What does the belly look like at 8 weeks pregnant? Environment for a pregnant woman in the early stages

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Today, doctors distinguish two stages of pregnancy - obstetric And embryonic, which differ from each other by two weeks. This difference between these periods is due to the date from which the beginning of pregnancy is counted. Thus, the obstetric period is counted from the date of the last menstruation, and the embryonic period is counted from ovulation. And since ovulation occurs about two weeks later than the start of menstruation, the difference between these two stages of pregnancy is also about two weeks.

The embryonic period is more accurate than the obstetric term, but in practical medicine both terms are used, since their comparison allows one to navigate the expected date of birth with maximum accuracy. The obstetric period is calculated by the doctor based on the date of the last menstruation, and the embryonic period is determined according to an ultrasound examination performed on any day up to the 12th week of gestation inclusive. For more later gestation, it is impossible to determine the embryonic period by ultrasound, since the size of the fetus can vary depending on different women depending on individual and genetic characteristics. And until the 12th week, the size of the fetus is still absolutely the same for all women, regardless of their constitution, individual and genetic characteristics, as well as the nature and amount of nutrition.

If the difference between the embryonic and obstetric periods is less than two weeks, then no correction is made, and further pregnancy is calculated according to the obstetric period. If the difference between the obstetric and embryonic periods is more than two weeks, then further calculation of pregnancy is carried out according to the embryonic period.

Fetus

In the eighth week, the embryo reaches 14 - 20 mm in length (on average 18 plus or minus 0.9 mm), and already weighs about 1 g. The fetus is actively moving, which indicates the activity of the nervous system, but its movements are still invisible to a woman from - for small sizes. All internal organs are already established and will actively develop throughout the remaining period of pregnancy. The baby’s heart pumps blood throughout his small body, and valves are already functioning in large vessels (aorta and pulmonary artery). Blood cells are formed in the islets of hematopoiesis. The septa between the atria and the connections of the vessels thicken, grow and strengthen.

Active development of the brain continues, the cerebellum is formed. The bronchial tree grows due to the formation of small bronchi. A diaphragm is formed, which already separates the abdominal and thoracic cavities from each other. At the eighth week, the stomach is fully formed, and even begins to produce gastric juice. The formation of the kidneys is completed, which begin to secrete urine. The intestine is fully formed, but due to its too large size for the embryo, it does not fit in the abdomen, and partially extends into the umbilical cord, where it will remain until the 10th week.

There is an active formation of sweat and salivary glands, taste buds of the tongue and olfactory receptors of the nose, bones and muscles are developing, and the optic nerve is also being formed. The external genitalia are forming and taking on their usual appearance, but they are still too small in size, as a result of which it is impossible to discern on ultrasound what gender the embryo is. Girls develop ovaries and eggs, and boys develop testicles.

At the eighth week, facial features, nose and upper lip protrude forward, jaws form, eyes acquire color due to the beginning of the production of iris pigment. The retina of the eye is formed. The head is separated from the body due to the formation of the neck, which already has its usual shape. The limbs are actively developing - the phalanges of the fingers are formed, the arms can already bend at the elbows, and the legs at the knees. Tiny palms, despite the presence of only finger rudiments, are already clenched into a fist.

The placenta continues its development, which will be completed by 12 weeks. However, it already fully performs all functions of producing hormones and ensuring the flow of nutrients and oxygen from the mother’s blood into the embryo’s blood.

Ultrasound and tests

An ultrasound examination in the eighth week is safe and informative, as it allows you to assess the condition of the embryo, uterus, and placenta. It's time to undergo an ultrasound examination for the first time, if this has not been done before. The doctor will be able to hear the fetal heartbeat and count the beat rate, which is usually around 150 beats per minute. That is, the embryo's heart beats twice as fast as the mother's.

In addition, the doctor will be able to measure the size of the fetus (CTE) and assess the presence of movements of the arms and legs. The presence of heart contractions and movements of the arms and legs indicate the viability of the fetus, as well as its normal development. The measured fetal size allows the embryonic gestational age to be determined with an accuracy of plus or minus four days.

The doctor will also be able to assess the uteroplacental blood flow, the condition of the vessels of the uterus and placenta, which is very important for early detection of signs of fetoplacental insufficiency and prescribing the necessary treatment even before the baby begins to suffer from hypoxia.

During the ultrasound examination, the number of fetuses in the uterus (one or more), the place of placenta attachment and the presence of signs of pathology (for example, hydatidiform mole) must be determined.

Week 8 is the time to turn in everything. necessary tests for registration at the antenatal clinic. Referrals for these tests are usually issued by the consultation doctor who will manage the pregnancy. Tests must be taken upon registration, even if they were taken recently for some other reason - this is the procedural procedure approved by the Ministry of Health. Therefore, the doctor is obliged to refer the pregnant woman for tests, which he will do at the first consultation visit.

So, at present, when registering for pregnancy, the following tests must be taken:

General urine analysis ;
General blood analysis ;
Feces on worm eggs;
Biochemical blood test (blood sugar level, total protein, protein fractions, bilirubin, urea, creatinine, cholesterol, triglycerides, AST, ALT, alkaline phosphatase);
Blood group and Rh factor;
Coagulogram (platelets, APTT, PTI, INR, TV, fibrinogen);
Bacterial culture of urine;
Gynecological smear and bacterial culture of vaginal discharge;
Cytology smear (Papanicolaou);
Testing for sexually transmitted infections (conducted before 16 weeks of pregnancy);
Analyzes for dangerous infections(HIV, syphilis, hepatitis);
Genotype analysis by a geneticist (for women over 35 years old).

Feces for worm eggs, a smear for cytology, genotype analysis by a geneticist, bacterial culture of urine, blood for group and Rh factor, as well as testing for sexually transmitted infections is carried out only once upon registration. These tests are not prescribed further during pregnancy if there are no signs of diseases detected using these studies.

General analysis urine and a general blood test in almost all consultations in the CIS countries are prescribed at each visit. That is, after each scheduled visit to the gynecologist, the woman will be given directions for a general blood and urine test. Although, according to the protocol of the Ministry of Health, urine and blood tests during the normal course of pregnancy need to be taken only three times - upon registration, at 18 and 30 weeks. But these tests are simple and at the same time informative, since they allow the doctor to promptly suspect pathology of the kidneys and bladder, identify anemia and prescribe the necessary treatment. Therefore, doctors working in practical healthcare prefer to give directions for a general analysis of urine and blood at each consultation visit for a pregnant woman.

If the blood Rh factor is negative, the woman will be additionally tested for the presence of Rh antibodies several times during pregnancy. This analysis allows you to determine whether there is a Rh conflict between the blood of the fetus and mother. And if there is one, then the necessary treatment is carried out in order to prevent hemolytic disease of the newborn, which develops against the background of Rh conflict during pregnancy.

In the normal course of pregnancy, a biochemical blood test and coagulogram are given only three times - upon registration, at 22 - 24 weeks and at 32 weeks. These tests are usually no longer needed. However, if a pregnancy pathology is suspected, the doctor may prescribe both a coagulogram and biochemical analysis blood more often.

Since the load on the vessels increases in the eighth week, the risk of developing varicose veins veins and hemorrhoids. To minimize the risk of dilated veins during pregnancy, it is recommended to choose compression garments and avoid walking high heels, do not stay on your feet for a long time, try to lie down more often and rest with your legs elevated for 10–15 minutes.

Due to the pressure of the pelvic organs on the sciatic nerve, the legs may go numb. The pressure of the growing uterus on bladder leads to frequent urination, so the woman goes to the toilet to pee every hour, or even more often. Often women are bothered by constipation and bloating. This happens because during pregnancy nervous system transmits signals that relax the uterus, and the same signals are sent to the intestine, since they are controlled by the same nerves. Accordingly, the intestines relax, its contractile activity decreases, resulting in fecal stagnation and constipation.

Discharge

Normally, in the eighth week of pregnancy, a woman should have clear or whitish discharge in moderate quantities, with a slight sour odor. An admixture of pus, mucus, blood in the discharge or a change in its color to yellowish, green or gray indicates the development of an infectious-inflammatory process in the woman’s genital tract. If such discharge appears, you should consult a doctor.

In addition, symptoms of trouble are itching, burning, irritation, pain, swelling or simply discomfort in the genital area, even if the discharge appears normal. In this case, you also need to consult a doctor.

Brownish or bloody issues in the eighth week are a sign of a threatened miscarriage, so if they appear, you should immediately consult a doctor to receive maintenance therapy.

Bleeding

Any spotting in the eighth week of pregnancy is a sign of a threatened miscarriage or a spontaneous abortion that has already begun. Moreover, the stronger the bleeding, the more blood is released, the higher the degree of threat of pregnancy loss. Against the background of bleeding and the threat of miscarriage, pregnancy loss does not always occur. Sometimes blood is released for several days or even weeks, but competent and timely treatment allows you to maintain pregnancy and prevent spontaneous abortion. Therefore, if even a small amount of vaginal bleeding appears in the eighth week, you should immediately consult a doctor.

Bleeding can be combined with severe cramping pain in the lower abdomen, pain in the back (especially in the lower back and sacrum).

You need to know that bleeding in the eighth week is not a death sentence. So, only the release of blood with clots indicates that a miscarriage has begun. In such a situation, most likely, it will not be possible to maintain the pregnancy; you will have to go to the gynecological department and have the uterine cavity curetted so that the doctor removes all the tissue ovum, and they didn't start to rot. But if just blood without clots is released, then this only indicates a threat of miscarriage, and in such a situation, pregnancy can be saved with proper therapy.

Uterus and belly

In the eighth week, the uterus increases to 7–8 cm in length and takes on an ovoid shape (like an egg). The structure of the uterus also changes: it becomes soft to the touch, which the doctor feels well during a two-handed gynecological examination. The cervix lengthens, the external os of the cervix is completely closed, and inside it there is a mucous plug that blocks access to the organ cavity for various microbes from the vagina. At the eighth week, the belly has not yet increased in size, only the waist has smoothed out a little.

Pain in the abdomen and other parts of the body

In the eighth week of pregnancy, a woman may experience unpleasant, painful sensations not only in the abdomen, but also in other parts of the body. Normal for this period of gestation are painful sensations in the pelvis and hips, which are of a pressing nature and arise due to irritation of the sciatic nerve, which is pressed by internal organs displaced by the growing uterus. To relieve these pain sensations, you need to lie on your side, on the side of which there is no pressing pain.

The abdomen may hurt in the eighth week due to stretching of the uterine ligaments and its pressure on surrounding organs. Typically, such pain is nagging, occurring sporadically in different parts of the abdomen and not associated with any factors. Their intensity and appearance do not depend on physical activity, excitement, etc. By the eighth week, the lower back may no longer hurt, but for some women, painful pulling sensations in the back persist almost until childbirth.

In addition, as early as the eighth week, rare, episodic contractions may occur, which are felt as a sharp attack of abdominal pain with a feeling of compression of the uterus and turning it into “stone”. Such training contractions last a short period of time, and within a few minutes after the onset of pain and compression of the uterus, everything goes away. Contractions in the eighth week are rare, there may be only a few of them during the day.

In addition to normal pain, a woman in the eighth week of pregnancy may also have pathological pain. Pain in the lower abdomen is pathological, combined with pain when urinating or cloudy urine. Such symptoms indicate an exacerbation of cystitis or pyelonephritis, so if they appear, you should definitely consult a doctor.

In addition, severe nagging pain in the lower abdomen is pathological, as it indicates increased uterine tone and the threat of miscarriage. If a woman is bothered by such pain, she should consult a doctor. If such pain is combined with bloody discharge, then you need to urgently call an ambulance and be hospitalized in a hospital for maintenance treatment, as these may be symptoms of an incipient miscarriage.

Sex

If a woman feels well and there is no threat of termination of pregnancy and inflammatory diseases genitals (for example, thrush), then you can have sex in the eighth week. In this case, intimate relationships are safe for both the expectant mother and the fetus. However, so that a woman does not feel discomfort during sexual intercourse, it is best to give the initiative in sex to her, since in this case she will be able to control the frequency of frictions, depth, strength and angle of insertion of the penis so that it does not cause pain.

After sexual intercourse in the eighth week of pregnancy, a woman may feel a slight pulling sensation in a stomach. If there is no threat of miscarriage, then there is nothing wrong with such sensations, since they appear in response to increased blood flow to the uterus and to contractions of the ligaments that hold the uterus. However, if the sensations after sex are unpleasant for a woman, then it is better to abstain from sex during the eighth week of pregnancy.

In addition, if a woman does not feel well or there is a threat of termination of pregnancy, then in such cases sex in the eighth week is strictly prohibited, since intimate intimacy can provoke a miscarriage.

Weight

Weight gain in the eighth week of pregnancy is 700–1600 g, based on the non-pregnant value. The highest weight gain is observed in thin women, and the minimum in overweight and large women. In this case, a weight gain of 1600 g should be considered the maximum permissible for the eighth week of pregnancy. That is, if a woman by the end of the eighth week has gained more than 1600 g of weight, counting from her body weight before conception, then she should consult a doctor.

However, contrary to expectations, many women feel slimmer in the eighth week. This occurs due to a general tightening of the figure, and despite a slight weight gain, the woman visually becomes slimmer. In addition, in the eighth week, in some women suffering from severe toxicosis, body weight may even decrease due to fluid loss (along with vomit).

Food and alcohol

In the eighth week you cannot follow any weight loss diets. On the contrary, you need to eat your fill, since for normal growth and development the child needs nutrients, vitamins and microelements, which he can only get from the mother - and she, in turn, from food.

It is recommended to adhere to the usual recommendations for a healthy diet, that is, avoid fried, salted, smoked, spicy, spicy, a variety of canned food, fast food and ready-made semi-finished products. These dishes irritate the stomach and liver, often leading to heartburn, and pickles also cause swelling. It is also advisable to exclude from the diet foods that contribute to gas formation, flatulence, bloating and constipation (in particular, legumes, fresh bread, baked goods made from yeast dough, raw white cabbage). It is optimal to eat dishes prepared from fresh natural products, using boiling, stewing and baking, avoiding frying. The menu should definitely include meat, fish, seafood, dairy products, nuts, cereals, soups with meat and vegetable broth, as well as fresh vegetables, fruits, berries and herbs.

If a woman, due to taste quirks, wants to eat something forbidden, then this can be done, but in moderation. There is no need to get too hung up on prohibitions, as they are conditional. And if the passionate desire to eat something is so strong that it causes mental stress, then it’s better to eat a little of what you want than to bring yourself to a nervous breakdown.

You can drink as much as you want, choosing natural and healthy drinks, such as fruit drinks, compotes, milk, kvass, juices, rose hip decoction, plain or mineral water, etc. It is advisable to exclude coffee and tea, which have a stimulating effect, from the diet, but if this is not possible, then their consumption should be minimized to 1 - 2 cups per day.

Drinking alcoholic beverages during the eighth week of pregnancy is strictly prohibited, as it is not even a large number of Ethyl alcohol may have a negative effect on the development of the fetus. Thus, even minimal doses of alcohol consumed in the eighth week of pregnancy can lead to fetal alcohol syndrome, which will result in a delay in pregnancy. intrauterine development and the birth of a child with anomalies. Such anomalies may be mental retardation, impaired motor skills, poor memory and attention, short height and weight, low

Recent studies have shown that brain activity appears during this time. Facial features become more clearly visible: the tip of the nose, eyelids and eyes.

Big changes occur in the oral cavity. Salivary glands appear, muscles strengthen and the tongue develops. During the examination, you can notice slight movements of the baby in different parts of the body.

Development of internal organs and nervous system

Fetal development at 8 weeks of pregnancy is characterized by increased complexity of the nervous system. The heart has big sizes, it already has aortic and pulmonary valves. Blood vessels connect to other organs and the heart.

The lungs and bronchi take their final shape. In the future they will increase in size. The stomach begins to produce gastric juice and takes its final position. The intestines also complete their formation at this time.

The process of blood circulation begins through special vessels in the umbilical cord. Oxygen supply to the fetal organs is very important. Internal systems are just beginning to work and interact with each other.

The external genitalia are formed. Boys have testicles, girls have ovaries. Bone tissues become stronger, elbow and knee joints are formed.

What happens to the female body at 8 weeks of pregnancy?

First of all, the condition is affected by certain hormones that are produced during this period. Of all, prolactin, estrogen, somatotropin and progesterone can be distinguished. The mother's hormonal changes are necessary for the unborn baby.

First of all, changes begin in female breast, which will soon begin to produce milk to feed the newborn. There is also an expansion of the arteries, which now supply blood to the fetus.

The work of progesterone is interesting. It changes the appetite of the expectant mother and places emphasis on those foods and substances that will be beneficial to the child. This is why taste qualities change so often and dramatically at an early age.

Hormonal changes lead not only to physical changes, but also emotional ones.. This is caused by a natural instinctive program that makes a woman feel danger more strongly and become irritated at the slightest provocation. Depressive state for several days is also associated with this.

It is worth noting that the eighth week of pregnancy is accompanied by some skin changes. It becomes a little pale and smooth. Often facial features become more distinct, this is influenced by the growth hormone that the embryo secretes.

General health and toxicosis

General fatigue, drowsiness and irritability continue to occur. Vitamin complexes will help combat these symptoms. The body is increasingly depleted, it needs increased nutrition and a lot of healthy natural products.

Due to the enlargement of the fetus, the position of the internal organs changes slightly. Increased pressure on the bladder leads to frequent trips to the toilet. Minor constipation may occur.

In some cases, toxicosis continues, nausea and vomiting from various foods is considered normal. Try not to eat foods that cause disgust and give preference to fresh fruits and vegetables.

Some supplements can cause allergic reactions, so it is better to use them with a doctor's prescription.

During the 8 weeks of pregnancy, the uterus increases in size and can also have a negative impact on overall well-being. Sometimes pain is felt in the buttock, they are associated with pressure on the sciatic nerve. Doctors recommend lying on your side for a while and the pain will go away.

It is worth noting such a concept as “tone” of the uterus. These are small, unpleasant cramps in the lower abdomen that occur when physical activity or staying in one position for a long time. This phenomenon should not occur more than 5 times a day, otherwise it is better to undergo additional examination.

Doctor's visit at 8 weeks

A medical examination is very important, it shows how the pregnancy is progressing and how the fetus is developing. The frequency of consultations with a doctor is individual and depends on many factors. In case of complications, a large number of analyzes and tests are required.

do not lift heavy objects and reduce physical activity;
get enough sleep and walk more in the fresh air;
do not take medications unless absolutely necessary;
do not take x-rays.

These tips will help the fetus develop without deviations and improve your well-being. You need to register with a doctor after identifying an “interesting situation.” If you are just planning to do this, then you need to carry out a number of initial analyzes.

Complete blood and urine tests are standard procedures. You also need to measure your height, weight, blood pressure and body temperature. Definition exact date done using ultrasound and theoretical calculations.

An ultrasound in the eighth week of pregnancy will tell you a lot about the condition of the unborn child.

The photographs already show parts of the body, the location of the embryo and other details. The procedure itself is painless and does not cause discomfort.

In addition to a general blood test, it is also necessary to do a biochemical analysis. It will allow you to assess the condition of internal organs and the content of vitamins and minerals in the body. A urine test will provide information about inflammatory processes and the amount of sugar.

Throughout the entire period, a woman should take care of her health and get sick less. To do this, you need to wear warm clothes, avoid drafts, and avoid visiting places with large crowds of people indoors. Spending time in fresh, clean air will benefit the mother and the unborn baby.

Some people believe that swimming in open water can harm a child’s health, but this is not entirely true. Swimming in a pool or lake where no harmful infections have been detected is completely acceptable. Inside, the fruit is reliably protected from external factors and water will not affect it in any way.

The only thing you don’t need to do is overcool your body.

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After bathing, dry your body and hair with a towel. If the water temperature is too low, it is better to refrain from swimming.

Since the size of the fetus begins to actively increase at the 8th week of pregnancy, we recommend choosing a comfortable bed. Good sleep is very important during this period, so the bed should be comfortable. Your favorite position may also need to be changed.

Relationships with husband and mental state

At this time, pregnancy begins to bring more and more discomfort and problems with your husband may arise. This is due to the lack physical intimacy and frequent mood swings. Not all men, especially at a young age, will react with understanding to such behavior.

Sexual relations are not prohibited while carrying a child, but the desire for intimacy does not always arise. Try to explain to your loved one about your symptoms and how you are feeling, or let your friends do it. During your first pregnancy, it is very important to achieve understanding in the family.

Despite your special mental state, try to restrain yourself a little in your emotions and not react so sharply to external factors. Not all men know how to behave during this period; they need to explain a lot. We recommend that, if you have problems, you contact a psychologist together and resolve current disputes.

8th obstetric week of pregnancy and diet

A good balanced diet is important during this period. It is better to create the right diet together with a nutritionist. He will tell you which products are suitable and which ones you should avoid.

The diet is tailored individually for each woman. Depending on the presence or absence of minerals and vitamins, different diets are prescribed. Fetal development requires a large amount of energy and nutrients, but this does not mean that you need to eat twice as much.

It is enough to choose products and dishes that will provide all the necessary vitamins and microelements to the body. The following elements are most useful at this time: iron, magnesium, calcium, phosphorus. B vitamins should be available in sufficient quantities at any time of the year.

If it is not possible to winter time buy vegetables and fruits, you can ask your doctor for a prescription for vitamin complexes. There are special medications for pregnant women that support the body.

The main thing is not to take medications that can cause an allergic reaction and affect the fetus at 8 weeks of pregnancy.

Products and their properties

Fish is very necessary for the balance of nutrients. Fruits and vegetables will improve bowel function and prevent constipation. Don’t forget about such a source of protein and calcium as dairy products. Dried fruits and nuts are best consumed at night for good sleep.

Products made from yeast dough and fresh bread lead to gas formation and hinder bowel function, so it is better to exclude them from the daily diet. It is undesirable to drink strong green tea and coffee during pregnancy, as they stimulate the nervous system.

Salty, fried and spicy foods can worsen symptoms in the 8th week of pregnancy and lead to some complications. Therefore, it is better to avoid them and give preference to more neutral dishes. Eating steamed foods will be beneficial.

This material is for informational purposes only; before using the information provided, you must be sure to consult with a specialist.

The eighth week of pregnancy is the period when a woman begins to clearly feel her condition. It also refers to one of the most important periods of embryo formation. Now to the expectant mother You must be fully aware of the specifics of your position and treat it responsibly.

What should happen to the mother and fetus these days? What changes occurred one and a half months after conception? Is it true that toxicosis begins at this stage for everyone? How can you determine for sure whether everything is going as it should?

Fetal development

The 8th obstetric week of pregnancy is the eighth week from the last menstruation before conception. That is, about 6 weeks have passed since the fertilization of the egg.

The embryo is already in the uterine cavity and is growing very actively. Most body systems are formed and go through the initial stages of development already at this stage.

What happens in the child's body?

It is necessary to distinguish between pregnancy 8 weeks after conception and 8 obstetric weeks. In the first case, the age of the fetus or embryonic period will be less than about two weeks of obstetric time. This article describes the changes characteristic of the 8th obstetric week.

At this stage, the embryo has already acquired many similar features to the body of an adult. If nothing has prevented its development before this time, some systems are even beginning to function independently.

Here are some facts about what happens in the body with each organ system:

Nervous system. Three main parts have already formed in the brain, the central nervous system is already functioning. The development of the peripheral nervous system continues, right now the child makes his first independent movements. Nerve fibers are already in the muscles, so the baby can not only move, but also feel if he is touched. Taste and olfactory receptors appear.
Musculoskeletal system. Bone has already formed, joints have appeared and movement is already possible in them. Therefore, the baby now often moves his arms and legs. He also has fingers that can also be moved.
The cardiovascular system. The heart already has four cavities, the walls of which are gradually strengthened, making rhythmic contractions possible. The fetal heart rate is approximately 150 beats per minute.
Respiratory system. The bronchial tree grows and the lungs begin to form. A diaphragm is formed.
Digestive system. Gastrointestinal tract already divided into departments. The liver and spleen are actively developing. The stomach is already beginning to secrete gastric juice little by little.
Excretory system. The kidneys are making their first attempts to function, and urine may already be released.
Reproductive system. At the eighth week, the sex of the embryo is determined. Boys develop testicles, girls develop ovaries. It is at this time that eggs are laid, which will begin to mature in adolescence.

All systems already interact with each other. The child's activity - whether he sleeps or moves - now affects all his internal organs.

Ultrasound: what does the embryo look like?

Usually an ultrasound is not done at this stage of pregnancy, since the baby is too small. Facial features and other external features are still inexpressive, by which an ultrasound can be used to judge how correctly development is proceeding. But if there are any special indications, an ultrasound may be prescribed.

What can be seen on an ultrasound:

Fruit size. The length of the embryo is 1.5–2 cm, and the weight reaches 3 grams.
Appearance of the embryo. This is already a little man. His facial features begin to appear. At 8 weeks, the eyes are located too wide, but are already covered by eyelids with eyelashes. The nose, ears, and upper lip are already being drawn. The neck area appears, small fingers are visible on the arms and legs. Of course, not all details may be visible on an ultrasound.
Size of the uterus, condition of the fertilized egg.
Embryo activity. If development occurs correctly, the nervous system functions and joints have formed, an ultrasound will show how the child actively moves his arms and legs and bends them.
You can hear the baby's heartbeat.

What happens in a woman's body?

Eight weeks is the period when many women first begin to clearly feel that they are pregnant. Around this period, manifestations of early toxicosis begin, unusual sensations in the lower abdomen and chest.

Now is the time to register at the hospital, sign up for an ultrasound, and get tested. This will help you avoid many problems and respond correctly to unforeseen situations.

You also need to be very attentive to the state of your body. A sharp deterioration in general condition, unusual discharge from the genitals, especially when the lower abdomen hurts or there is bleeding - this is a reason to call ambulance. There is no need to be afraid or embarrassed to see a doctor, because the health and life of your child depends on it.

Tangible signs of pregnancy

Only about 6 weeks have passed since conception, the fetus is tiny, the belly is not yet growing, but some changes in the body are already in full swing. First of all, this concerns hormonal levels and the size of the uterus, which gradually increases. All this becomes obvious very quickly.

At 7–8 weeks, signs of pregnancy begin to appear, many of which will subside only after childbirth. Here are the most noticeable ones that almost all pregnant women experience:

The breasts are enlarged. This is accompanied by unpleasant sensations and sometimes pain. Veins may become visible on the breasts. All this is preparation for feeding with milk. You need to choose a soft, wire-free bra of the appropriate size, then it will be easier to cope with unpleasant sensations. But if you feel severe or constant pain, lumps appear, or local or general temperature increases, be sure to tell your doctor.
Early toxicosis develops. How toxicosis manifests itself and whether you should be afraid of it will be discussed a little further.
The condition of the skin and hair changes. For most pregnant women, hair becomes thicker and grows better. Hair loss occurs only when there are not enough vitamins and minerals in the body. But the effect of hormones on the skin manifests itself differently in everyone. In some women, the skin becomes tightened and even more youthful. Others experience flaking and dryness. skin, which creates the need for special care.
Pain or pulling in the lower abdomen. If such sensations are not excessive, they do not interfere normal life or occur only after a long walk - this is the norm. This phenomenon is due to the growth of the uterus. On an ultrasound, you can see that it has already reached 7–8 cm in length, the size of the uterus continues to increase and puts a little pressure on the surrounding organs and nearby nerves. If the lower abdomen is suddenly and severely ill, accompanied by light brown or bloody discharge, or the temperature has risen or dropped sharply, this is a pathology that requires emergency medical care.
Frequent urination. An increase in the size of the uterus leads to compression of the bladder. Therefore, its volume decreases and less urine interferes with it, making you want to visit the toilet more often. There should be no itching, pain, or stinging. If any unpleasant sensations occur, then their cause is not pregnancy, but infection. It needs to be cured as quickly as possible so that the inflammation does not create dangers for the fetus. If your lower abdomen and lower back hurt, or your temperature has risen, you need to check the condition of your kidneys.
Body temperature rises. This is usually due to the fact that metabolic processes are accelerated. But a temperature above 37 degrees, especially if the general condition is also disturbed, must have some other reason that can have a bad effect on the fetus.
Hip pain. Painful sensations arise due to compression of the sciatic nerve by the body of the uterus. To get rid of them, you need to lie on the opposite side.

Feelings during pregnancy are individual for each woman. But remember that they reflect the processes occurring in your body and the body of the fetus.

Therefore, if it seems that something wrong or incomprehensible is happening, be sure to tell your gynecologist about it. He will prescribe an examination (tests, examination, ultrasound) and the necessary treatment.

Toxicosis

Early toxicosis often begins in the eighth week. If it does not go beyond acceptable limits, this condition does not mean there are problems in carrying a pregnancy. Toxicosis is not present in everyone, so if you do not have such symptoms, there is no need to worry.

Signs of toxicosis, in which the severity of the condition does not require special treatment:

nausea in the morning;
vomiting up to 2 times a day;
slight irritability, nervousness, tendency to mood swings;
weak appetite;
body temperature changes slightly;
change in taste preferences (craving something you never wanted to eat before).

With the right diet, most of these problems can be reduced to a minimum. You also need to drink up to 2 liters of fluid daily.

Special treatment may be needed if the signs of toxicosis are too severe and can adversely affect the fetus and the woman herself:

Frequent vomiting can lead to dehydration. And fluid is needed for normal blood supply to the fetus and for the formation of amniotic fluid.
Loss of appetite and aversion to food threatens exhaustion.
Excessive cravings for salty and sweet foods and, accordingly, consumption of these foods in large quantities can also cause health problems.

If the sensations of toxicosis greatly interfere with normal life, you definitely need to find some kind of treatment with a specialist.

Discharge at 8 weeks of pregnancy

Discharge during pregnancy should practically not differ in any way from those present in the middle of normal menstrual cycle. They should be light color, odorless or with a sour odor, and there should not be any unpleasant sensations. The discharge may become more abundant, but not by much.

Any other options: change in color, consistency, smell, amount of discharge - a sign that treatment is necessary. The same is indicated by the appearance of itching or pain in the area of the external genitalia. They should not be ignored under any circumstances, because they can be a symptom of an infection dangerous to the fetus.

If the discharge is brown (from light brown to almost black), you may be bleeding. This may be a consequence of the gradual detachment of the fertilized egg, which without medical intervention will very soon lead to a miscarriage.

Bleeding at 8 weeks of pregnancy is a very bad sign. Usually, the lower abdomen aches, there may be sharp pain, light scarlet blood with pieces of tissue, and the uterus contracts. This indicates that the fertilized egg has separated from the wall of the uterus, and the miscarriage can no longer be stopped. In this case, doctors will need to eliminate the danger to the woman’s life.

But don’t be afraid; with a responsible attitude towards the state of pregnancy, it is easier to notice the problem in time and prevent the worst. Therefore, be attentive to yourself, cooperate with good specialists, and you and your baby will not be in any danger.

Is sex acceptable at 8 weeks?

Sex is not prohibited during almost the entire pregnancy, especially during such early stages, if there are no special contraindications. Possible contraindications:

risk of miscarriage;
pregnancy with twins;
pain or discomfort during sex;
after sex the lower abdomen hurts very much;
lack of sexual desire in a woman during pregnancy.

Of course, even if there are no contraindications, during sex one must not forget about the special position of a woman. During pregnancy, it is advisable to avoid excessively rough movements, positions that put pressure on the lower abdomen and situations that may cause psychological or emotional discomfort.

Fever

In the early stages of pregnancy, the embryo is very vulnerable, since the influence of viruses can cause disturbances in the rapidly developing organs and organ systems of the fetus. Therefore, it is strictly contraindicated for a woman to be in crowded places where she can catch a cold or encounter a viral infection. But what to do if you couldn’t protect yourself and the temperature rose?

You should immediately tell your doctor that you are sick. Find out how high the temperature is and what other signs of illness there are. Strictly follow his recommendations, do not take drugs that the doctor did not prescribe. Remember, most medications, including those that easily reduce fever, are contraindicated during pregnancy.

During the 8th week of pregnancy, many changes occur with the baby and mother. They relate to both the psychological side and the physiological aspect. The risk of miscarriage is still quite high, so a pregnant woman should be careful about her health, eat right and visit a gynecologist in a timely manner. We will talk about what happens to the mother and the fetus in this article.

Embryo development

The 8-9th obstetric period is the 6-7th embryonic week. This period is very exciting for a woman. She begins to gradually realize that something has arisen inside her and is rapidly developing. new life. The range of sensations in girls depends on individual characteristics body and the course of pregnancy. Some mothers suffer from toxicosis, lose weight, and become irritable. Others, on the contrary, blossom before our eyes.

The fetus at 8 weeks already resembles a human being. The head becomes more proportional to the body, the baby gradually straightens. At this stage, a woman may well see tiny limbs during an ultrasound examination. The child's height is approximately 18-20 mm, and weight is from 3 to 5 grams.

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Changes in the fetal body:

at week 8, the rudiments of the fingers are formed on the upper and lower extremities;
the intestines are improved;
the peripheral nervous system is actively developing;
the heart becomes four-chambered, it can already be heard on ultrasound;
blood is pumped through the vessels to the entire organ;
genitals begin to form, although it is not yet possible to determine the sex of the baby;
nervous and endocrine system, brain, kidneys, liver.

Quite clearly during ultrasound examination you can see facial features. The baby already has ears, a nose, and lips. The eyes at this stage are clearly visible, but are still tightly closed with eyelids. At the 8th week of pregnancy, the tongue bud appears and the salivary glands are formed.

At the end of the second month, the baby can bend and straighten his joints. From the outside respiratory system changes are observed in the form of branching in the lungs. The baby moves all the time in the womb, but for the woman these movements are still imperceptible, since the child is still very small.

All the baby’s internal organs are now actively forming. In this regard, a woman is advised to closely monitor her health so as not to disrupt this process.

Changes in the mother's body

Few women at 8 weeks of pregnancy have no idea about their interesting position. There are no periods, toxicosis, drowsiness and other symptoms appear, indicating the development of a new life. During this stage, many hormonal changes occur in the body. In some girls they are less pronounced, in others they manifest themselves with greater intensity.

Many lucky women are lucky enough to avoid toxicosis altogether. Other mothers experience nausea, vomiting, indigestion, mood swings, irritability and other “delights” of pregnancy. This is explained by a surge of hormones at the 8th week of pregnancy, which have an effect on the body different action.

What happens at the physiological level? The changes are as follows:

The uterus increases in diameter, girls often complain that their lower abdomen is tight. Such sensations are considered normal if they are not accompanied by bleeding, fever and other negative symptoms. The belly is not yet visible.
The condition of the skin changes, dark spots, acne, inflammation. This doesn't happen to everyone. For some women appearance is transformed, the dermis becomes radiant, smooth and more attractive.
Changes are also observed in hair and nails. For some, they become weaker and more brittle, while for others, positive changes are noted.
It is difficult not to notice changes in the mammary glands. The breasts increase in size, the nipples darken, and sensitivity increases. Some pregnant women describe these sensations as pain during menstruation. This is a natural process indicating the preparation of the mammary glands for lactation.

The growth of the uterus at week 8 provokes an increase in pressure on the intestines and bladder. In this regard, urination becomes more frequent, especially at night. Defecation may also become more frequent, but this usually happens at a later date.

Many mothers do not feel any changes at all at the end of the second month of pregnancy. Don't worry, this condition is not considered a deviation.

Signs at 8 weeks

During the 8th week of pregnancy, hormone levels continue to increase rapidly. In this regard, the woman feels many changes. The most common of them include:

Emotional swing. Mood swings, irritability, tearfulness, sensitivity to little things, touchiness and other emotional disorders are becoming the norm for many mothers. These are not whims, as many people think. This condition occurs due to the influence of progesterone on female body.
Frequent urination. Frequent trips to the toilet are associated with the growth of the uterus and its pressure on the bladder. This condition is considered completely natural and goes away without medical intervention after childbirth.
Disorders digestive system. Constipation, diarrhea, flatulence, heartburn, belching and other disorders during the 8th week of pregnancy occur due to the effect of the hormone progesterone on the smooth muscles of the stomach and intestines. It relaxes the peristalsis of the digestive organs, which leads to dyspeptic disorders.
Toxicosis. Nausea, vomiting and dizziness occur more often after sleep. There are many methods of combating toxicosis, the most reliable of which is proper nutrition small portions and drinking enough liquid.
Changes in taste and increased sense of smell. These signs at 8 weeks of pregnancy also occur due to an increase in certain hormones in the body.

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