Time seems to fly by and here we are, already in the 8th week of your incredible pregnancy journey. Have you been wondering what’s happening with your precious little bud? Well, fret not, because with Pregymatic, you’ve come to the perfect place.
At this stage, your tiny embryo measures approximately 0.6 to 0.7 inches (1.6 to 1.8 centimeters) in length, about the size of a kidney bean. This week is all about fascinating brain development, which allows the formation of the nose and lips. And guess what? The heart is working tirelessly, forming its aortic valves and pulmonary valves, enabling the heart muscles to beat at an astounding 150 pulses per minute. It’s truly a marvel! Even though you can’t see it just yet, the ovaries or testes are also taking shape, eagerly awaiting their grand debut around the 16th week. Ohand here’s the best part—your baby has started to move and even indulge in spontaneous stretches. Isn’t that amazing? Although you won’t feel those delightful nudges until around the 16-week mark, they’re happening inside you right now. It’s like a secret dance party, just for the two of you. Yes, he/she will start knocking the door.
Imagine a network of nerves, just like the intricate circuitry of a computer, spreading throughout your baby’s tiny body, connecting muscles, tissues and organs. These nerves are also making connections with essential organs like the eyes and ears. Every day, this incredible network grows stronger, ensuring your little one’s development is on track. Isn’t nature awe-inspiring?
Now, let’s take a moment to focus on you, dear mother. As you enter the 8th week, there are a few symptoms to be mindful of:
- Breast growth: Your hormones are at work, causing your breasts to grow larger. You may notice visible veins, darkening of the nipples and areola. These changes are your body’s way of preparing for the beautiful gift of breastfeeding your baby when the time comes.
- Morning sickness: While it may be slowing down, morning sickness can still contribute to feelings of fatigue and tiredness. Remember, excessive morning sickness can lead to weight loss and dehydration, so if it becomes unmanageable, don’t hesitate to reach out to your healthcare provider. In the meantime, you can find some relief by chewing mint leaves or sipping on lime water.
- Headaches: Ah, those pesky headaches! They can still persist, but don’t worry, there are natural remedies to help alleviate them. However, be prepared for your sense of smell to become sharper, as it may contribute to your discomfort. Food aversions are also common during this time, but nothing to be overly concerned about. Additionally, you might experience some dizziness due to the relaxation of blood vessels.
- Cramps: As your uterus continues to grow, you may experience mild cramps and pain. In most cases, these are perfectly normal, but if the pain intensifies, it’s always a good idea to seek medical attention.
Now, let’s talk about some suggestions from Pregymatic regarding tests and other routines:
From now on, regular ultrasounds are a must for all mommies. They help determine the gestational age of your little one and provide a glimpse of their precious heartbeat. Prenatal tests such as Non-Invasive Prenatal Testing (NIPT) are also important steps to consider not at all but if needed.
Dear mommies, remember that these routine check-ups and tests may vary based on your medical history, family health and individual risk factors. It’s crucial to take care of your mental well-being as well. If you’re feeling more than just a little blue, don’t hesitate to reach out to a healthcare service provider. Establishing a sleep routine and following sleep hygiene practices—like ensuring a noise-free and dimly lit bedroom—can also make a big difference. Consult your doctor about adopting the 3,2,1 formula for sleeping: no screens for 3 hours before bedtime, food intake 2 hours before and fluids intake 1 hour before.
Stay strong and positive, dear mothers. In just a few more weeks, you’ll have the joy of witnessing your precious offspring dancing and prancing inside your tummy during an ultrasound. They love to listen to you, so make sure to curate a playlist filled with soothing songs and melodies to create a delightful experience for both of you.
Wishing you a joyful and blissful 8th week, mommies!
Recipe for the 8th week – Strawberry, Blueberry and Nuts Milkshake
INGREDIENTS:
- 6-7 strawberries
- 25 gms blueberries
- 1 cup milk
- 2 tsp honey
- 30 gms almonds and walnuts
INSTRUCTIONS:
- Freeze the berries for 1 hour.
- In a blender, combine the berries and nuts.
- Pulse for a few seconds to break them down.
- Add the milk and honey to the blender.
- Blend until smooth and well combined.
- Serve the milkshake chilled.
NUTRITIONAL VALUE:
- Strawberries: 53 kcal per 100g
- Blueberries: 40 kcal per 100g
- Nuts (almonds and walnuts): 172 kcal per 30g
Indulge in this delicious and nutritious milkshake packed with the goodness of strawberries, blueberries and nuts. It’s a delightful treat that will not only satisfy your taste buds but also provide essential nutrients for you and your growing baby. The strawberries and blueberries are bursting with vitamins and antioxidants, while the nuts offer a dose of healthy fats and proteins. Enjoy this refreshing milkshake and savor the flavors of this special time in your pregnancy journey. Cheers to good health!
NUTRITIONAL BENEFITS:
This strawberry, blueberry and nuts milkshake is a magical combination, providing all the essential nutrition for pregnancy. During this phase of pregnancy, it is important to nourish yourself and your baby with the best of nature’s food. Let’s now explore the delightful benefits of the strawberry, blueberry and nuts milkshake and discover how incredible it is.
Strawberries and blueberries are little treasure troves packed with goodness. These colorful and vibrant fruits are rich in vitamins, especially vitamin C, which helps boost your immune system and aids in iron absorption. They also provide a high dose of antioxidants, protecting you from free radicals.
Almonds and walnuts in this milkshake are nutritional powerhouses. They contribute to a good amount of essential fats, proteins and fiber. This supports the growth of the baby’s brain and nervous system.
This blended milkshake is not only a treat for your taste buds but also supports your overall well-being. Enjoy this drink and indulge in the goodness of natural foods while cherishing the special moments of your pregnancy journey. Keep celebrating the magical bond between you and your precious baby. Cheers to good health and a nourished life.
