Week 16 of Pregnancy
Learn about your baby's development and what to expect at 16 weeks pregnant.
Baby's Size This Week
Baby Development at Week 16
- ● Your baby is about 11.6 cm long and weighs approximately 100g — roughly the size of an avocado.
- ● The skeleton continues hardening from cartilage to bone, and the backbone and tiny muscles are strong enough to hold the head erect.
- ● Facial muscles allow for a range of expressions, and the eyes can make slow, side-to-side movements (though eyelids remain fused).
- ● Your baby is actively practicing swallowing amniotic fluid and can taste differences in the fluid based on your diet.
- ● Hearing is developing — your baby can now detect sounds transmitted through your body, including your heartbeat and voice.
- ● The circulatory and urinary systems are fully functioning, with kidneys producing up to several cups of urine daily into the amniotic fluid.
Your Body at Week 16
- ● Many women experience sustained energy and feel their best in weeks 14-20 of pregnancy.
- ● Your belly is now clearly visible, and you are likely showing a definitive bump by week 16.
- ● Skin changes like a pregnancy glow, or darkening of the areolas and linea nigra may become more pronounced.
- ● You may feel the first clear movements (quickening) this week — subtle flutters or gentle taps from within.
- ● Round ligament pain may occur with sudden position changes as the uterus and supporting ligaments continue expanding.
- ● Increased appetite is normal — your caloric needs have increased by approximately 300-350 extra calories per day.
Week 16 Checklist
- ☐ Schedule your anatomy ultrasound (typically performed between weeks 18-20) if not already booked.
- ☐ Ask your provider about the quad screen blood test (offered weeks 15-20) for additional chromosomal screening.
- ☐ Start practicing pelvic floor exercises (Kegel exercises) — aim for 3 sets of 10 holds daily.
- ☐ Begin researching and booking childbirth education classes, as popular classes fill up months in advance.
- ☐ Consider a maternity photoshoot — weeks 28-36 are most popular, but planning ahead is wise.
- ☐ Update your health insurance beneficiary information and start researching adding your baby to your plan after birth.
Frequently Asked Questions
What should I expect at 16 weeks pregnant?
At 16 weeks, you are settling into the second trimester. Your baby is about the size of an avocado (11.6 cm) and developing hearing, taste, and increasingly complex movements. Most women feel significant improvement in energy and nausea. You may start feeling faint movements, and your bump is becoming clearly visible. This is an excellent time to schedule your anatomy scan.
Can my baby hear me talking at 16 weeks?
Yes, your baby's hearing structures are developed enough to detect sounds by week 16. Sound travels through your abdominal wall and amniotic fluid, so your baby can hear muffled versions of your voice, heartbeat, and digestive sounds. Research shows that newborns recognize their mother's voice — suggesting prenatal auditory learning. Talking, reading aloud, and playing music are all encouraged.
Is it normal to feel flutters at 16 weeks?
Yes, some women — especially those who have been pregnant before — feel the first fetal movements (quickening) as early as 14-16 weeks. These sensations are often described as butterflies, bubbles, or a gentle tapping feeling low in the abdomen. First-time mothers may not notice movement until 18-22 weeks. If you are unsure whether what you feel is movement, ask your provider at your next visit.
How many extra calories do I need in the second trimester?
During the second trimester, most pregnant women need approximately 300-350 extra calories per day above their pre-pregnancy intake. These calories should come from nutrient-dense foods — lean proteins, whole grains, fruits, vegetables, and healthy fats. The phrase 'eating for two' is a myth — the increase is modest, not double. Focus on food quality over quantity, and your provider will monitor weight gain at each visit.
What is the anatomy scan and what does it check?
The mid-pregnancy anatomy scan (performed between weeks 18-22) is a detailed ultrasound that evaluates your baby's brain, heart, spine, kidneys, limbs, and face for structural abnormalities. It also confirms placenta location, amniotic fluid levels, and fetal growth. Many parents also learn the baby's sex at this appointment. It typically takes 30-60 minutes. If views are unclear, a follow-up ultrasound may be scheduled.
Track Your Exact Pregnancy Week
Use our free Pregnancy Week Tracker to find out exactly how far along you are based on your last menstrual period or due date.
Track My Pregnancy →Sources
- ACOG
- WHO Fetal Growth Charts
- Mayo Clinic
Medical disclaimer: This content is for informational purposes only and is not intended as medical advice. Always consult a qualified healthcare provider for guidance specific to your pregnancy.