16 Weeks Pregnant: Baby Size, Symptoms & Tips

Your baby at 16 weeks

Still about the size of a lemon, your baby can hold their head up straighter and their eyes can make slow side-to-side movements. Their heart is beating strongly, often 140 to 160 times a minute.

Your body at 16 weeks

Some people, especially in a second pregnancy, feel the first flutters (quickening) between 16 and 20 weeks. It can feel like bubbles or a light tapping.

Common symptoms at 16 weeks pregnant

Possible first flutters
Glowing skin or breakouts
Back aches
Forgetfulness

Every pregnancy is different. Having none of these symptoms is normal too.

Tips for week 16

Sleep on your side and use a pregnancy pillow for support.
Ask your provider about the anatomy scan, usually at 18 to 22 weeks.
Keep up iron-rich foods like lentils, beans, lean meat and leafy greens.

Your week 16 checklist

Sleep on your side with a pillow
Book your anatomy scan
Eat iron-rich foods

Helpful at 16 weeks

16 Weeks Pregnant: your questions answered

How big is a baby at 16 weeks pregnant?

At 16 weeks your baby is about the size of a lemon: around 8.7 cm (3.4 in) long and weighing about 43 g (1.5 oz). Every baby grows at their own pace.

How many months is 16 weeks pregnant?

16 weeks pregnant is month 4 of your pregnancy, in the second trimester. Your due date is 24 weeks away.

What does quickening feel like?

First movements often feel like bubbles, flutters or a light tapping low in your belly. They get stronger and more regular over the following weeks.

Sources

This guide is written from public guidance by the American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists (ACOG), the NHS, the CDC and the World Health Organization. Baby sizes are averages; your baby may be bigger or smaller and still perfectly healthy.

General information only, not medical advice.

History of updates

October 21, 2026: Added a weekly checklist and common questions.
October 21, 2026: Matched fruit, length and weight to the Prego app.
October 21, 2026: Published.