Second trimester · 16 weeks pregnant
Week 16: first flutters?
Eyes move, ears are in place and a strong grip develops.
Your baby's eyes can make small side-to-side movements and the ears have reached their final position. Some women, especially in second pregnancies, feel the first faint flutters this week.
Size and weight
About the size of
an avocado
Length
11.6 cm
Weight
100 g
Averages from standard growth charts. Measured crown to rump until week 20 and head to heel afterwards.
How your baby is developing
- Eyes move behind closed lids; the ears are in their final position.
- The baby can hold its head straighter and make facial expressions.
- Hands can grip; the baby may grasp the umbilical cord.
- The heart pumps about 25 litres of blood a day.
How you may feel
- Possible first movements, like bubbles or butterflies
- A clearly visible bump
- Back ache starting
- Glowing skin from increased blood flow
- Forgetfulness
If you do not feel anything yet, that is completely normal. First-time mothers often notice movements only at 18 to 22 weeks.
What's next
Tests and appointments
- 16-week polyclinic visit: blood pressure, urine and a review of screening results.
- The second screening ultrasound window (16–20 weeks) opens now; book it if it is not already scheduled.
What to do this week
- Talk, read or sing to your baby; hearing is developing and your voice will soon be familiar.
- Watch your posture as your centre of gravity shifts; avoid high heels and heavy lifting.
- Book the 20-week anatomy scan if it is not already scheduled.
Call your doctor or maternity hospital if
- Any vaginal bleeding, or fluid leaking from the vagina
- Regular, painful tightenings or period-like cramps
- A severe headache, blurred vision, or sudden swelling of your face and hands
- Severe or persistent abdominal pain, fever, or pain when you pass urine
If something feels wrong, trust yourself and call 103 or your maternity hospital. You will never be wasting anyone's time.
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