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Pregnancy illustration for week 16 — baby Getting coordinated

Second Trimester · Week 16

16 Weeks Pregnant: Getting coordinated

Baby development

Your baby at 16 weeks

Your baby is getting stronger, and coordinated movements are becoming more common. Some moms start feeling tiny flutters soon around this point, especially if they've been pregnant before.

Your body this week

What you might be feeling at 16 weeks

The in-between week. You might not be showing much yet, and you might not feel movement. This can be an anxious time — the wait for the anatomy scan feels long. You might notice your breasts growing, a slight belly, and round ligament pain.

Shelbi Kohler, certified birth doula

From Shelbi

Shelbi Kohler · mother of seven · certified birth doula

This is a strange in-between week for a lot of moms. You're past the worst of the first trimester, but you might not be showing much yet, and you might not feel movement. I call this the "waiting room" — you know everything is probably fine, but you can't feel it or see it yet. With my first, I rented a Doppler at 16 weeks because I was so anxious between appointments. Here's what I'd tell you: the wait for that anatomy scan feels endless, but you're getting closer every day. Try not to borrow worry from a future that hasn't happened.

For you

This week is about getting through it

Scroll up to revisit your baby's development and Shelbi's encouragement for week 16. When you're ready, share this week with your partner.

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Common questions

16 weeks pregnant: your questions answered

What should I expect at 16 weeks pregnant? +

The in-between week. You might not be showing much yet, and you might not feel movement. This can be an anxious time — the wait for the anatomy scan f...

Is my baby moving normally at 16 weeks? +

Movement patterns vary. If you notice a significant decrease in movement, contact your provider. When in doubt, always call.

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