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 inches · 2.5 to 3.5 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
- •Bones are becoming harder and more defined
- •Fine lanugo (soft body hair) covers baby's skin for temperature regulation
You this week
- •Energy levels often improve as second trimester progresses
- •Continued breast tenderness and growth
- •Round ligament pain (sharp sensations in the lower belly or groin)
- •Possible nasal congestion due to increased blood flow
- •Occasional dizziness or lightheadedness
- •Increased appetite
This week's tips
- •Start listening to music, reading, or talking to your baby—they can hear you now and may respond to familiar voices
- •Stay hydrated to help manage any dizziness and support increased blood volume
- •Wear supportive, well-fitting bras to ease breast tenderness
- •Change positions slowly when standing to minimize lightheadedness
- •Consider scheduling a anatomy scan ultrasound if you haven't already (usually done between 18-22 weeks)
Informational only — always check with your doctor or midwife for advice specific to you and your baby.
Looking ahead
By week 18-20, you may feel your baby's movements more clearly—especially if this isn't your first pregnancy. Your anatomy scan is coming up soon, which offers a detailed look at baby's development and a chance to find out the baby's sex if you choose.
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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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