasound, which will need to be done for a period of 11-14 weeks. This is the first screening ultrasound examination that allows to exclude chromosomal pathology, fetal malformations, as well as accurately determine the gestational age of the fetus.

Useful video

Questions - answers

I had pain in the lumbar region at the 8th week of pregnancy. What could it be?

The causes of pain in the lumbar region can be different: compression or pinching of the nerve, inflammation of the kidneys, irradiation of pain with increased uterine tone. You need to be examined by a doctor to rule out diseases that threaten the baby, and prescribe an effective treatment.

Is it possible to do an ultrasound at the 8th week of pregnancy?

Ultrasound examination at this time is carried out according to indications from the mother or fetus. At this time, it is difficult to assess the development of the child, because he is still too small, all organs and systems have not been formed. The optimal time for the first ultrasound is 11–13 weeks. At this time, the baby is already quite developed, and you can measure all the necessary parameters, exclude chromosomal pathology, developmental anomalies.

Why does brown discharge occur at 8 weeks of pregnancy?

The appearance of dark secretions may be a sign of trauma to the vaginal mucosa, for example, after a gynecological examination, because during pregnancy the mucous membrane changes, becomes looser and is easily damaged. In this case, the allocation is single. But this symptom may indicate a threat of termination of pregnancy. Therefore, if brown discharge is prolonged, accompanied by abdominal pain, you should definitely consult a doctor.

I have a fever at 8 weeks pregnant. Can paracetamol be taken?

This drug is acceptable for use during pregnancy, but you should consult a doctor to find out the cause of the fever. Temperature can be a sign not only of a common cold, but also of more serious diseases that pose a danger to the baby.

At the end of the second month of pregnancy, it is important to avoid negative factors that affect the formation of fetal organs. Right now, every day of its development is important, because vital systems are being formed. At the 8th obstetric week of pregnancy, about 6 weeks have passed from the moment of conception. If a woman has not conducted special testing, it is impossible to accurately determine the time of ovulation.

The course of pregnancy at 8 weeks

The development and formation of the child's organs continues, the functioning of existing systems is improved. A woman cannot but feel changes in her body, because at this time they are quite distinct. If a woman has not yet registered with the antenatal clinic, it is now important to undergo a health screening by contacting an obstetrician-gynecologist. According to medical research, women who are observed from the first weeks of pregnancy tolerate it better, they have easier childbirth, children are born with high health indicators. At this time, you can visit the antenatal clinic monthly, then once every 2 weeks or more often.

At this time, the fetus looks like a little man - it has limbs with fingers, a head on a well-defined neck, eyes, a nose on the face, and auricles on the head.

Fruit size:

Weight - 3 g;

Length - 1.5-2 cm.

He has the ability to move his limbs and bend them, because large joints are formed in the fetus. The peripheral nervous system is so organized that the innervation of large muscles occurs. If it were possible to touch the body of the fetus, one could feel its jerk in the opposite direction from the impact.

Fetal development at 8 weeks of gestation:

The heart consists of 4 chambers, it sends blood through large vessels, making up to 150-170 beats per minute.

The rudiments of the genital organs develop, the testicles in boys, the ovaries in girls;

Its main features are formed on the face: a nose covered with mucus, eyelids, lips, ear fold;

Salivary glands appear in the mouth, taste buds appear on the tongue;

The tail of the lower half of the spinal column is transformed into the coccyx;

The fetal stomach occupies a place in the middle of the abdominal cavity;

The intestine is formed, before the increase in the abdominal cavity, temporarily shifting into the umbilical cord;

Parts of the fetal brain develop, the first convolutions appear on its surface;

The trunk is slightly lengthened and straightened;

The release of the diaphragm begins, the development of the bronchial tree;

The formation of cartilage and bones continues, osteogenesis will be completed only by the age of 25.

Tiny organs begin to function - the kidneys secrete urine, the stomach - gastric juice.

Video about the 8th week of intrauterine life of the fetus:

Ultrasound - what does the study show?

The size of the fetus at this stage of pregnancy is approximately equal to a grape or raspberry. Since it, despite its size, is already moving in the amniotic fluid, the fetus may turn sideways or head towards the scanner. In this case, either an elongated body or a round head is visible. You can see how the fetus moves its legs or arms. The heart rate can be registered with ultrasound, the heartbeat can be heard and the number of beats can be counted.

During pregnancy with twins, you can see a more significant increase in the uterus, the movement of both fetuses (moving the limbs, tilting the head). Mothers should be especially attentive to their well-being because of the double burden on the body.

The uterus at week 8 is 7-8 cm in diameter. For clarity, it can be compared with a goose egg or a grapefruit. During a gynecological examination, this increase is easy to distinguish, it can be seen that it is soft, the isthmus is softened, and the external pharynx of the cervical canal is closed. The uterus has not yet risen, it presses on the internal organs, on the bladder, causing frequent urination.

The increase in the uterus still has almost no effect on the appearance of a woman, the stomach does not increase. But the breast increases, becoming more dense and painful, a venous network appears on its surface. It is important during this period to choose comfortable underwear made from natural materials, to carry out air baths for the breast, preparing it for breastfeeding.

Hormonal restructuring of the body can affect the appearance of a pregnant woman - her nose increases, her lips become more plump. These changes are individual, not all women show up. The skin of the face and body also responds to the action of hormones, it can take on an almost perfect appearance, or it can become covered with blackheads and begin to peel off.

It is important to take precautions for the preservation and normal course of pregnancy:

Do not drink alcohol, do not smoke;

Switch from more hazardous production to easy work;

Do not use anesthesia during the rehabilitation of teeth;

Do not undergo x-ray examination;

Do not walk in high-heeled shoes to relieve the load from the legs and for.

Sensations at week 8 - toxicosis and other symptoms

Feelings at week 8 are subjective, each woman has her own range of sensations. Some pregnant women feel great, not feeling significant changes in their condition. Other women become practically incapacitated due to the symptoms of toxicosis:

Increased fatigue;

Irritability, emotional instability;

Increased appetite or lack of it.

With strong manifestations of early toxicosis, pregnancy is at risk. A woman needs to see a doctor, undergo treatment in a hospital.

Video about the 8th week of pregnancy, characteristic symptoms, early toxicosis, pain:

The uterus increases in size, in the supine position it presses and irritates the sciatic nerve. This causes pain in the hips and pelvis. To get rid of pain, you need to reduce the impact of the uterus on the nerve. This is achieved by turning over to the other side.

Another source of pain can be the bladder. Frequent urination should not normally be painful. Urine remains clean and clear. If pain accompanies urination, and the urine becomes cloudy, flakes appear in it, an admixture of blood - it is possible that the woman has cystitis.

Cystitis of pregnant women often occurs during the gestational period due to a decrease in the woman's immunity. If it is not treated, complications are possible in the form of pyelonephritis, pyelitis.

At week 8, training contractions can begin - a special condition of the uterus that a woman will face until the very birth. Their sign may be a short-term tension in the lower abdomen. If at the same time no pain is felt, there is no atypical vaginal discharge, you don’t have to worry - a mild spasm of the muscles of the uterus will end quickly.

Discharge of blood from the vagina at this stage of pregnancy indicates the threat of miscarriage. The more abundant the discharge, the longer the bleeding lasts, the less likely it is to keep the pregnancy. Additionally, there are painful cramps in the lower abdomen, pulling pain in the lower back. Bleeding can last for several days. It is important for such symptoms to immediately consult a doctor, to observe bed rest.

Attachment to severe bleeding of inclusions in the form of blood clots, tissue particles indicates the detachment of the fetal egg from the uterus. In this case, the cervix opens, pushing the fetus out after short contractions. With such a development of events, pregnancy cannot be saved.

Causes of spontaneous abortion:

genetic pathology;

bacterial infection or STD;

Physical and mental overload;

Side effects of drugs;

Bad habits;

Thermal exposure during UV irradiation or in a solarium, in a sauna.

Normal vaginal discharge has a clear consistency, small volume, lactic acid smell. The addition of itching, burning, purulent or mucous inclusions indicates the defeat of the reproductive organs by infectious diseases.

Brown bloody vaginal discharge, accompanied by dizziness, pain in the lower abdomen and lower back, weakness, may be a symptom of a miscarriage, detachment of the fetal egg from the uterine wall. With a small amount of discharge, there is a chance to save the fetus with timely treatment.

At the 8th week of the gestational period, an ectopic pregnancy cannot occur, it occurs at an earlier date.

Early registration in the antenatal clinic will help to detect and cure latent pathologies in time. To issue an exchange card for a pregnant woman, the following examination is carried out:

a conversation with a gynecologist about living and working conditions, about the presence of sick relatives, about previous births and pregnancies;

Measurement of women's height and weight, blood pressure;

General blood test to determine the level of leukocytes and erythrocytes;

With each week of embryonic development, important biological changes occur in the baby's body. The child is growing and developing rapidly.

How do doctors determine the term?

Doctors use a special system for calculating the age of the fetus in their daily practice. They measure in obstetric months and weeks. Thus, the 8th obstetric week of pregnancy is equivalent to the 6th week from the date of conception of the child.

Expectant mothers often use the calendar method. They calculate the age of the baby from the immediate date of conception.

To determine the obstetric period, doctors use the date of the first day of the last menstrual cycle before pregnancy. This method of calculation is more accurate and has been used by doctors for quite a long time. The entire period of bearing a baby with an obstetric counting method is 280 days or forty weeks. It is best for expectant mothers to use a common system with doctors for calculating the age of the child.

The 8th week of pregnancy is accompanied by the appearance of various sensations in a pregnant woman. Her mood and emotional background changes, pulling pains in the abdomen appear. Many women begin to get tired faster. Specific changes develop not only in the mother's body. In the first weeks of pregnancy, the child is actively undergoing the process of formation of internal organs.

Such a huge jump in intrauterine development is possible only during the first trimester of pregnancy. Several weeks have passed since the fusion of germ cells. During this time, a small organism has already formed from several cells.

What is happening with the baby?

In this period of pregnancy, doctors call the baby in the mother's belly an embryo. It is so small that it can only be determined by ultrasound. This period of intrauterine life is extremely important. At this time, the laying of all vital organs and systems is actively continuing. If it happens qualitatively, then the children's body will continue to function fully.

The size of the embryo at this stage is very small. It is 15 mm long. The weight of the child is very small: it is only 2 grams. In addition to the formation of the body, the internal organs begin to actively form in the embryo. Kidneys, liver are laid. In a small embryo, the pancreas and stomach have already formed.

Interestingly, even in this early period of pregnancy, the formation of gastric juice occurs.

At this stage, the child has already formed a heart. Moreover, it is already beating. A small embryo weighing 2 grams already has its own heartbeat. This is a true natural wonder.

The baby's heart by this period of pregnancy has a four-chamber structure. A septum appears between the atria. This structure is normal for the entire human population.

The baby's heartbeat is an important clinical sign. It is determined during an ultrasound examination. To calculate it, the number of heartbeats in one minute is determined. If the heart of the embryo beats too fast, then in this case, doctors set tachycardia. With a decrease in the number of contractions of heart contractions within a minute, bradycardia.

It is important that the baby's heartbeat remains within the normal range. This condition indicates that the cardiovascular system of the embryo is functioning well.

It is very important to regularly evaluate the baby's heartbeat over time. Significant deviations from the norm may indicate that various pathologies of the course of pregnancy are manifested in this way. This stage of embryonic development is also accompanied by the laying of the digestive and respiratory systems. Lungs will be finally formed in the future. Their full functioning is possible only after the birth of the baby.

The bronchial tree is also transformed. The bronchi that form it begin to branch out. In the future, their diameter and clearance will change.

Also at 7-8 weeks of pregnancy, the child's reproductive system is formed. The reproductive organs are just beginning to form. But you can determine the sex of the fetus a little later. By this stage of pregnancy, the child's nervous system is almost completely formed. Also, by this period, the main anatomical elements of the brain were formed.

This stage of intrauterine development is accompanied by the active formation of the musculoskeletal system. The mobility of small children's joints gradually increases.

The muscular apparatus of the child is well developed, but it is difficult to notice due to the small size of the embryo. Not only the muscular apparatus of the body is actively developing, but also the smooth muscle muscles of the internal organs are being formed.

In a small embryo, the chewing and facial muscles, the muscles of the arms and legs, as well as the pharynx, are already well developed. The lower limbs at this period of intrauterine development are somewhat "behind" the upper ones. An increase in dynamic functions leads to the fact that the baby's nervous system continues to form and develop. Gradually, internal organs begin to respond to the influence of nerve impulses. This is necessary in order for the digestive system to continue to develop actively.

In the embryo, the diaphragm gradually begins to be outlined. External secretion glands (sweat, salivary) continue their active development.

The first supporting structures necessary for the development of the embryo begin to transform at this stage. The chorionic villi gradually turn into the placenta. In the future, through the placenta, the baby will receive all the necessary nutritional components for its intrauterine development. This stage is accompanied by the initial formation of the immune system. The child is actively developing the thymus gland. In the future, this organ of immunity will be filled with lymphocytic cells.

What does an embryo look like?

At such an early stage of pregnancy, a small embryo in its own way appearance already resembles a small person. His body is elongated. Even the face of the fetus at this stage of its embryonic development is changing. The eyes become visible. They look quite large as they are missing eyelids. Also at this stage of pregnancy, the first rudiments of the retina and color pigments of the eyes appear. The eye sockets are clearly visible. The eyes are closer to the temporal areas of the child's head. In the future, the face of the child will be transformed, which will lead to a convergence of the eyes.

The nose has already a clearer contour, but still remains flat. Gradually, the nerve endings of the olfactory analyzer begin to form. The baby's nostrils are covered at this stage of its development with mucous plugs. Active gum formation occurs in the oral cavity. Even the rudiments of milk teeth begin to appear. The contour of the upper lip is well defined.

Taste buds are already forming on the baby's tongue. In the future, these nerve endings will change and improve, but the basic laying occurs already by this period.

In a small embryo, which is actively developing in the mother's womb, ears begin to form. The first rudiments of small fingers appear on the hands and feet. At this stage, they are not yet spliced together. After a while they will separate. The active development of the nervous and musculoskeletal system contributes to the fact that the joints become more mobile.

In some babies at this stage of their development, when conducting an ultrasound examination, you can see small movements in large joints. This is usually manifested by small shaking movements of the hands.

In the future, the baby will develop and become more active.. With each week of pregnancy, the number of movements made by the child increases. The child carries out small oscillatory movements in the mother's womb, but it is so small that the woman does not feel the motor activity of her baby at this stage of pregnancy. By this period, the final formation of large blood vessels occurs. They are necessary for the proper nutrition of the child during his intrauterine development.

How is baby development diagnosed?

To determine the main parameters of the fetus, doctors use ultrasound examination methods. They are assigned to all expectant mothers to confirm the fact of pregnancy, as well as to exclude the ectopic form.

At this time, a rather dangerous pathology is a tubal pregnancy. In this case, the development of the baby does not occur in the uterine cavity, but in its appendages. In this case, the full development of the child is impossible. A tubal pregnancy always ends tragically. With the help of modern ultrasound studies, the location of the fetus can be very accurately determined. With multiple pregnancies, the position of each baby is assessed separately.

Despite the tiny size of the child, ultrasound doctors can determine the length of his torso. So, the coccyx-parietal size at this stage of pregnancy is approximately a couple of centimeters.

For the active and full development of the embryo, an aquatic environment is required. The diameter of the gestational egg, which contains the amniotic fluid, at this stage is about 3 centimeters. When conducting an ultrasound examination, the condition of the reproductive organs of the mother is also necessarily assessed. The structure of the uterus is assessed, its tone is determined.

With the help of a Doppler study, specialists can determine the main indicators of blood flow in the main uterine blood vessels. Using this diagnostic method, you can assess how well the blood supply to the uterus occurs. Adequate blood flow is necessary for the baby in the womb to fully grow and develop.

To assess the growth of the fetus, an ultrasound examination is performed in dynamics. In this way, the doctor can assess how well the baby is developing.

If a woman is carrying several children at the same time, then she may need more ultrasound examinations. The frequency of their appointment is determined by the obstetrician-gynecologist.

Ultrasound at this stage of pregnancy can be performed in different ways. The most commonly used is the transvaginal method. In this case, the study is carried out using a sensor that is inserted into the vagina. The transvaginal research method at this stage of pregnancy allows you to get more accurate and reliable results. This technique has a number of contraindications. If they were identified, then in this case a transabdominal ultrasound is performed.

Many mothers-to-be worry about whether they will need any preparation before conducting a study. At this stage of pregnancy, as a rule, no special preparatory procedures are required. Often, expectant mothers begin to get very worried before conducting a study. You can understand their excitement: they are very worried about the result and the presence of any pathologies in the child.

You should not worry: from the early weeks of pregnancy, the baby feels all the experiences of the mother. A calm and balanced mood during a diagnostic study is simply necessary.

Ultrasound in early pregnancy allows you to timely identify various pathologies in both the expectant mother and her baby. It is very important to conduct such an examination for women who have difficulty bearing babies and various gynecological diseases. If a woman has a burdened history of genetic and chromosomal diseases, then an ultrasound examination allows timely detection of their signs in the fetus.

Dangerous timing

During this period, the fetus is actively developing and this, of course, entails the continuation of changes in the female body. In addition to the fact that the expectant mother is changing physically, there are also changes on the psychological level. Now the tummy is not yet visible, but you and those around you notice that you often stroke the tummy. This suggests that you have already fully realized the fact of bearing your beloved child, and, stroking your stomach, as if telling him and yourself: “Everything will be fine!” With these movements, you subconsciously give the installation to yourself and the child that he is in comfort and coziness, which is very important for both of you during this period.

What happens in the female body?

The main feeling that continues to torment a pregnant woman will be toxicosis. Yes, this period is difficult and difficult for future mother, but after the end of the third trimester, toxicosis will end.

Due to the fact that the body continues to rebuild: hormones change under the pressure of the fetus, the uterus grows, another new sensation may appear - heaviness in the lower abdomen. If this heaviness does not bother you often, do not worry, this is normal.

Heaviness in the legs may be felt, this is due to the fact that during pregnancy additional blood flow appears, blood circulation in the body increases to provide your and your baby's internal organs with all the necessary nutrients. Over time, heaviness in the legs may increase due to the fact that you are gradually gaining weight.

Now your belly is starting to grow. Yes, it is barely noticeable, but you will no longer be able to fit into your favorite jeans. It is at the 8th week of pregnancy that you will begin to notice that you do not always fit into your things. It's time to change your wardrobe for more free things.

Also during this period, the breast continues to prepare for future feeding, it aches and noticeably increased in size, the nipples become darker. You can already notice that your bra is squeezing your breasts. It's time to change your underwear for a larger size. Or get special T-shirts for pregnant women.

Aching pains in the lumbar region may appear, which radiate to the buttocks and thighs. This symptom is caused by pinching of the sciatic nerve. Pinching occurs due to the fact that the uterus in the process of growth begins to put pressure on the sciatic nerve. To reduce the pain, lie on the opposite side, that is, on the side that does not hurt, thereby reducing the pressure of the uterus on the nerve, thereby relieving the pain.

What needs to be done this week?

First of all, contact a gynecologist, register with the antenatal clinic, if you have not done so before. After all, now you need to be examined and a specialist should monitor your pregnancy so that it proceeds without problems and incidents.

From the beginning of the 8th week, you need to start being examined by doctors, such as a general practitioner, 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 have thyroid diseases, be sure to consult a doctor at the eighth week, because it is during this period that the child's own thyroid gland begins to function. Your illness can cause your child to malfunction, which can lead to serious problems. So it is extremely necessary to contact an endocrinologist who will prescribe the necessary medications.

If your blood is Rh-negative and your father is Rh-positive, you should consult a doctor to prescribe medication for prevention in order to avoid the risk of death and damage to the fetus.

At week 8, there should not be any bleeding from the genital tract, if you have even the slightest sign, be sure to consult a doctor, this may mean the onset of a miscarriage.

It's time to change your shoes, stop walking in heels. And not because you may start to develop varicose veins. It's just that every time you stand on your heels, at this time the location of the uterus changes, which negatively affects the condition of the baby. So it's time to buy light ballet shoes, you and your baby will be more comfortable in them. Of course, you can walk on a stiletto heel, but now less often and try to keep the heel no higher than 4 cm.

You can lead an intimate life if you do not have deviations from the norm of fetal development. A contraindication may be bloody discharge, multiple pregnancy, pain in the lower abdomen and if you are at risk when carrying a fetus.

And of course, remember about nutrition - more vitamins, fruits and vegetables. And of course, eat what you really want now. Do not forget that healthy food is the key to the health of your baby.

Fetal development

The size of the fruit is like a grape - 14-20 mm, and weighing 3 grams. This little organism already has a new status, now it is called a fetus. During this period, the placenta continues to develop, blood circulation between the uterus and the placenta improves. From the 8th week of pregnancy, the baby began to look even more like a little man. You can clearly see the arms, legs, head, face. Fingers are clearly visible on the arms and legs. On the hands they no longer have membranes. Joints appeared, legs and arms are already bent.

The face stands out more and more, acquiring a human shape, now the upper and lower lips are distinguishable. The jaw is clearly visible, the forehead develops. Cilia appeared on the eyes, and the auricles are already beginning to appear.

Your baby's internal organs are also continuing to form. The brain is already formed. The nervous system is improving, in connection with this, the baby begins to actively move, but the mother still does not feel it, since he is still very small. The heart has already become four-chambered.

Last week, the genital tubercle formed, and now the genital organs are already starting to develop from it, in boys - testicles, and in girls - ovaries. But the sex of the child with the help of ultrasound is still impossible to determine.

The respiratory system is also improving, the chest develops, the lungs are formed. The stomach and intestines take their final shape and take the right place in the child's body, and the first intestinal loop is also formed. The baby's body has already begun to straighten, the skeleton is being improved, the skull bone is being formed.

So, all the internal organs of the child are formed, now they will only improve, and the baby at this time will grow and gain weight.

This is what a fetus looks like in a woman's body

Superstitions worth debunking

About three weeks ago, you found out you were pregnant. And now you have already got used to the idea that you will have a baby. Now you are looking forward to the changes in yourself and waiting for the birth of the baby. During this period, a woman often becomes superstitious. So, some superstitions can be dispelled.

They say that you can not dye your hair during pregnancy. No - you can. Indeed, during this period it is very important for a woman to be beautiful. The chemical composition in the paint can in no way affect the development of the child. Manicures and pedicures can also be done. Take care of yourself, love yourself, this will give you positive emotions, which is so necessary for Have a good mood during the childbearing period.
You can not cut your hair during pregnancy. The fact that you cut your hair will certainly not affect the baby. The only thing that can affect is your emotional state. After all, if you strongly believe that you can’t cut your hair, then when you cut your hair, your body will experience great stress and, naturally, your depressed state can harm the child.

During this period, many women can become superstitious and believe in all signs. Try to be easy on them. After all, they are not actually facts.

Video

Photo of the embryo on ultrasound

Now you can still be whiny or irritable, so rest more, sleep. Watch your condition, load yourself psychologically less. After all, your mental health is the physical health of your baby.