Your baby this week
Your baby can make faces now — squinting, frowning, even grimacing in there. It's not upset, just practicing. The muscles are connected to the nerves, so your baby can move with more purpose. The toenails are growing, and the circulatory system is working hard. The eyes are slowly moving under the closed lids. Your baby is getting more coordinated every day — soon those kicks will be strong enough for you to feel.
Your body this week
This is often when first-time moms feel their baby move for the first time — described as bubbles, butterflies, or gentle fluttering. If you haven't felt anything yet, don't worry — it can take until weeks 18-22, and that's perfectly normal. Back pain may increase as your center of gravity shifts. You might feel like you can finally enjoy being pregnant. Soak it in.
Common symptoms this week
Every pregnancy is different — you may notice some of these, all of them, or none at all. None of this is a checklist to worry over.
- Fluttery first movements
- Bubbles or butterflies inside
- Lower back pain
- A shifting centre of gravity
This week’s checklist
- Avoid lying flat on your back — use pillows to sleep on your side
- Start comparing childbirth education classes
- If you haven't felt movement yet, don't worry — it's still early
- Consider announcing at work if you haven't yet
- Begin thinking about baby names!
What’s normal this week
Most of what you’re feeling is your body doing exactly what it should — the everyday symptoms don’t need a call. The signs below are the rare exceptions: noticing one doesn’t mean something’s wrong, just that it’s worth a quick check.
When to call your doctor
- Severe back pain that doesn't respond to rest
- Any vaginal bleeding or spotting
- Burning or pain during urination
This guide offers general information for a typical pregnancy and is not a substitute for personalised medical advice. Always follow your doctor or midwife’s guidance for your situation.
Frequently asked questions
How big is my baby at 16 weeks pregnant?
At 16 weeks pregnant, your baby is about the size of an avocado.
What are common symptoms at 16 weeks pregnant?
Common symptoms around 16 weeks pregnant include fluttery first movements, bubbles or butterflies inside, lower back pain, a shifting centre of gravity. Every pregnancy is different — you may notice some of these, all of them, or none at all.
What is developing at 16 weeks pregnant?
Your baby can make faces now — squinting, frowning, even grimacing in there. It's not upset, just practicing.
When should I call my doctor at 16 weeks pregnant?
Call your doctor at 16 weeks if you notice severe back pain that doesn't respond to rest, any vaginal bleeding or spotting, burning or pain during urination.
Last updated June 2026
References
Ovyacare’s guidance is written in-house and aligned with leading medical authorities: