What happens to body in 8 weeks of pregnancy?

During the eighth week of pregnancy:

1.Embryonic Development:**

- The embryo is now referred to as a fetus.

- It is about 1.25 inches (3.2 cm) long and weighs approximately 1 gram.

- The vital organs are rapidly developing, and the limbs are elongating.

- Fingers and toes begin to form.

2.Head and Facial Features:

- The eyes are positioned closer together, and the eyelids begin to fuse.

- The ears move from the neck to their final position on the sides of the head.

- Nasal passages start to develop.

3.Limb Development:

- Fingers and toes are clearly visible, and tiny nails start to grow.

- The elbows and knees begin to bend.

4.Skeletal Development:

- Ossification (formation of bones) starts, primarily in the long bones of the limbs.

5.Circulatory System:

- The fetal heartbeat can be detected through an ultrasound.

- Red and white blood cells continue to be produced in the fetus's bone marrow.

6.Digestive System:

- The esophagus, stomach, and intestines continue to develop.

- The liver produces bile, which helps in digesting fats.

7.Respiratory System:

- The lungs begin to branch and develop respiratory bronchioles.

8.Muscular System:

- The fetus's muscles become stronger, allowing for more coordinated movements.

9.Genitourinary System:

- The fetus's kidneys start functioning and produce urine.

- The external genitalia becomes more distinct, allowing the doctor to determine the baby's gender through an ultrasound.

10.Hormonal Changes:

- The hormone levels in the mother's body continue to fluctuate.

- Progesterone levels rise, which helps maintain the pregnancy and prepares the breasts for milk production.

11.Weight Gain:

- The mother may start to gain weight, mostly due to the growing fetus, increased blood volume, and amniotic fluid.

12.Symptoms and Discomforts:

- Morning sickness may persist for some women, while others may start to feel better.

- Breast tenderness, fatigue, and frequent urination continue.

- The abdomen may begin to show a slight bulge.

Overall, the eighth week of pregnancy marks significant developmental milestones for the fetus, with the progress of vital organs, limbs, and facial features. The mother may experience various physical changes and symptoms as her body adapts to the growing fetus and hormonal shifts.