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Second trimester

16 Weeks Pregnant

Feeling more settled

This week your baby is around the size of an avocado.

How your baby is developing

  • Your baby gradually becomes more responsive to sound.
  • Movements may begin for some — often felt a little later.

What may be happening in your body

  • You may see a midwife or doctor around now — they'll check your blood pressure and a urine sample, and you might get to hear your baby's heartbeat for the first time.
  • You will probably have put on some weight over the past few weeks, and your clothes may be feeling snugger.
  • First movements, light flutters or swirls, begin for some around now, though most feel them later, often after 20 weeks with a first baby.

How you may be feeling

  • A calmer middle stretch can feel like relief after a demanding start for some.
  • Waiting to feel movement can bring a mix of eagerness and impatience, especially before it begins.
  • It is common to feel more attached to the pregnancy now, though not everyone feels settled yet.

Worth remembering

First movements arrive on very different timelines — waiting a while is normal.

A closer look

When first movements come

First movements are usually felt between 16 and 24 weeks, and with a first baby often not until after 20 weeks. Early on they can feel like gentle flutters, swirls, or bubbles rather than clear kicks, and they are easy to miss at first. If you have not felt anything yet, that is completely expected at this point.

Your check-up around 16 weeks

Around now many people have a midwife or doctor appointment. Your blood pressure is checked and your urine is tested for signs of a condition called pre-eclampsia, and you'll usually get the results of your earlier blood tests. Many parents also get to hear their baby's heartbeat for the first time here.

Something you can do this week

Listening to your body and resting when needed remains important.

What comes next

Around the halfway point, many begin sorting practical plans.

Professional support

Services ParentSide defines for this stage. Each page explains what the service covers and which professionals are approved to provide it.

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Sources and updates

Sources

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This content is based on estimated averages and general information; it does not replace medical advice. If you are concerned about yourself or your baby, speak with a qualified healthcare professional.

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