Week 8

Palm reading available!

Your baby is still called an embryo because of the tail-like projection at the lower end. This is the only part getting smaller; the rest is growing rapidly, particularly the brain and head. Eye(1) lids can be distinguished as folds. The lower jaw(2) becomes more distinct. The spinal cord continues developing. The upper palate differentiates and the tip of the nose forms. Teeth start developing beneath the gums. The oesophagus separates from the windpipe. Heart valves become visible, and the four chambers can be distinguished. The lungs lie on either side of the oesophagus, and the kidneys begin forming. The arms lengthen into cylinders with developing palms at their ends. Nerve conduction begins, and a bend forms that will become the elbow. Feet(3)Placenta(4)

Still do not feel pregnant? That is fine: there is plenty of time and much to experience. Your uterus, previously the size of a closed fist, is now nearly the size of an orange. Its growth may cause occasional abdominal cramps. You may feel like a teenager again, because hormonal changes affect the skin, often causing oiliness and acne. Your emotional state gradually improves as you accept and become accustomed to pregnancy.

 
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Suggestion
Hormones may cause marked breast fullness and tenderness. Maternity bras can reduce discomfort, and sports bras may also help.

Question of the week

What determines the baby's sex?
The chromosome from the mother
The chromosome from the father
The chromosomes from both parents together