Week 8: Goodbye Modesty
Congratulations, you’ve reached week 8 of your pregnancy! Here’s what you can expect during this time…
MIND:
At 8 weeks pregnant, your pregnancy symptoms are in full effect. This might be your body’s way of preparing you for the amplified senses of motherhood—like developing a superhero’s hearing to identify that strange noise from the playroom. You may find that your sense of smell is heightened, meaning that even the faint scent of buttered toast could have you running for the bathroom. You might even catch a whiff of someone’s breakfast from blocks away. Thanks, pregnancy!
BODY:
In addition to your growing uterus and baby, your blood volume is also increasing. Right now, you have around 10% more blood circulating than before your pregnancy, and by the end, you could have nearly 50% more. This surge might lead to feelings of dizziness, frequent urination, noticeable veins, headaches, or even nosebleeds. Be aware that your gums might bleed more easily when brushing. Elevated hormones can heighten your risk of gum disease, which isn’t great for your baby, so consider visiting a dentist during your second trimester.
The hormonal changes, particularly the increase in progesterone, may also contribute to your constant fatigue. And let’s not forget about gas—thanks to the hormone relaxin, your muscles and joints loosen up in preparation for labor, which can lead to bloating and constipation as well.
BABY:
At this stage, your little one is developing webbed fingers and toes, and that tiny “tail” (just an extension of the tailbone) is nearly gone. Your baby is beginning to look more human, with discernible eyelids, an upper lip, and a nose. If you visit your doctor, they might be able to detect your baby’s heartbeat now and will certainly be able to see it during a transvaginal ultrasound. What’s a transvaginal ultrasound, you ask? It’s a probe that’s inserted into your vagina to gather necessary information, such as confirming your due date or checking for multiple pregnancies. Get ready to put your modesty on the back burner!
For more information on boosting your fertility, check out our post on fertility supplements. If you want to learn more about managing childcare expenses, these budget-friendly tips are a must-read. For reliable resources on pregnancy and home insemination, CCRM IVF offers excellent insights.
Summary:
In week 8 of your pregnancy, expect heightened senses, increased blood volume, and noticeable changes in your body. Your baby is developing rapidly, and you may need to embrace a new level of openness with your healthcare provider. Don’t forget to explore additional resources to support your fertility journey and childcare planning!