WeMoms
9 Apr 2024

Your body at 16 weeks of pregnancy

Your Body at 16 Weeks
Embarking on the 16th week of pregnancy signifies a pivotal period in your journey towards motherhood. 

Your body, now fully attuned to the life developing within, undergoes various adaptations to accommodate your growing child.
Juliette
Midwife for 8+ years
Symptoms of the Week
Lower back pain

Weird Pregnancy Dreams

Itching bump

Expanding Uterus: The growth of your uterus not only signifies the development of your baby but also leads to a series of physical adjustments including lower back pain and round ligament pain, symptomatic of your body's preparation for childbirth.
As your uterus expands, you might experience some round ligament pain. It's a sign that your body is preparing for your growing baby.
Juliette, Midwife for 8+ years
Is it Normal?
Hemorrhoids: A common yet seldom discussed symptom, hemorrhoids arise due to increased pressure on the rectal veins, leading to discomfort.

Altered Sleep Patterns: The hormonal surges of pregnancy can affect your sleep, manifesting in vivid dreams and increased snoring due to upper airway swelling.

Skin Sensitivity: Your expanding belly might itch as the skin stretches, while varicose veins become more pronounced due to increased blood volume.

Lower Back Pain: As your center of gravity shifts, lower back pain becomes a prevalent concern, necessitating adjustments in your daily routine for relief.
Top Asked Questions
Top 5 questions answered
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 yourself
Hemorrhoids: Eat a high-fiber diet and drink plenty of water. Avoid straining. Try sitz baths and short walks for relief.

Snoring: Sleep on your side using a pregnancy pillow. Elevate your head with pillows to improve airflow.

Lower Back Pain: Engage in gentle stretching or prenatal yoga. Take warm baths and wear flat, supportive shoes.

Vivid Dreams: Ensure adequate rest, maintain a regular sleep schedule, limit caffeine, and create a calming bedtime environment. Seek professional advice if needed.

Itchy Skin: Moisturize with gentle lotions or oils free from harsh chemicals. Pat skin dry post-bath to minimize itchiness.
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!
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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😂

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

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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
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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😂

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

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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 😫

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

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

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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 😂

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

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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 ?! 🥹

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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

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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!

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

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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.

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

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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??

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

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K
Kelsey
Are they pretty expensive‽
27 Mar 2024

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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

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

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

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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?

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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

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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

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