WeMoms
9 Apr 2024

Your body at 16 weeks of pregnancy

Pregnancy
Pregnancy week by week
Your body at 16 weeks
You’re almost halfway through this amazing journey, and your body has been working overtime to create a cozy home for your little one.
So, what can you expect at this stage in terms of body changes and symptoms?
Let us tell you all about it!
Juliette Seblon
Midwife for 8+ years
Symptoms of the week
Fatigue

Nausea and Vomiting

Breast changes

Increased urination

First up, let's discuss hemorrhoids.
Unfortunately, they can be a common issue during pregnancy.
Weird dreams are on the rise, and you may have joined the snoring club.
These days, you're loving the bump. It's super cute, but the itching can be bothersome.
Additionally, lower back pain is a common complaint for many pregnant women.
This is a time when many women report feeling more connected to their growing baby
Juliette, Midwife for 8+ years
What's happening right now?
As your uterus expands, it puts pressure on your lower body, specifically on the veins in your rectum, causing hemorrhoids.
This can result in unpleasant symptoms like itching, pain, and even bleeding.
However, it's quite common and nothing to worry about.
Having bizarre dreams is normal during pregnancy and is caused by hormonal changes, as well as nerves and anticipation.
Your life is changing significantly, and these dreams are just an expression of that.
Nothing to worry about.
Next up is snoring!
It's perfectly normal to snore while pregnant.
Swelling in your upper airway, weight gain, and breathing for two all contribute to this.
It's just another pregnancy symptom and will pass in time.
Your skin is thinning out as your belly expands, leading to itching.
Try to resist scratching to avoid stretch marks.
If you experience excessive itching elsewhere, it’s worth discussing with your doctor.
And then there's back pain.
As your baby grows and your belly gets bigger, your center of gravity shifts forward, putting extra strain on your lower back muscles, which can lead to discomfort and pain.
Top asked questions
What is the recommended weight gain at 16w?

Around 1-2 pounds per week.

What are some common dental issues during pregnancy?

Gum disease and increased tooth sensitivity are common.

What are some common skin changes during pregnancy?

Darkening of the skin, stretch marks, and skin tags are common.

Is it safe to take over-the-counter medication during pregnancy?

Some are safe, but always check with your doctor first.

How will my medical history affect my pregnancy?

Certain pre-existing medical conditions can increase the risk of : gestational diabetes, hypertension, pre-eclampsia, risk of premature delivery, intrauterine growth retardation and risk of bleeding.

Taking care of myself
Dealing with uncomfortable symptoms can be tough, but don't worry, you've got this!
Here are some tips to help you navigate these common pregnancy symptoms with ease:
Hemorrhoids
Don’t let hemorrhoids get you down. Eat plenty of fiber and drink lots of water to keep things moving smoothly. Avoid straining and consider a sitz bath for 10 to 15 minutes to relieve pain. A daily walk can also help maintain good circulation.
Snoring
Try sleeping on your side instead of your back to reduce snoring. A pregnancy pillow can help you stay comfortable in this position. Elevating your head with pillows may also be beneficial.
Lower Back Pain
To ease lower back pain, try gentle yoga poses or a warm bath. Wearing comfortable, supportive flat shoes instead of high heels can also help.
Weird Dreams
Weird dreams are your brain’s way of processing the changes and excitement of pregnancy. Establish a regular sleep routine by going to bed and waking up at the same time each day, and avoid caffeine and heavy meals before bedtime. Creating a relaxing sleep environment can also help. If the dreams become too bothersome, consider talking to your doctor or a therapist.
Itchiness on Your Belly
To combat itchiness, moisturize regularly with a gentle lotion or oil. Opt for products with natural ingredients, free of parabens, colors, and fragrances. After a shower, pat your skin dry with a towel instead of rubbing to minimize irritation.
Remember, this is all temporary. Before you know it, you'll be holding your beautiful baby in your arms, and these symptoms will be a distant memory.
Tips of the week
Keep up with regular exercise & healthy eating
Practice mindfulness and meditation to promote relaxation and reduce stress
Continue to prioritize a healthy diet and regular exercise
Teaser for next week
Some more great things coming up next week like more cravings, some swelling and heartburn.
Come back next week to see what else is in store for you!
View Sources
Related content
A Guide to Baby Kicks
1 min read
What's Visible in a 2nd Trimester Ultrasound?
3 min read
A Healthy Diet For a Healthy Pregnancy
3 min read
M
Mads
25 Dec 2023

Has anyone else started leaking as soon as 16weeks? I hit 16w yesterday and started leaking yesterday, it’s my first pregnancy and I didn’t realize it would happen this soon😂

Pregnancy Pregnancy week by week
2 comments
B
Bailey
I’m 25 weeks now but the first time I leaked was around then. This is my first also so I def was nit expecting to leak already lol.
27 Mar 2024

Answer

See more comments
C
Crystal
It can just leave it tell baby comes I started leaking around 8 weeks and now it went away this is not my first baby and I really don’t know why I leaked because I don’t feel like I have any thing in my breast. I can definitely tell when there filled with milk
27 Mar 2024

Answer

N
Niya
5 Nov 2023

Im 16w and 5d, Is it possible to see/feel your baby push against your belly. The other day my baby just had her foot pressed against my side and kept it there😂😂You could see the lump. My mom said she in there stretching.. P.S. she is sassy and stubborn already😂

Pregnancy Pregnancy week by week
1 comments
J
Jahyda
That's early. but who know these day lol
27 Mar 2024

Answer

See more comments
J
Jayonna
3 Mar 2023

Somebody please answer me I’m crying hysterically rn 😞 I got an ultrasound at 16w it says it’s a boy but after the ultrasound I did the NIPT and I just got my results but they say female ??!! Idk what’s going on 😫

Pregnancy Pregnancy week by week
51 comments
S
Salika
Ultrasound are not always accurate best advice I would give is take the bloodwork to know the gender it’s more accurate
27 Mar 2024

Answer

See more comments
J
Jayonna
Okay also this is my ultrasound ☹️
27 Mar 2024

Answer

R
Rissa 💙
5 Feb 2023

So I have to come on the app and change my week as my pregnancy goes on ? I thought it would automatically update it … 🙄 I been 16w for 2 weeks now 😂

Pregnancy Pregnancy week by week
2 comments
C
Carrissa
I haven't had to do that at all! That's crazy..I mean I just started this app like two weeks ago but so far it's been updating my weeks every week.
27 Mar 2024

Answer

See more comments
V
Vee
13 Jan 2023

16w&2days 💖 and having bad heart burn. ( anything to help with this ? ) Also been feeling flutters could that be baby girl Moving ?! 🥹

Pregnancy Pregnancy week by week
3 comments
C
Chloe Ann
Yes flutters is your baby congratulations 🎊 and tums work best but make sure not to take alot bc of constipation also get colelace for constipation 😊
27 Mar 2024

Answer

See more comments
A
Amie
5 Jan 2023

Anyone else in love with their bump??? I'm a petite 5'1.25" female...and I just can't get enough of my bump! My babe is 15w 4 days, measuring at 16w 4 days. Find out gender Saturday! Can't wait!

Pregnancy Pregnancy week by week
1 comments
🍹
🍹Jenni
I’d say your bump is perfect for going on 16 wks! Baby is growing extra good! Good job mama!❤️
27 Mar 2024

Answer

See more comments
S
Sarah
1 Dec 2022

When did you feel the first movement? I’m 16W with a girl I felt I did once but it was hard to tell.

Pregnancy Pregnancy week by week
1 comments
B
Blocked user
Between 20-24 weeks
27 Mar 2024

Answer

See more comments
K
Kelsey
14 Aug 2022

Hello! This is my first post! I'm 15 weeks, almost 16w, and sleep is very hard to come by already.. any tips that'll help me get comfy and catch some zz's??

Pregnancy Pregnancy week by week
10 comments
c
clare
got the best pillow! it’s a boppy
27 Mar 2024

Answer

See more comments
K
Kelsey
Are they pretty expensive‽
27 Mar 2024

Answer

M
Marisela
4 Jul 2022

12w 6d pregnant. Anyone else experiencing on/off again headaches throughout the day that isn't caused due to dehydration, lack of sleep or hunger? I forgot to ask my Ob at my last appt and won't go back till my 16w appt on July 25th

Pregnancy Pregnancy week by week
4 comments
S
Shanay
Headaches everyday .. i even wake up with one
27 Mar 2024

Answer

See more comments
M
Misty
Every day... But unfortunately I also had migraines before getting pregnant.
27 Mar 2024

Answer

D
Dani
18 Jan 2022

Today I’m 16w 5d and nauseas came back 😓 I hadn’t had nauseas since week 13 and today I feel SO nauseous and some stuff I’m eating have disgusted me. Is that normal?

Pregnancy Pregnancy week by week
0 comments
D
Dani
oh that’s something new then! I hadn’t had this before. My boy doesn’t like eggs then lol
27 Mar 2024

Answer

See more comments
L
Lianna
I’m 16 weeks and 5 days today also! I’m barely ever nauseous but if I am I’m just not in the mood for certain foods at that moment and I’ve only threw up once so far
27 Mar 2024

Answer

Related articles

Hot topics