BabyBerry8 Weeks Pregnant
Content last reviewed 2026-08-10.
Your baby this week
Your baby is now about the size of a kidney bean (approximately 16 mm or 0.6 inches) and is moving spontaneously, though these movements are far too small and gentle for you to feel. The embryonic "tail" has nearly disappeared, giving your baby a more human-like silhouette. Fingers and toes are forming, though they are still webbed together. The bones are beginning to develop, starting as soft cartilage that will gradually harden over the coming weeks and months. The tip of the nose is now visible, the upper lip is forming, and the eyelids are developing — they will fuse shut soon and not reopen until around week 26. The intestines are so long relative to the baby's tiny body that they temporarily protrude into the umbilical cord.
How you may feel
Your bra may suddenly feel too tight as your breasts continue to grow — many women go up a full cup size by this point due to hormonal changes preparing the body for breastfeeding. Fatigue is still at its peak; first-trimester exhaustion is driven by progesterone and the enormous metabolic demands of building a placenta and growing an embryo. You may experience constipation as progesterone slows digestion, along with occasional bloating and gas. Heightened emotions continue, and some women report vivid, strange dreams — likely caused by hormonal changes and disrupted sleep. Your uterus has roughly doubled in size since conception, though your belly likely doesn't show yet.
Common symptoms
- Nausea typically peaks between weeks 8–10 — hang in there.
- Constipation begins as progesterone slows your digestive system.
- Your clothes may feel snug even though you're not visibly showing yet.
This week's tips
Avoid heavy lifting (generally over 20-25 pounds) and skip hot tubs and saunas, as raising your core body temperature above 101°F (38.3°C) in the first trimester has been linked to neural tube defects. Stay active with gentle, regular exercise — walking for 20-30 minutes daily is excellent for circulation, mood, and sleep quality. If constipation is bothering you, increase fiber intake with fruits, vegetables, and whole grains, and drink at least 8-10 glasses of water daily. Consider investing in a well-fitting, supportive bra — a wireless, stretchy style is often most comfortable during early pregnancy. Start taking a photo of your belly each week if you want to document the journey — you'll be amazed looking back at the changes.
Eating well
- Eat prunes, flaxseed, and high-fiber cereals to combat constipation.
- Choose lean proteins like turkey, tofu, and fish (low-mercury varieties).
- Avoid greasy, spicy foods that can worsen heartburn and nausea.
Nutrition focus
- Vitamin D (600 IU daily) supports bone development — most prenatals include it.
- Magnesium (350 mg/day) can ease constipation and leg cramps.
Everyday wellbeing
- Your first ultrasound may happen this week — you could hear the heartbeat.
- Walk daily to promote regular bowel movements and improve energy.
- Start a pregnancy journal to track symptoms and milestones.
For your partner
Take on a larger share of household chores without waiting to be asked — vacuuming, cooking, grocery shopping, and laundry are concrete ways to lighten her load. She needs significantly more rest right now, so encourage naps and early bedtimes without making her feel lazy. If you have pets, take over litter box duty (toxoplasmosis risk from cat feces) and be the one to handle any heavy pet care tasks. Start thinking about finances — review your health insurance coverage for prenatal care and delivery, and begin budgeting for baby-related expenses. Small gestures of care, like bringing her water or a snack without being asked, show that you are tuned in and supportive.
Signs to mention to your provider
- No heartbeat detected at the ultrasound may require follow-up — don't panic yet.
- Severe lower abdominal pain with dizziness could indicate ectopic rupture.
- Unable to keep any food or liquid down for 24+ hours — call your provider.
Disclaimer: BabyBerry is for general information and self-tracking. It is not a medical device and does not provide medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always consult a qualified healthcare provider.