Week 8: Modesty Goes Out the Window
Welcome to week 8 of your pregnancy journey! Here’s what you can expect…
MIND:
At this stage, pregnancy symptoms are kicking into high gear. You might find that your senses are sharpening—like a superhero with heightened abilities! By now, your sense of smell could be so acute that even the faintest whiff of buttered toast might send you running for the bathroom. It’s true! You might even catch a whiff of someone’s cooking from blocks away. Thanks, pregnancy hormones!
BODY:
Did you know that your blood volume is increasing alongside your growing baby? Right now, you have about 10% more blood circulating than you did before pregnancy, and that number will rise to nearly 50% more by the time you reach full term. This surge can leave you feeling dizzy, needing frequent bathroom breaks, and noticing some bulging veins. Headaches and nosebleeds may also become common, and you might find that your gums bleed a bit more when brushing. Hormonal changes can heighten your risk of gum disease, which is not great for your little one, so don’t forget to schedule a dental visit during your second trimester.
The surge in hormones, particularly progesterone, may also leave you feeling perpetually tired. And let’s not forget the delightful side effect of gas! The hormone relaxin is doing its job to prepare your body for labor by loosening up your muscles and joints, but it also relaxes your gastrointestinal tract, leading to some bloating and constipation.
BABY:
Your little one is developing rapidly! With webbed fingers and toes and the tail (which is merely an extension of the tailbone) almost gone, your baby is beginning to resemble a tiny human rather than a science experiment. You may even be able to see the eyelids, upper lip, and nose forming. If you visit your doctor, they might be able to detect the heartbeat now. If you’re having a transvaginal ultrasound—yes, that’s the one that resembles a certain adult toy—you’ll definitely be able to see it. This type of ultrasound might be needed to confirm your due date if your cycle is irregular, check for multiples, or investigate any bleeding. It’s time to let go of your modesty!
For more about home insemination, check out our post on the BabyMaker At Home Insemination Kit. And if you’re interested in boosting your fertility, consider the At Home Intracervical Insemination Syringe Kit. For further information on pregnancy and home insemination, visit this excellent resource on Intrauterine Insemination.
Summary:
At 8 weeks pregnant, you’re experiencing a whirlwind of changes. Your senses are sharper, your blood volume is increasing, and your body is preparing for the demands of pregnancy. Your baby is developing rapidly, resembling a tiny human. Embrace this phase, as modesty may take a backseat during your prenatal visits!
Leave a Reply