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 · 3.5 oz
Baby this week
- •Facial muscles are developing, allowing for expressions like frowning and squinting
- •Hair is beginning to grow on the scalp
- •Ears are moving into their final position on the sides of the head
- •Skeleton is hardening from cartilage to bone
- •Baby may be able to hear sounds, especially lower frequencies like your heartbeat and voice
You this week
- •Energy levels may be returning as second trimester fatigue eases
- •Occasional dizziness or lightheadedness when standing quickly
- •Continued breast tenderness and slight enlargement
- •Growing appetite as baby's needs increase
- •Possible leg cramps, especially at night
- •Nasal congestion or occasional nosebleeds from increased blood flow
This week's tips
- •Start talking and singing to your baby—they can hear you now, and it supports bonding and development
- •Stay hydrated and increase iron-rich foods to support expanding blood volume
- •If you haven't already, schedule your anatomy scan (usually done between 18-22 weeks)
- •Practice good posture as your center of gravity continues to shift
- •Invest in a supportive pregnancy pillow to help with sleep comfort
Informational only — always check with your doctor or midwife for advice specific to you and your baby.
Looking ahead
Your anatomy scan is likely coming up in the next few weeks—this exciting appointment will give you detailed views of your baby's development and answer the big question if you're finding out the sex. You'll also start feeling quickening (baby's movements) very soon, usually between 16-25 weeks.
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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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