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week 8 of pregnancy: what's going on inside

overview

during this stage, the pregnancy is called an embryo.

wondering what an embryo looks like at 8 weeks? it is now about the size of an olive.

how the embryo is changing

here are some of the important facts and developments around 8 weeks.

  • the embryo starts out looking like a tiny seed, and then like a tadpole with a tail.
  • at 6 weeks of pregnancy, embryos have the beginnings of a brain, eyes, ears, heart, lungs, liver, and other organs. they have tiny bumps where their arms and legs will grow.
  • by 8 weeks of pregnancy, embryos have webbed fingers and arms that bend at the elbow. their legs and feet will take a little more time to grow. their muscles will soon start working. their heart and brain have divided into their major parts.

credits

current as of: july 10, 2023

author: healthwise staff
clinical review board
all healthwise education is reviewed by a team that includes physicians, nurses, advanced practitioners, registered dieticians, and other healthcare professionals.

this information does not replace the advice of a doctor. healthwise, incorporated, disclaims any warranty or liability for your use of this information. your use of this information means that you agree to the terms of use. learn how we develop our content.

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