Pregnancy: 16 weeks

How the child grows:

Get ready for a growth spurt. Over the next few weeks, your baby will double his weight. He is now 12 cm long and weighs 100 grams, his legs are more developed, the surface of his head is smoother, and his eyes are closer to the front of his head. His ears are almost at their final position, his hairline is beginning to form, and his toenails are starting to grow.

Important: Each baby's development is unique. Our information is designed to give you a general idea of fetal development.

Changes in the expectant mother

The upper part of the uterus is now centered between the pubic bone and the belly button. You are probably feeling much better, as you are no longer experiencing nausea, mood swings, and skin inflammation, all of which contribute to a sense of well-being.

You're about to experience one of the most wonderful moments of pregnancy - you'll start to feel your baby move. While some women notice "the first signs of fetal movement" as early as 16 weeks, most women will notice them at 18 weeks or later. As your pregnancy progresses, these movements will become regular and stronger.

3 Questions About Weight Gain

• How many kilograms should I gain?

In the second trimester, you need to gain 5.5 - 6.5 kg. The doctor who will be monitoring your pregnancy will consult you in more detail.

• How can I control weight gain?

During pregnancy, most women should eat about 300 more calories per day than usual.

If you are gaining weight too quickly: Some women notice that their weight is increasing too quickly. Following a low-calorie diet is not the right approach in this case. Try the following methods to slow down the weight gain:

• Start your day with a nutritious breakfast that contains protein, complex carbohydrates, fiber, and some healthy fats.
• Eat vegetables, whole grains, lean meats, and low-fat dairy products, and avoid sugar-laden desserts, simple carbohydrates, and fast foods.
• Keep healthy snacks on hand, such as low-fat cheese and yogurt, carrots, and fresh fruit.
• Choose tasty alternatives to fatty foods. For example: Low-fat yogurt instead of ice cream, a bagel instead of a doughnut, and popcorn instead of chips.
• Instead of juice, it is better to drink a glass of water.
• Get regular exercise (talk to your doctor about options). This will help you stay active. Even a 20-minute walk a day will make a difference.

If you can't gain the weight you need: Some women struggle to gain every 100 grams. Here are some tips to help them do this:

• Drink a milkshake every day (add fresh fruit to it).
• Eat avocados and nuts. They contain healthy fats and are quite nutritious.
• Eat dried fruits.
• In addition to your main meals, eat frequent snacks.
  
• How will these changes affect me?

Due to changes in the figure and the increased weight of the uterus, lower back pain may occur. Stretch marks may appear due to stretching of the skin on the abdomen and chest.

You may also be concerned about postpartum recovery. It may take some time, but you'll find it easier to get back into shape if you're active now.

This week's activity: Plan a romantic weekend. Once you have a baby, it will be quite difficult for you and your partner to spend time together at first. Don't miss this chance now, as you may feel too tired and unwell to travel in the third trimester. If you can't leave the city, plan local activities: go to the movies together or have dinner somewhere romantic.

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