16 weeks pregnant
Our guide to your 16th week of pregnancy
Your Baby
Somewhere between 11cm and 12cm your baby is about to begin a major growth spurt. It will double its weight and add another third or so to its length in just a few weeks. It is starting to move around a lot more now and even play with the umbilical cord. In fact, your little boy or girl might play and move around for five minutes in one go and sucking its thumb is probably a regular occurrence now.
The eyes and ears are almost in their final resting positions and your baby is starting to look more like a human. The legs and arms, although still developing, now look much more in proportion to the rest of its body.
The placenta has taken over in providing all the nourishment your little one needs.
You
You might actually begin to feel your baby moving this week, which is a magical moment for any mum-to-be. Don’t be disheartened if you don’t feel anything just yet though. Before long you will be getting kicked and punched and feeling the vibrations of hiccups so often you will be telling your little footballer or boxer to calm down.
You are noticeably bigger this week. So far, you have probably put on around 2.2kg to 4.5kg depending on your original size and that of your baby. This growth around you tummy is because the uterus is expanding to make room for your growing baby. It can cause a little discomfort at times as ligaments are stretching and reshaping. This is normal and you have plenty of hormones rushing around your system to relax and loosen these ligaments.
Back Pain
As you start to put on more weight you may feel your centre of gravity shift and you will try to compensate for this forward weight by leaning backwards. Back pain is common during pregnancy. Exercise can help to relieve some of the pain by creating stronger back and core-stabiliser muscles. However, it’s also important you work on your posture, keeping a straight back and shoulders. Don’t over do it mind you. Too much tension can only make things worse. Try to sit and rest regularly and do plenty of yoga or Pilates stretches. Don’t carry anything heavy and wear shoes that are supportive, comfortable and preferably flat.
Try to avoid sleeping on your back. You should try to sleep on your sides, optimally your left so nutrients can flow consistently towards your uterus. If it’s more comfortable, place some pillows between your knees to remove the pressure on your hips and pelvis. Prop yourself up in bed too, as too few pillows can affect your centre of gravity even when lying down.
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