Week 16 of Pregnancy
Second trimester
For informational purposes only. This page is not medical advice. Every pregnancy is different — always consult your doctor, midwife, or healthcare provider for guidance specific to your situation. In an emergency, call your provider or 911 immediately.
Baby is
about the size of an avocado
4.5-5 inches · 2.5-3 oz
Baby this week
- •Facial muscles are developing, allowing for expressions like squinting and frowning
- •Ears are moving into their final position on the sides of the head
- •Baby can hear sounds now, including your voice and heartbeat
- •Skeleton is hardening from cartilage to bone
- •Blood vessels are visible through translucent skin
You this week
- •Energy levels may improve as nausea often decreases
- •Round ligament pain from stretching uterine ligaments
- •Continued breast tenderness and changes
- •Possible darkening of skin (linea nigra) running down the belly
- •Occasional dizziness from blood pressure changes
This week's tips
- •Start talking, singing, or playing music to your baby—they can hear you now
- •Stay hydrated and eat iron-rich foods to support increased blood volume
- •Wear supportive shoes and take breaks when experiencing round ligament pain
- •Use sunscreen regularly, as hormonal changes can make skin more prone to darkening
- •Consider scheduling a glucose screening test (usually done around weeks 24-28) with your provider
Informational only — always check with your doctor or midwife for advice specific to you and your baby.
Looking ahead
Week 17 brings more defined facial features and baby's skeleton continues to harden. You're moving through the second trimester sweet spot—many people find this period feels easier and more enjoyable.
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For informational purposes only. This page is not medical advice. Every pregnancy is different — always consult your doctor, midwife, or healthcare provider for guidance specific to your situation. In an emergency, call your provider or 911 immediately.
This content is for informational purposes only and is not medical advice. Every pregnancy and baby is different. Always consult your doctor, midwife, or pediatrician for guidance specific to your situation.
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