Week 16 Pregnancy

Second Trimester

Last reviewed: July 2026

16 weeks pregnant at a glance

You are in the second trimester.
Your baby is roughly the size of an avocado.
Midwife appointment (around 16 weeks) to discuss the results of any screening tests.
Every pregnancy is different, so don't worry if your experience varies slightly.

You are 16 weeks pregnant and in your second trimester. Your baby is about the size of an avocado. This week's key development: First Flutters. NHS note: Midwife appointment (around 16 weeks) to discuss the results of any screening tests.

Midwife Check-up

At week 16, you'll have a routine midwife appointment. They will review your screening test results and usually listen to your baby's heartbeat.

This page is for general pregnancy planning and date guidance only. It is not medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Pregnancy dates are estimates and can change after a scan or advice from your midwife, GP, or maternity team. Always speak to a qualified healthcare professional if you have symptoms, concerns, or questions about your pregnancy.

Week 15

Week 17

Baby's Development

Your baby is about the size of an avocado.

First Flutters — Some mothers begin to feel the first faint movements this week, often described as butterflies or bubbles. Your baby is making coordinated limb movements, and their face is becoming increasingly expressive. The skeleton is hardening from cartilage into bone.

Avocado

Approx. 11.6cm

Your Symptoms

Backache
Forgetfulness ('baby brain')
Growing bump

Every pregnancy is different. You may experience all, some, or none of these symptoms — and that's completely normal. If anything concerns you, speak to your midwife.

NHS Appointments

Midwife appointment (around 16 weeks) to discuss the results of any screening tests.

Practical Advice for Week 16

Nutrition

Continue vitamin D daily.
Eat calcium-rich foods — your baby's skeleton is hardening from cartilage to bone.
Include sources of choline (eggs, lean meats) for brain development.
Drink enough water — dehydration can cause Braxton Hicks-like tightenings.

Exercise

If you feel fluttering movements, gentle activity may encourage more.
Pregnancy Pilates helps maintain core strength safely.
Walking after meals aids digestion and reduces heartburn.
Avoid high-impact sports and activities with sudden direction changes.

Wellbeing

'Baby brain' (forgetfulness) is real — write things down and don't be too hard on yourself.
Backache may start — practise good posture and consider a support pillow.
If you're feeling anxious about screening results, talk to your midwife.
Spend quality time with your partner — your relationship is changing too.

Preparation

Midwife appointment around 16 weeks — your screening test results will be discussed.
Your midwife will check your blood pressure, urine, and measure fundal height.
If screening shows higher risk, your midwife will explain next steps clearly.
Start planning any nursery changes or baby-proofing you'd like to do.

Tip of the Week

If you're feeling 'flutters', try sitting quietly to see if you can notice them again.

Frequently Asked Questions for Week 16

How many months is 16 weeks pregnant?

At 16 weeks pregnant, you are roughly 3 months pregnant. Remember that pregnancy is typically measured in weeks rather than months for clinical accuracy.

What size is the baby at 16 weeks?

At 16 weeks, your baby is roughly the size of an avocado (about 11.6cm). Some mothers begin to feel the first faint movements this week, often described as butterflies or bubbles. Your baby is making coordinated limb movements, and their face is becoming increasingly expressive. The skeleton is hardening from cartilage into bone.

What are the common symptoms at 16 weeks pregnant?

Common symptoms at this stage include backache, forgetfulness ('baby brain'), growing bump. Remember that every pregnancy is unique, and it's normal to experience different symptoms.

Is 16 weeks in the second trimester?

Yes, 16 weeks falls within the second trimester.

Are there any NHS appointments at 16 weeks?

Midwife appointment (around 16 weeks) to discuss the results of any screening tests.