Pregnancy week 16
Trimester 2 · Baby is about an avocado
Facial muscles work, the baby can hear muffled sounds, and growth is rapid.
How your body may feel
- • First flutters — quickening — may begin.
- • Backache can start as posture changes.
- • Appetite is usually strong.
Self-care this week
- • Sit with lower-back support.
- • Talk or sing to your baby — hearing is developing.
- • Keep antenatal appointments.
Milestone
Quickening: first felt movements, especially in later pregnancies.
Seek care urgently if you notice
- • Severe headache that will not clear, or blurred vision and flashing lights
- • Any vaginal bleeding, or fluid leaking from the vagina
- • Sudden swelling of the face, hands or feet
- • Burning or painful urination, or fever
- • Reduced or absent baby movement once a pattern is established