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Patient Education

Our Health Library information does not replace the advice of a doctor. Please be advised that this information is made available to assist our patients to learn about general health issues that may not be related to Ear, Nose and Throat Disorders. Our providers may not see and/or treat all topics found herein

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.