Pregnancy at 8th week
Pregnancy Changes at Eight Weeks: What to Expect and How to Manage Them
Have you ever wondered what happens to your body during the eighth week of pregnancy? Many women have questions and concerns about this critical stage. As a leading center in obstetrics and gynecology, we encounter numerous queries about these changes.
To address them comprehensively, we’ve put together a detailed blog to help you navigate this crucial phase of pregnancy.
Related Read : Pregnancy at 7th week
What Happens to Your Body in the Eighth Week of Pregnancy?
In the eighth week of pregnancy, significant changes occur in your body as it adapts to support the growing baby. Blood volume increases to supply the necessary nutrients and oxygen to the developing fetus. This increase in blood volume is due to the expansion of both plasma and red blood cells (RBCs).
However, the plasma concentration rises more than the RBCs, causing the blood to appear thinner. This natural adjustment ensures that your baby receives adequate nutrition and a healthy blood flow
To better understand these changes and ensure a healthy pregnancy, consult with the best pregnancy doctor in Pune, Dr. Supriya Puranik. Feel free to reach out for personalized advice and support.
Why Does Your Blood Appear Thinner?
During pregnancy, the volume of blood in your body increases significantly. This increase consists of two main components: plasma and red blood cells (RBCs). Plasma, the liquid part of your blood, increases more rapidly than the RBCs, resulting in a slightly thinner blood consistency.
This process, known as hemodilution, is a natural adaptation to ensure that your baby receives sufficient nutrients and oxygen.
What is Hemodilution and How Does It Affect You?
Hemodilution during pregnancy means that the concentration of red blood cells in your blood is slightly lower, even though the overall volume of blood has increased. Typically, a normal hemoglobin level is around 12 grams per deciliter, but during pregnancy, it can drop to around 11 grams per deciliter and still be considered normal.
This dilution helps maintain adequate blood flow to the fetus and ensures optimal nutrition and oxygen delivery.
How Does Increased Blood Volume Affect Your Kidneys?
As blood volume increases, so does the workload on your kidneys. The kidneys begin to filter more blood, leading to an increase in urine production. This heightened activity is essential for maintaining your body’s fluid balance and removing waste products.
Frequent urination is a common symptom during this stage of pregnancy and is primarily due to the increased pressure of the expanding uterus on the bladder.
What Causes Increased Urination Frequency?
In addition to the increased blood volume, the growing uterus also exerts pressure on the bladder, contributing to frequent urination. As the uterus enlarges, it presses against the bladder, reducing its capacity and causing the need to urinate more often. This symptom can start as early as the eighth week of pregnancy and continue throughout the pregnancy.
How Does Progesterone Affect Your Body Temperature?
Progesterone, a crucial hormone during pregnancy, increases significantly around the eighth week. This hormone helps maintain the pregnancy by supporting the uterine lining and preventing contractions.
One side effect of elevated progesterone levels is a slight increase in body temperature, which can make you feel warmer than usual. This temperature rise is a normal part of pregnancy and should not be a cause for concern.
Why Do You Feel Warm During Pregnancy?
The increase in progesterone levels during pregnancy can cause a slight rise in body temperature. This hormonal change is necessary to support the pregnancy but may make you feel warmer than usual. This sensation is similar to a low-grade fever and is entirely normal.
What Are the Symptoms of Urinary Tract Infections (UTIs) During Pregnancy?
Frequent urination is common during pregnancy, but it’s essential to recognize the symptoms of a urinary tract infection (UTI). Painful urination, a persistent urge to urinate, and cloudy or foul-smelling urine can indicate a UTI. If you experience any of these symptoms, it’s crucial to seek medical attention promptly, as UTIs can lead to more severe complications if left untreated.
How to Manage Increased Urination and Stay Hydrated?
While frequent urination can be inconvenient, it’s vital to stay hydrated during pregnancy. Drinking plenty of fluids ensures that your body functions optimally and supports the increased blood volume. When urinating, lean forward and press gently on your lower abdomen to ensure your bladder empties completely. This can help reduce the frequency of urination.
What Changes Occur in the Baby During the Eighth Week?
By the eighth week of pregnancy, your baby undergoes remarkable development. The embryo, now about the size of a raspberry, starts forming essential organs and body parts.
The fingers and toes begin to develop, although they are still webbed. The ears and bones also start to take shape, and the baby gradually becomes more straightened.
How Does Your Baby Develop at Eight Weeks?
At this stage, your baby is approximately the size of a raspberry. Key developments include the formation of fingers, toes, ears, and bones. Although the fingers are still webbed, they are becoming more distinct. The baby also starts to straighten out, transitioning from a curled position.
What Precautions Should You Take During the Eighth Week?
Staying hydrated is crucial during pregnancy, especially when experiencing frequent urination. Drink plenty of fluids throughout the day, but consider reducing intake in the evening to minimize nighttime bathroom trips.
If urination becomes painful or uncomfortable, it could be a sign of a urinary tract infection, and you should contact your healthcare provider immediately.
How to Avoid Urinary Tract Infections (UTIs)?
Maintaining good hygiene and staying hydrated can help prevent UTIs during pregnancy. Drink plenty of water, empty your bladder regularly, and wipe from front to back after using the toilet. If you suspect an infection, seek medical advice promptly.
What Should You Do If You Have a Fever During Pregnancy?
A slight increase in body temperature is normal during pregnancy due to hormonal changes. However, if you experience a fever accompanied by other symptoms like a sore throat, body aches, joint pain, or a rash, it could indicate an infection.
Some infections, such as those caused by the TORCH pathogens, can be harmful to the developing baby, especially in the first trimester. Consult your healthcare provider if you have any concerns.
How to Protect Yourself from Infections?
Good hygiene practices are essential to avoid infections during pregnancy. Wash your hands thoroughly, especially before eating or after handling pets. Avoid consuming undercooked meats, unpasteurized dairy products, and unwashed fruits and vegetables.
These precautions can help reduce the risk of infections like toxoplasmosis, which can be harmful to your baby.
What Should Expectant Fathers Know?
Expectant fathers can play a crucial role in supporting their partners during pregnancy. Help with household chores, especially those involving pets, to reduce the risk of infections. Encourage your partner to stay hydrated and avoid excessive fluid intake in the evening to minimize nighttime trips to the bathroom.
Providing emotional support and understanding the changes your partner is going through can make a significant difference.
How Can Fathers Help During the Eighth Week?
Expectant fathers should take an active role in supporting their partners. Assist with pet care to minimize the risk of infections like toxoplasmosis. Encourage your partner to drink fluids throughout the day but limit intake in the evening. Being attentive and understanding can help your partner feel more comfortable and supported.
Wrapping Up
The eighth week of pregnancy brings many changes, both for the mother and the developing baby. Understanding these changes can help you manage symptoms and ensure a healthy pregnancy. Stay hydrated, maintain good hygiene, and seek medical advice if you experience any unusual symptoms.
Expectant fathers can provide valuable support by helping with daily tasks and offering emotional support. By staying informed and proactive, you can navigate this exciting stage of pregnancy with confidence.
For expert guidance during this transformative time, consult Dr. Supriya Puranik, the best pregnancy doctor in Pune. Stay informed and proactive to ensure a healthy journey through your pregnancy.
Continue Reading : Pregnancy at 9th week
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About Author
Dr. Supriya Puranik
Gynaecologist & IVF Specialist
Often known as the last glimmer of hope for people who have lost all hope for conceiving a child, Dr. Supriya Puranik is a leading gynaecologist, high risk obstetrician and Head of IVF & Gynaecology department at Ankura Hospital for Women & Children.
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