Week 8: Baby's Facial Features Become More Defined

Facial features continue developing rapidly: nostrils are visible, eyelids are forming (though they'll stay fused shut for a while yet), and the outer ear structures are starting to take shape.

Fingers and toes are beginning to form on the hand and foot paddles, though they're still webbed at this point. Your baby is now making small spontaneous movements, even though you can't feel them yet.

The tail-like structure at the bottom of the spine that was present in earlier weeks has now disappeared as the body proportions shift toward looking more recognizably human.

Your uterus continues growing and is now roughly the size of a large lemon. Some women start to notice their waistbands feeling tighter, though this is often more bloating than visible bump at 8 weeks.

At 8 weeks, you may experience:

• Nausea, often at its peak around this time
• Extreme fatigue
• Breast changes including darkening areolas
• Frequent urination
• Mild headaches
• Food aversions

If you're struggling to keep food down, focus on whatever you CAN tolerate rather than forcing a perfectly balanced diet right now — this phase typically passes. Cold, bland, and slightly salty foods are often best tolerated.

Small frequent snacks throughout the day can help prevent your stomach from being completely empty, which often worsens nausea.

Low-impact activities like walking, swimming, or prenatal yoga remain excellent choices. Avoid overheating, especially in hot weather or heated yoga classes.

Things to keep in mind:

• If you haven't had your first prenatal visit, schedule it now if possible
• Discuss any severe or persistent vomiting with your doctor — this could indicate hyperemesis gravidarum, which sometimes needs treatment
• Keep taking your prenatal vitamins

If nausea and vomiting are severe enough that you can't keep fluids down, contact your doctor — this needs evaluation regardless of which week you're in, as dehydration can become serious.