Pregnancy week by week

16 Weeks Pregnant: What to Expect? 

16_weeks_pregnant

16 Weeks Pregnant: What to Expect? 

 

16 weeks pregnant is three months and about three weeks pregnant.

Now that you’re 16 weeks pregnant, things are getting pretty exciting. You may have another prenatal visit this week, where you will get to hear baby’s heartbeat again. Even more thrilling will be feeling baby kick, which could happen starting this week, so pay attention to those subtle feelings in your 16 weeks pregnant belly. Start chatting with your baby already as now they are able to hear your voice.

 

Baby’s Growth During Pregnancy – Week 16

This week is the real deal as your baby is likely to have fully formed genitals, eyes that are still fused but sensitive to light and will also start recognising voices. Want to know something cool? Your baby can yawn inside your tummy now! Yes!

The tiny muscles and backbone have gained strength, which means that your baby can now straighten their head and neck further than the last few weeks. Your baby’s facial features have matured now thereby enabling the him/her to frown or squint. However, your baby’s skin is still transparent.

 

What is the Baby’s Size?

At 16 weeks pregnant, baby is the size of an avocado, measuring 4.6 inches long and weighing in at 3.5 ounces.

 

16-week Symptoms of Pregnancy

Some mothers actually find their hair and nails grow faster. Your hair might actually look thicker and more lustrous and your skin might look radiant, too. This is one good symptom that you may or may not observe. Other symptoms include:

It is a side effect of hormones. To ease the pain a little, try to make some time for low-impact exercise. Sit and stand up straight and make sure you regularly stretch your body.

  • Bigger breasts

Your breasts have probably already gone up several cup sizes by now. They must be completely prepped for breastfeeding by the end of the second trimester.

  • Constipation

Your uterus has started pressing on your intestines now and the result is bad. You should  load up on fiber-rich foods and drink lots of water to keep things moving.

  • Pregnancy brain

There is no sure reason to what causes pregnant women to become more forgetful. It could be biological or it just could be a result of having lots on your mind.

  • Glowing skin

One great advantage you get out of pregnancy is the glow that people are always talking about.

[Read:18 most Embarrassing Pregnancy Problems]

16 weeks pregnant belly

At times you might struggle to catch your breath. This is because your baby is growing and gaining weight. The baby also generally feels free to move around your belly. Your belly will certainly be unmistakable and can be quite noticeably large now.

 

16 Weeks Ultrasound

On the inside your baby is around 4-5 inches in size and will continue to grow. Hair, fingernails, are starting to develop although they will be more noticeable once your progress in your pregnancy. You will be able to make out the head, the eyes, ears and torso of your baby. All the muscles and bones are in place, and the central nervous system is starting to exert control so you may even see your baby move during an ultrasound.

It is likely that your urine will be tested during this week, in addition to an ultrasound. This tests for diabetes and other diseases. Besides that, the usual signs of your baby’s growth such as heartbeat, maturing organs, movement and sensitivity towards light can all be charted.

The best news of the week? Once your doctor sees a normal 16 weeks pregnancy ultrasound, your chance of miscarriage drops to only 1 percent.

 

PREGNANCY CHECKLIST AT 16-WEEKS PREGNANCY

Reminders for the week:

  • A bit of chocolate may do you good, but as a regular practice, continue eating fruits and yogurt which aid digestion in addition to providing necessary nutrients.
  • Go for mindful eating and not overeating.
  • Stay hydrated without increasing soft drink consumption.
  • Think positive and stay cheerful as that will go a long way to improve mental health.

 

Also read: 15 Weeks Pregnant: What to Expect?

 

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