You are now four months pregnant and likely have a bump to show for it. Of course, everyone shows differently during pregnancy, so it’s important not to make comparisons. Your size, shape, number of pregnancies, and how you carry all factor in, and healthy bumps come in various shapes and forms. You may even find you wake up with a lop-sided bump in the morning, depending on where your baby is lying.

Artist Holly Priddis

How your baby is growing when 16 Weeks Pregnant?

Your baby is now approximately 11.5cm long and weighs about 110gm. The umbilical cord is completely mature and helps send nutrients from the placenta to the baby. The baby is starting to form facial expressions, and their nervous system is developing. Although their eyes are fused, they are sensitive to light.

What You May Feel

You may be excited to learn it is now possible to discover the sex of your baby on an ultrasound. Some parents want to know the sex as soon as possible and book an early gender scan privately. Others wait until the following ultrasound scan at 18 to 21 weeks, while some don’t want to know until the baby’s birth. This decision is very personal and one that you and your partner need to discuss.  You may also experience things like constipation, heartburn, nosebleeds and weight gain at this stage in pregnancy

Did you know the amount of blood your heart pumps starts to increase at about five weeks of pregnancy? By 16 to 20 weeks of pregnancy, your heart pumps about 50% more blood than before you were pregnant.

Tips when you are 16 Weeks Pregnant

Your midwife or doctor may advise you to stop sleeping on your back at around this time, as it can restrict blood flow to the baby. So go on the hunt, or send a friend or partner to shop for a good maternity pillow, which helps support your ever-growing bump. It can make all the difference in helping you have a good night’s sleep. Make sure you do some research beforehand, as they come in various shapes and sizes, and you want one that best suits your sleeping habits.

Published 8th March 2022