Week 8
(counting from first day of last menstrual period)
Around 6 Weeks After Conception

Fetal Development:
An ultrasound done at this stage should show a fluttering heartbeat. Elbows begin to form in the arms and fingers start to develop. The leg buds begin to show feet with tiny notches for the toes. The face continues to change as the ears, eyes and the tip of the nose appear. The intestines start to form in the umbilical cord. Teeth develop under the gums.

Multiples: Your babies are developing at the same rate as singletons and each are about the length of two grains of rice.

Maternal Changes:
Your uterus is the size of an orange now, and you may find your waistline expanding. If this is your first pregnancy, you're probably not showing. If it's not your first, you may have a "pooch" already. You will tend to show earlier in subsequent pregnancies since your muscles and ligaments aren't so tight.

You may be feeling like a teenager if you find yourself with pimples and other skin problems. Don't fret ~ pregnancy causes an increase in oil secretions not to mention those rampant hormones! Your break-outs will go away either after the first trimester as your hormones level off or after delivery.

Multiples: Your breasts are probably very tender and swollen, and your tummy is probably starting to "pooch out," particularly if you've been pregnant before.

Ideas for Dad:
When mom goes to her first prenatal appointment, you'll be doing yourself a huge favor by making every effort to go with her. Be an involved parent NOW! Ask the doctor/midwife questions and share in this adventure. Take mom out for a nice meal afterwards to celebrate and talk about the appointment.