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Your pregnancy at Week 16

Highlights: #

Your Baby at Week 16 #

Sensitive to light
Your baby's eyes are making small side-to-side movements and can perceive some light, even though they're still closed.

The sucking reflex
Your baby may have already started making sucking motions, and tiny bones in their ears are in place, making it likely that they will soon be able to hear your voice.

Strong heart
Baby-to-be’s circulatory system is now up and (beginning) to run. In fact, that little heart can pump about 25 quarts of blood a day.

Baby's skin is transparent
Your fetus is becoming more human-looking, but they are still skinny. The skin is transparent, and you can see the baby's blood vessels under that thin skin.

Your Body at Week 16 #

Rapid growth
At 16 weeks pregnant, your uterus is growing rapidly, and you may not be able to hide your pregnancy anymore. You're likely enjoying the relative bliss of the second trimester and will soon have an ultrasound to see more of your baby.

How Big Are 16-Week Bumps?
At 16 weeks, your baby bump may clearly show that there's a baby inside. Every woman's bump is different, so don't compare yourself to others. Embrace your body's new shape and enjoy this stage of your pregnancy.

Your pregnancy weight gain
Gaining weight during pregnancy is normal and a sign of good health for you and your baby. Embrace the changes and remember that every woman gains and loses weight during pregnancy differently.

Nasal congestion
Due to pregnancy hormones and increased blood flow, you may experience nasal congestion and possibly nosebleeds. Saline sprays, nasal strips, and a humidifier can help relieve the discomfort.

Pregnancy Symptoms in Week 16 #

Continued breast growth
Your breasts may continue to grow, but they should return to about their pre-pregnancy size after giving birth and weaning.

Constipation
Pregnancy hormones can slow down your gastrointestinal tract, and the pressure from your expanding uterus can cause constipation. Stay hydrated to help things move along.

Increased vaginal discharge
An increase in vaginal discharge, known as leukorrhea, is normal during pregnancy. Keep the area clean and dry with breathable cotton underwear.

Varicose veins
Extra weight can increase the load on your circulatory system, contributing to swollen blood vessels. Maintain a healthy weight gain to minimize varicose veins.

Backaches
Your growing belly may strain your lower back muscles. Gentle yoga or Pilates can help stretch and release tension in your spine.

Bleeding gums
Pregnancy hormones can cause gum inflammation, making them more susceptible to bleeding. Maintain good oral hygiene to avoid gum disease.

Things to Take Care in Week 16 #

Choose soups
Soups make a great midday meal, offering protein and fiber. They can be hearty and pair well with other foods.

Switch to cotton underwear
Increased vaginal discharge is normal during pregnancy, and wearing breathable cotton underwear can keep the area clean and dry.

Use a humidifier
Combat pregnancy congestion and nosebleeds with a neti pot and a humidifier to moisten your dry nose.

Go for good calories when you exercise
Choose nutrient-rich foods to support your exercise routine and overall health during pregnancy.

Manage back pain
Gentle yoga or Pilates can help stretch and loosen your spine and reduce back pain.

Go for greens
Incorporate salads, grilled veggies, and leafy greens into your meals for a nutritious boost.

Prepare for the quad screen
The quad screen is a blood test that measures substances produced by the fetus and placenta, providing information about chromosomal abnormalities and neural tube defects.

FAQs #

Question: Is it normal to experience continued breast growth during pregnancy?
Answer: Yes, continued breast growth is normal during pregnancy, but breasts should return to about their pre-pregnancy size after giving birth and weaning.

Question: What can I do about constipation during pregnancy?
Answer: Stay hydrated and increase your fluid intake to help alleviate constipation caused by pregnancy hormones.

Question: Is it normal to experience increased vaginal discharge during pregnancy?
Answer: Yes, increased vaginal discharge, known as leukorrhea, is normal during pregnancy and protects the birth canal from infection.

Question: How can I minimize varicose veins during pregnancy?
Answer: Maintain a healthy weight gain to reduce the load on your circulatory system and minimize the risk of varicose veins.

Question: What can I do to relieve backaches during pregnancy?
Answer: Gentle yoga or Pilates can help stretch and release tension in your spine, reducing back pain.

Please note that this information is general and should not replace medical advice. Always consult your healthcare provider for personalized guidance during pregnancy.