Trimester 1
Week 8
Your baby is about the size of a cherry.
Length: 1.6 cm · Weight: 1 g
Common this week: Nausea, Breast enlargement, Smell sensitivity, Constipation, Vivid dreams, Light-headedness.
Baby development
- All essential organs are forming: heart, kidneys, liver, and lungs.
- Fingers and toes are beginning to separate.
- The baby can now make tiny, jerky movements (not yet felt by mum).
- The embryo's face looks more human — eyelids are forming.
Changes for you
- The uterus has doubled in size since conception.
- Breasts may be noticeably larger and veins more visible.
- Heightened sense of smell can trigger nausea unexpectedly.
- Some women notice their jeans feel tighter from bloating, not yet bump.
Tips
- Your first ultrasound may be scheduled around now — a wonderful milestone.
- Eat iron-rich foods (lean red meat, legumes, spinach) and pair with vitamin C for absorption.
- Avoid raw meat, unpasteurised milk, and pre-made salads from deli counters.
- Discuss with your healthcare provider whether iodine supplementation is appropriate for you.
Appointments
- Dating ultrasound may be scheduled (usually 8–13 weeks).
- First blood tests if not yet done: blood type, rubella immunity, STI screen, FBE.
Warning signs
- Fresh red bleeding
- Severe abdominal pain
- Signs of urinary tract infection (burning, frequency)
Australian notes
- Australian dietary guidelines recommend pregnant women also take an iodine supplement (150 mcg/day) — discuss with your GP or midwife.
- Blood tests at the first antenatal visit are Medicare-covered.