👶Your baby this week
Your baby is now about the length of a baby hairbrush, roughly 11.6 centimetres from head to bottom and gearing up for another growth spurt.
Facial muscles are more active, so random little frowns and smiles may appear, even though there’s no conscious control yet.
The nervous system is wiring up fast. Arms and legs are moving more purposefully; tiny hands can curl into fists and practise grasping and sucking motions.
Eyes remain closed but can sense light, and the tiny bones of the ear are maturing, preparing for more consistent hearing over the next few weeks.
Skin is still thin and translucent, while a fine network of blood vessels sits underneath. The spine and back muscles are strengthening, helping the head and neck to straighten.
The circulatory system is working hard, with the heart pumping briskly to deliver oxygen and nutrients through the umbilical cord.
If this is your first pregnancy, you may feel the first flutters soon; many people notice movement from around week 17 onwards.
🌸Your body this week
Around now, a midwife appointment may include checks of weight, blood pressure and a urine sample, and you might hear the baby’s heartbeat with a handheld Doppler.
Results from earlier blood tests are usually discussed, including screening for HIV, hepatitis B and syphilis. If anything needs follow-up, your care team will explain next steps.
Urine is checked for protein as an early sign of possible pre-eclampsia risk. Keep attending routine checks, even if you feels well.
Constipation can linger as pregnancy hormones and a growing womb slow the bowels. Gentle movement, fluids and fibre usually help.
Nasal stuffiness, headaches, gum sensitivity or nosebleeds can crop up due to increased blood flow and hormonal shifts.
A thin, milky vaginal discharge (leukorrhoea) often increases and helps protect against infection. Seek advice if the discharge changes colour or smell, or if there’s itching or soreness.
💛Symptoms you might notice
Every pregnancy is different. These are common around week 16 — speak to your midwife if anything worries you.
Constipation and Bloating
Add fibre gradually (wholegrains, fruit, veg, beans and lentils), drink plenty of water and keep moving to encourage regularity. Speak to a midwife or GP before stopping any iron supplements.
Round Ligament Pain
Brief, sharp twinges low on one or both sides of the bump can strike when standing, turning or coughing. Change position slowly and rest with feet up when needed.
Headaches and Dizziness
Hydration, rest and regular snacks often help. Mention severe or persistent headaches, or frequent faintness, to a healthcare professional.
Nasal Congestion and Nosebleeds
Saline sprays, a humidifier and small dabs of petroleum jelly under the nostrils can ease dryness and stuffiness.
Bleeding or Tender Gums
Use a soft toothbrush, brush gently and choose alcohol-free mouthwash. Arrange routine dental care, NHS dental treatment is free during pregnancy with a maternity exemption certificate.
Increased Vaginal Discharge
Leukorrhoea is typically thin and milky. Seek medical advice if it’s yellow/green, frothy, foul-smelling, cottage-cheese-like, or if there’s itching, soreness or pain when peeing (possible infection).
✨Tips for week 16
Go to your 16-Week Check
This appointment usually includes blood pressure, urine and general wellbeing checks, plus a chance to discuss results from earlier tests. Ask any questions, no concern is too small.
Ease Constipation Comfortably
Build fibre into each meal, keep a water bottle handy and add gentle exercise most days. A warm drink after breakfast can help get things moving.
Carbon Monoxide Safety
Routine CO screening is often done in antenatal care. At home, test existing CO alarms and replace batteries if needed or pick up a new detector from a supermarket or DIY store.
Pelvic Floor Practice
Daily squeezes (imagine stopping a wee mid-flow) strengthen support for the bladder and womb and may reduce leaks later in pregnancy.
Healthy Weight, No ‘Eating for Two’
Focus on colourful fruit and veg, whole grains, lean proteins and dairy or fortified alternatives. Balanced snacks help steady energy between meals.
Stay Active, Listen to your Body
Aim for up to 150 minutes of moderate activity a week if comfortable, walking, swimming or prenatal yoga are great options.
Vitamin D and Lifestyle
Continue a daily 10-microgram vitamin D supplement (especially October–March). Avoid alcohol and smoking and keep caffeine to a sensible minimum.
Manage Discharge and Prevent Infections
Wear breathable cotton underwear, change liners regularly if used and avoid douching or perfumed washes, which can upset the natural balance.
Know When to Seek Help
Contact a midwife or maternity unit urgently if you has heavy bleeding, severe or persistent abdominal pain, fever, painful urination or a sudden change in usual pregnancy symptoms.
Plan Ahead
If not already done, consider letting your employer know to access maternity rights and a workplace risk assessment, and explore antenatal classes to prepare for the months ahead.