Your baby at 16 weeks
The nervous system and muscles continue developing coordination. The baby can move the limbs.
Some people notice early movements around this time, but many feel them later.
TRIMESTER 2 · WEEK 16
16 weeks pregnant
Small movements, growing connections.
What to expect at 16 weeks pregnant: your baby, your symptoms and this week’s reminders.
Symptoms at 16 weeks pregnant
- You may notice fluttering sensations.
- Back discomfort or constipation may occur.
- Energy levels may change.
None of these symptoms is required. Symptoms alone cannot diagnose pregnancy or establish your baby’s wellbeing.
First movements are often felt between 16 and 24 weeks. Tell your team if you have felt none by 24 weeks.
Source for this week: NHS — Week 16
YOUR WEEK, YOUR JOURNEY
Explore another pregnancy week
Choose a week to explore your baby’s development and changes you may notice.
01 · FIRST TRIMESTERSmall beginnings
02 · SECOND TRIMESTERA growing connection
03 · THIRD TRIMESTERGetting closer to meeting
Sources and content note
This is source-based general information, not a substitute for a clinical assessment or individual care plan. The presence, absence or change of symptoms alone cannot establish pregnancy wellbeing. This content is not a personalised care plan reviewed by a healthcare professional.
This guide groups weeks 1–13 in the first trimester, 14–27 in the second, and 28 onwards in the third. Weeks refer to gestational age dated from the last menstrual period; clinical dating may differ.
- NHS — Pregnancy week by week
- ACOG — Fetal development and gestational age
- NHS — Your baby’s movements
- NHS — Pregnancy symptoms
Sources checked: 31 October 2026 · Illustrations are AI-generated conceptual drawings, not ultrasound or diagnostic images.