At 8 weeks, the embryo is often about 14–16 mm (0.55–0.63 in), roughly the size of a raspberry. Early spontaneous movements may be happening, but they are too small to feel and are usually felt much later in pregnancy.
8 weeks pregnant is about 2 months. You are in month 2 of pregnancy and the first trimester.
Your baby at 8 weeks
Your Embryo Is About the Size of a Raspberry
Early movements at this stage are a sign of the developing nervous system. They are not purposeful kicks, and they are too small to feel.
How the embryo is growing
By week 8, the embryo is often 14–16 mm (0.55–0.63 in) long. Arms and legs are lengthening, elbows are beginning to form, and fingers are starting to separate from one another.
- The face becomes more recognizable as the upper lip and nose develop.
- The intestines temporarily extend into the base of the umbilical cord. This is a normal stage of development.
- A heartbeat is often visible on ultrasound by this week.
How you may feel
Hormones can intensify nausea, fatigue and emotional sensitivity. Eating small, frequent meals may help some people. Ask your provider about treatment options if vomiting is persistent.
Your body at 8 weeks
Why Pregnancy Fatigue Hits So Hard
Why are you so tired?
If you feel completely drained by the time you get home from work or sink onto the couch at 8 weeks of pregnancy, you are not alone. Extreme fatigue is one of the most common early pregnancy symptoms.
The role of progesterone
A main suspect is progesterone, a hormone that helps support the pregnancy. Its levels rise quickly in the first trimester. Some experts believe progesterone may have a calming effect on the nervous system, which could add to the sleepiness you feel. Other changes, such as higher blood volume and the hormone hCG, may also play a role.
How to manage fatigue
- Listen to your body. Short naps of 20 to 30 minutes may help if you can fit them in.
- Try to keep a regular sleep schedule, even on weekends.
- Eat balanced meals with protein, fiber, and healthy fats. Steady blood sugar may help you feel less worn out.
- Drink fluids throughout the day, and ask your provider how much water is right for you.
When to talk to your provider
Common symptoms at 8 weeks
Feeling worn out, even after a full night of sleep, is very common this early. Short rests, an earlier bedtime, and lighter plans for the day can help you feel more steady.
Some people feel queasy at any time of day, not just in the morning. Eating small, plain snacks often and keeping crackers by the bed may ease it for some people.
Breasts can feel sore, full, or heavy as hormone levels rise. A supportive, well-fitting bra, including a soft sleep bra, can make you more comfortable.
Your kidneys work harder now, so you may get up to urinate more often, even at night. Drinking fluids steadily during the day, rather than all at once, can help with comfort.
Feeling teary, irritable, or emotional for no clear reason is common as hormones shift. Talking with someone you trust, or writing down your feelings, can help you process them.
Hormones can slow digestion, which can cause gas, bloating, or constipation. Water, fiber from fruits, vegetables, and whole grains, and gentle daily movement such as a short walk may help.
Your week 8 checklist
Tests and appointments
- First prenatal visit and routine bloodwork. Your first appointment often includes blood tests for blood type, anemia, immunity, and infections, along with a urine test and a review of your health history.
- Due date confirmation ultrasound. Some providers offer an early ultrasound to confirm how far along you are and check the pregnancy's location and heartbeat.
Questions about week 8
How many months is 8 weeks pregnant?
8 weeks pregnant is about 2 months. You are in month 2 of pregnancy and the first trimester.
What trimester is 8 weeks?
Week 8 is in the first trimester. The first trimester runs through week 13, the second from week 14 to 27 and the third from week 28 until birth.
What is happening with the baby at 8 weeks?
At 8 weeks, the embryo is often about 14–16 mm (0.55–0.63 in), roughly the size of a raspberry. Early spontaneous movements may be happening, but they are too small to feel and are usually felt much later in pregnancy.
Is extreme tiredness normal at 8 weeks?
Yes, very deep tiredness is common in early pregnancy and is often linked to rising progesterone. It usually improves for many people in the second trimester. Rest when you can, and tell your provider if tiredness feels severe or stops you from doing daily tasks.
When should I call my provider about fatigue?
Call your provider if you feel faint, dizzy, or very weak, cannot keep fluids down, have bleeding or severe pain, or feel too tired to function. These symptoms need prompt attention.
Can I nap during pregnancy?
Many people find short naps helpful during early pregnancy. Keeping naps brief, around 20 to 30 minutes, may help you rest without making it harder to sleep at night. Ask your provider if you have questions about your sleep.
Safe or not?
Guides for this stage
Learn more
- NIH: Pregnancy (NICHD)
- CDC: Pregnancy
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