8 weeks pregnant

Your baby’s fingers and toes begin to form this week, although they’re still webbed. His or her tiny arms and legs are growing longer and more defined. Paddle-shaped foot and hand areas are evident. Wrists, elbows and ankles are clearly visible. Your baby may even be able to flex at the elbows and wrists. The eyelids also are forming. Until they’re done growing, your baby’s eyes will appear open. This is also the week your baby' s ears, upper lip and tip of the nose begin taking on recognizable form. Your baby' s digestive tract is continuing to grow, especially the intestines. Heart function and circulation are, now that you're 8 weeks pregnant, more fully developed. Your baby’s heart is pumping at about 150 beats a minute, about twice the adult rate.

You and your body - week 8

The changes to your body are becoming more noticeable as your breasts and nipples enlarge and become sensitive. Your vagina changes from light to dark pink, and you may notice an increased vaginal discharge. It is time for regular monitoring of your pregnancy.

Your growing baby - week 8

The fetus is now about 0.7 inch (1,8 cm) long, which is 10.000 times bigger than at conception. All the major organs are present, although still developing, The ears and eyes have formed and the skin covering the eyes will eventually split to form the eyelids. The middle ear, which controls balance as well as hearing, is also developing. The heart is now pumping with a regular beat, and blood vessels can be seen. As the arms and legs grow longer, the fetus begins to move around and starts to kick, although it is still too small at this stage for you to be able to feel it.

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