WEEK 16 / 40 · Trimester 2

Pregnancy Week 16

🍊 Size of a Orange

About 24 weeks until birth

Pregnancy week 16 baby size: Orange
11.6 cmLENGTH
100 gWEIGHT
🍊ORANGE

Weight has reached 100 grams! You're so close to feeling those movements.

What's Happening With Your Baby This Week?

  • Your baby is starting to hear your voice! The tiny bones in the inner ear have matured enough to transmit sounds.
  • The heart beats rapidly at 150-180 beats per minute and pumps about 25 liters of blood per day.
  • Facial expressions are diversifying; smiling, frowning, and pouting are now possible.
  • Eye movements are beginning; although the eyes are still closed, the baby can move the eyeballs.
  • Nail beds have fully formed and nails are starting to grow.

This Week's Tips for Mom

  • The excitement of learning the gender is approaching! It can be determined on ultrasound between weeks 16-20.
  • You can start talking to your baby and singing lullabies; hearing is developing, and in the coming weeks your little one will start to hear sounds.
  • Back and lower back pain may begin; setting up an ergonomic seating arrangement can help you feel more comfortable.
  • Pregnancy "brain fog" (forgetfulness) is completely normal; making a habit of writing things down can help.
  • Your daily iron needs may have doubled compared to pre-pregnancy; it's important not to skip your supplement.
Tip of the day: Omega-3 fatty acids (walnuts, chia seeds, fish) are very valuable for your baby's intelligence and brain development at this stage. DHA particularly supports brain and retina development; aim for 2-3 servings of low-mercury fish per week.
This content is for informational purposes only and is not a substitute for medical advice. Length and weight values are averages; every baby grows at their own pace.

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