What does a baby look like at 16 weeks of pregnancy? Intrauterine development of a child in the sixteenth week of pregnancy. Possible physical sensations

AT WHAT TIME DOES THE ABDOMEN START GROWING (PHOTO - 16TH WEEK OF PREGNANCY)

During pregnancy, the belly grows due to three factors – uterine enlargement, amniotic fluid and fetal growth.

In order to understand At what age does the belly begin to grow?, we must turn to the average indicator. Typically, gynecologists indicate the 16th week of pregnancy, that is, from 4 months.

A woman has always been worried about the question of when the belly begins to grow strongly during pregnancy. Despite the average, at what time does the belly begin to grow? , depends on individual characteristics. For many, it becomes noticeable to others only at 5-6 months, and some manage to hide it until the end of pregnancy . Therefore, when the stomach expectant mother begins to grow during pregnancy, very personal.
The expectant mother must undergo a second prenatal screening and a triple comprehensive test from 16 to 20 week of pregnancy . The triple comprehensive test includes a blood test for AFP (alpha fetoprotein), hCG (human chorionic gonadotropin) ) and free estriol (unconjugated). Such a test makes it possible to understand the potential risks of having a baby with severe developmental anomalies, Down syndrome, for example.

if the studies revealed a possible pathology;

if parents are over 35 years old;

if you have relatives with genetic diseases.

The amniocentesis procedure is controlled using ultrasound and local anesthesia : the stomach is pierced special needle above the uterus and a fence is taken amniotic fluid. Then the fetal cells in the collected liquid are grown and genetically analyzed. It makes it possible to identify 40 infections and congenital malformations of the fetus . With this procedure, the risk of miscarriage is 0.5-3%.

The 16th week of pregnancy, or the fourth full obstetric month, has come to an end. Calendar date of your pregnancy is slightly less than 4 months. Many changes have occurred in your baby's body and your body.

16 WEEKS OF PREGNANCY. SIZE OF THE FETUS, FEELINGS OF THE FUTURE MOTHER

The 16th week of pregnancy arrives and the expectant mother begins to experience new sensations. They are associated with active enlargement of the uterus and an increase in the amount of amniotic fluid. When 16 weeks of pregnancy are over, a rounded belly will be visible in the photo. After all, the amniotic fluid will already be approximately 230-250 ml. During this period, it is recommended to become familiar with Kegel exercises. and incorporate some of them into your daily routine.

The following sensations are characteristic of the 16th week of pregnancy:

breast sensitivity increases due to increased blood flow;

sometimes it starts to protrude on the chest venous pattern, and Montgomery tubercles may appear near the nipple;

there may be constipation due to weakened intestinal motility;

pregnant women (again) can feel fetal movement , reminiscent of gas production in the lower intestines.

If you do an ultrasound at 16 weeks of pregnancy, you can see new changes that have occurred in the child. 16 weeks pregnant means that the size of the fetus gradually increases and its further development occurs:

he already holds his head straight, because the neck is well developed;

the facial muscles are formed - grimaces, winks appear, the mouth opens;

the ears are almost in their place (previously they were close to the neck);

the eyes are shifted to the center (previously they were on the sides);

bone formation begins;

the girls' ovaries have already descended into the hip region from the abdominal cavity;

progress in the functioning of the bladder and kidneys - every 45 minutes he releases urine into the amniotic fluid;

the legs lengthen, becoming more proportional to the body;

appearance of marigolds;

coordination of legs and arms improves;

sweat and sebaceous glands work;

At 16 weeks of your pregnancy, the fetus will be, by comparison, the size of an orange. On ultrasound at 16 weeks of pregnancy, the length of the fetus from the crown to the sacrum should be 108-116 mm, and the weight should be approximately 80 g.

Ultrasound at 16 weeks of pregnancy on the picture Gradually a real man is emerging.

HCG DURING PREGNANCY (NORMAL, IN FROZEN AND ECTOPIC PREGNANCY)

HCG, human chorionic gonadotropin, is a hormone synthesized by chorion cells (fetal membranes). It is he who confirms the pregnancy.

It is important to know hCG level during pregnancy, since a deviation from the norm may indicate pathological and physiological changes in the body.

On the 3-5th day of missed menstruation or 12 days after conception, an hCG analysis is already performed to determine pregnancy. If the hCG shows above 5 units, this will mean pregnancy. However, the hCG level during pregnancy is early period does not yet reach sufficient concentration. For further development of pregnancy, hCG analysis is prescribed 2-3 more times before the first ultrasound.

On the eve of taking a blood test for hCG, you should avoid any physical activity. He surrenders on an empty stomach in the morning. And if at another time, do not eat anything for 4-6 hours.

Abnormal hCG results can tell you a lot about your pregnancy. So, if the level of hCG is reduced during pregnancy, this may mean:

misplaced gestational age ;

cessation of pregnancy development (frozen pregnancy);

threat of miscarriage;

ectopic pregnancy ;

delayed fetal development;

dysfunction of the placenta;

post-term pregnancy;

fetal death (in the second and third trimesters).

During pregnancy, an increasing level of hCG is considered normal. In the first trimester it doubles every 2-3 days. The highest level of hCG is at 10-12 weeks. Then it gradually decreases and becomes constant in the second half of pregnancy.

Elevated hCG

Often, an increase in hCG levels is not a deviation from the normal course of pregnancy . It may be accompanied by multiple births or severe toxicosis.

If other tests deviate from the norm with elevated hCG, this may indicate gestosis or diabetes mellitus. High hCG is sometimes observed when taking hormones. The combination of elevated hCG with low estriol and AFP indicates a high risk of a child having Down syndrome.

Low hCG

Low hCG levels often indicate:

fetal death;

delay in fetal development;

ectopic pregnancy;

threat of miscarriage;

chronic placental insufficiency;

carrying a child to term.

HCG when detecting an ectopic pregnancy:

Causes of ectopic pregnancy poorly studied. It can only be recognized by ultrasound. An hCG test makes it possible to detect the tubal or ovarian attachment of the embryo during an ectopic pregnancy. HCG level in such cases it will either be slightly reduced or even remain normal at first. But then it drops sharply. But the pathology can be finally judged only after an ultrasound.

HCG for a frozen or regressing pregnancy:

A frozen pregnancy means the cessation of embryo development. Fetal death most often occurs in the first trimester, but sometimes occurs during later, but there is no miscarriage. False growth of the uterus and persistence of signs of pregnancy are noted.

HCG recorded during frozen pregnancy , begins to decline rapidly. Express tests will give negative results.

OBSTETRIC WEEKS OF PREGNANCY

The gynecologist estimates the pregnancy period, which is 2 weeks longer than the actual one. Why are obstetric weeks of pregnancy calculated this way? This issue is always on the agenda when registering for pregnancy.

Pregnancy occurs in the fallopian tube when the egg and sperm fuse at the time of ovulation or a day later. Thus, the gestational age can be calculated from the beginning of ovulation. This method is not accurate because ovulation does not always occur in the middle of the cycle.

Obstetric weeks of pregnancy have been calculated for a long time. Since the main sign of pregnancy is the absence of menstruation, the beginning of pregnancy is dated from the date of the last menstruation.

Modern gynecologists calculate obstetric weeks of pregnancy , specifying that 280 days after the first day of the last menstrual period the child must be born (9 full months plus 7 days). The obstetric period is the full cycle of fetal conception, development and growth. According to these calculations, the duration of pregnancy is 40 weeks, or 10 obstetric months. Obstetric week also contains 7 calendar days. Thus, it turns out that the obstetric gestational age is 2 weeks longer than the embryonic period.

9 months translated into obstetric weeks:

2 months = 8 weeks 6 days
3 months = 13 weeks 2 days
4 months = 17 weeks 5 days
5 months = 22 weeks 1 day
6 months = 26 weeks 3 days
7 months = 30 weeks 6 days
8 months = 35 weeks 4 days
9 months = 40 weeks

Let's consider an example of determining the duration of pregnancy.

subtracting 3 months, we get February;
according to the obstetric period - May 1 + 7 = 8th. This means the birth will take place on February 8, 2014;
differently – May 1 + 9 months + 7 days = February 8, 2014
Later, the period should be clarified by ultrasound up to 12 weeks. But sometimes the embryonic and obstetric dates on ultrasound do not coincide, since on ultrasound the period is determined by the size of the fetus. A time difference of 1-2 weeks is considered normal.

If the menstrual cycle deviates from 28 days or is irregular, the exact duration of pregnancy is difficult to determine. In these cases, the ultrasound results and the size of the uterus become a guideline.

Pregnant women are often confused about timing. You can practice. So, the 6th week of pregnancy, if it is obstetric, will correspond to the 4th week from conception and the beginning of the second month according to normal months. 7th obstetric week of your pregnancy , respectively - 5 weeks from conception, from delayed menstruation - 3 weeks and mid 2 months of pregnancy. The 5th week of pregnancy, defined as obstetric, is consistent with the 3rd week from conception and the end of the first - the beginning of the second month according to the usual months.

Try to practice determining pregnancy yourself . Take a piece of paper and write what the 5th week of pregnancy means when it is obstetric, then do the same when it is the 7th obstetric week of your pregnancy. And finally, test yourself by writing what the 6th week of pregnancy is - obstetric.


HOW TO USE DOPEGIT DURING PREGNANCY

Increased blood pressure, nausea and dizziness very often accompany pregnancy. . But there is a drug - dopegit, which will make life easier for pregnant women. Dopegite tablets contain cellulose acetate, alpha-methyldop, magnesium stearate, stearic acid, starch and talc.

Dopegyt, taken during pregnancy, reaches its maximum effect 4-6 hours after administration. The duration of its action is one to two days.

Dopegit is prescribed during pregnancy strictly according to indications. It does not negatively affect the child in the 2nd and 3rd trimesters. Dopegit reduces blood pressure by 10-20%. If the required reduction in pressure does not occur, the drug is prescribed together with heparin, rheopolyglucin, etc.

Dopegit as a safer drug for fetal development during pregnancy , are preferred over antihypertensive drugs themselves in the first trimester.

Before using dopegyt during pregnancy, read the instructions carefully.

Pregnant women tolerate dopegyt well due to its mild action.

Dopegit during pregnancy, according to the instructions, in its pharmacological action belongs to the antihypertensive drugs of central action.

Dopegit is taken orally before or after meals. The dosage is determined individually. The maximum daily dosage is 2 g. When taken with other drugs the maximum dose per day cannot exceed 500 mg.

When a stable result is achieved, the dose should be slowly reduced. In the first days of taking dopegyt, it causes drowsiness, lethargy, and lethargy.

ALWAYS consult your doctor before taking the drug!
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The first half of pregnancy is very important for the development of the fetus. At this time, important biological transformations occur in the woman’s body associated with the further growth of the child.

Enter the first day of your last menstrual period

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Anatomical features

The 16th week of pregnancy refers to the second trimester. At this stage, the physiological bond between mother and child begins to increase. Significant changes have already occurred in the baby’s body. During the first months of pregnancy, the child grew significantly; by this period many internal organs, however, important systems of the child’s body continue to improve.

By this period of pregnancy, doctors already call the baby a fetus, although previously they used a different term - embryo. The size of the fetus at this period of pregnancy is, as a rule, 12-16 cm. The weight of the baby is approximately 100-150 grams.

Doctors note that by this stage of pregnancy the baby’s size is comparable to an average avocado.


To accurately determine the parameters of the baby’s torso, specialists use ultrasound techniques. They quite accurately and safely allow one to assess the main clinical features of intrauterine fetal growth. For medical reasons, an ultrasound scan is prescribed. During such a study, the specialist determines several important parameters at once, among them – coccygeal-parietal size (CTP). This indicator describes the length from the tailbone to the crown of the baby.

For each period of pregnancy, this indicator has certain norms, therefore it allows you to assess the correspondence of the size of the fetus to the gestational age. So, at week 16 its normal values ​​are approximately 65-90 mm.


It's important to remember that KTE indicators are averaged. Doctors never make any diagnoses based on the results of one ultrasound. If, after an ultrasound, the fetal CTE values ​​are slightly different from normal, the expectant mother should consult with her obstetrician-gynecologist.

IN obstetric practice there are numerous cases when such a sign was just individual feature and did not at all indicate the presence of any pathology of intrauterine development in the baby.

In addition to CTE, ultrasound specialists can determine other clinical criteria for intrauterine development of the fetus - in particular, they measure distance between the parietal bones. Normally at this stage of pregnancy it is approximately 39 mm. The average circumference of the baby's tummy is 108 mm, and the length of the femur is 27 mm.

During an ultrasound examination, the doctor can also easily determine the location of the fetus in the uterus. At multiple pregnancy The specialist also evaluates how each baby is positioned. Ultrasound can also be used to diagnose low fetal position, as well as concomitant pathologies.



Features of development

At 15-16 weeks, strong changes occur in the baby. At this stage of pregnancy, the child already has quite good motor activity. Many expectant mothers begin to feel “kicks” in their belly.

The severity of such manifestations varies. This largely depends on the initial size of the baby, as well as on the amount of amniotic fluid. If there is a lot of amniotic fluid and the baby is small, the expectant mother may feel only minor fluctuations. So, she may feel “butterflies fluttering” in her stomach or “bubbles bursting”.

If at this stage of pregnancy the expectant mother does not experience any strange sensations, she should not immediately panic. Many women note that they first felt the active movements of their babies only at 20-22 weeks of pregnancy.



The child’s motor activity at this stage is an individual feature of each individual fetus. A woman’s feelings during her first and subsequent pregnancies are never identical. A child's activity is influenced by a huge variety of different factors.

By this period, the placenta has already fully formed. This organ is very important, because it contains blood vessels through which all important nutritional components, as well as dissolved oxygen, are delivered to the child’s body. At 16 weeks of pregnancy, the placenta and baby are already closely connected.


Skeleton and body shape

By the second trimester of pregnancy, many elements of the musculoskeletal system have formed in the child who is in the mother’s womb. The baby already has the rudiments of all baby teeth.

Every day the child’s cartilage and bone tissue density increases - this is necessary so that in the future the child’s body can cope with increasing static and dynamic loads. Characteristic changes occur in the cervical spine. The child is already able to hold his neck straight and also turn his head to the sides.

The child’s body configuration also changes. His legs gradually begin to lengthen - they are already longer than his arms. The baby begins to make grasping movements, which in their essence are an absolutely unconditioned reflex. The child can touch his umbilical cord and touch his tummy.


Leather

Small hairs appear on the baby's body and head. Sweat and sebaceous glands are formed. Gradually, the fat layer under the skin increases.

At this stage of intrauterine life, the baby’s skin is still very thin and transparent. The blood vessels are quite visible through them. In the future, the structure of the skin will transform, it will become denser. The child’s small fingernails are already fully formed.

Sense organs and nervous system

The hearing aid also changes. The baby's auditory bones have already formed, thanks to them the child is able to distinguish vibrations and hear sounds. Some babies even distinguish the timbre of their mother's voice.

The taste analyzer also continues to improve and develop. The child's tongue already has taste buds. Thanks to them, in the future the child will feel different kinds tastes.



By this stage of pregnancy, the baby’s nervous system is already quite well developed.. A baby at 16 weeks is able to produce sounds and even some smells. Future parents can talk to their child, read books to him and even listen to music with him.

Active development nervous system contributes to the baby’s first emotions. The child may grimace, smile, frown and even yawn. The twins begin to actively study each other. They can touch fingers or touch each other's tummies.

The number of nerve cells (neurons) in a baby at this stage of intrauterine development increases. The interaction between cells also increases. This promotes the active development of the brain, and is subsequently necessary for the formation of conditioned reflexes.


Digestion

Changes also occur in the baby's digestion. The baby begins to swallow amniotic fluid. This process is absolutely normal for this stage of intrauterine development.

All this contributes to the fact that original feces - meconium - begin to form in the baby’s intestines. In terms of its chemical composition, it consists almost entirely of bile. The color of meconium is usually dark green. This feature is due to the imperfect digestive system of the fetus.

The main organs of the digestive system at this stage of the baby’s intrauterine life work in a “training” mode. The small liver and stomach will truly begin to function later, however, even at this stage, primitive processes of their functioning occur.


Circulation

The baby, the size of a small avocado, already has a real heart beating. It is still very small, but already has main chambers and sections. The baby's heart rate at this stage of its intrauterine development is quite high. Scientific research states that the fetal heart is capable of pumping about 23 liters of blood in 24 hours.

The active work of the heart ensures that the child’s heart rate can already be measured. The normal heart rate at this stage of pregnancy is about 140-160 beats per minute. The baby's heartbeat is a very important clinical indicator and must be assessed by doctors over time.


The urinary system of the fetus also undergoes specific changes. The child can empty his or her bladder every 60 minutes. This process is completely physiological and leads to some change chemical composition amniotic fluid.

The functioning of the circulatory system also changes. The baby is already beginning to develop specific children's hemoglobin - doctors also call it fetal hemoglobin. In the future, he will transform and turn into an adult form. Such hemoglobin is somewhat different from adult hemoglobin in its basic properties.


Internal secretion

Specific changes occur in the functioning of the endocrine glands. So, the child’s thyroid and pancreas are already beginning to produce hormones. Secretion in the stomach also functions, which is manifested in the formation of gastric juice.

The boy's body begins to synthesize testosterone, the main male sex hormone, while in girls the active formation of eggs begins. At the same time, the boy’s body is biologically protected from excessive formation of female sex hormones.

If this mechanism does not work, this can lead to the appearance of various endocrine pathologies.


Other body systems

The child's bone marrow is almost completely formed. Its structure is represented by cells that will subsequently participate in the process of hematopoiesis. Also, by this period of intrauterine life, the child has already formed his individual blood type and Rh factor.

At this stage of pregnancy, the sex of the baby can already be determined. This is determined by a specialist during an ultrasound examination based on gender characteristics. In some cases this cannot be done. Typically, this situation develops if the child turns away from the ultrasound sensor.

If the expectant mother is carrying several babies at the same time, the doctor can determine the gender of each of them.


What does the baby look like?

The configuration of the baby’s face also changes, its contours become clearer. The nose and cheeks continue to form - by this period of pregnancy they become more voluminous.

The baby's ears change - they move down, closer to the neck. In the future, they will practically remain in the same place without displacement. The forehead gradually begins to move forward, which leads to the fact that the child’s facial features take on an increasingly human appearance.

The fetus already has small eyelashes and eyebrows begin to grow. The hairs are still very small, but already form clear growth contours. In the future, the shape of the baby's eyebrows will change.

Second screening



Mom at 16 weeks pregnant

The expectant mother's immunity has two main enemies: stress and infectious diseases. The fact is that you have to carry a child for 9 months - during this period several seasons of the year will change, dangerous both in terms of development infectious diseases, and in terms of viral infection. Methods for preventing infections have been well known since childhood: wash your hands with soap, thoroughly wash vegetables, fruits and berries, spend less time in crowded places during periods of raging flu or acute respiratory infections, and if this is not possible, wear a respiratory bandage, walk more in the fresh air.

Start hardening your body, as this procedure will increase your energy potential. Scientists have found that hardened mothers are more adapted to the stress (mental and physical) associated with bearing a child and experience labor pain much easier. Hardening strengthens cardiovascular system, activates the gastrointestinal tract, the body’s cleansing system, has a beneficial effect on the nervous system, and improves the metabolic process.

Although all this happens in the mother’s body, it is important for your baby, as it significantly improves development conditions. Nice views hardening are acceptable physical exercise, swimming, dousing with water, contrast shower. A slight decrease in temperature in the abdominal area during swimming, a contrast shower or dousing with water will give the Baby new sensations, as well as active movements. The fact is that the skin of a very tiny person is a very sensitive organ, and the signals coming from it train brain activity in their own way.

Be sure to walk at a comfortable pace, because a walk is not only a source of energy for you, but also a source of oxygen for the Baby. Oxygen nourishes brain cells and thereby contributes to the development of the most important organ. And what parents don’t dream of their child being smart and intelligent?

For a growing Baby, the measured swaying motions during mother's walking are training of the vestibular apparatus and at the same time a way... to sleep sweetly (in the future, such a wonderful state, when the Baby sleeps next to the mother's body, and your hands remain free, can only be achieved with the help sling).

16th week of pregnancy: Video "Second trimester screening"

According to the obstetric calendar, the 16th week of pregnancy falls in the fourth month " interesting situation" women. The second trimester is in full swing, and if everything goes as usual, the woman blossoms more and more and continues to prepare for the inevitable motherhood.

Feel

Feelings at the 16th week of pregnancy, if it proceeds favorably and in accordance with all norms, are not overshadowed by any painful or unpleasant manifestations. Toxicosis is a thing of the past, and so is frequent urination. The breasts, preparing for lactation, continue to enlarge, but the pain, as a rule, already disappears. Against this background, the expectant mother seems to “come to life”: the hormonal background has established itself in comparison with the early stages of pregnancy, therefore the woman becomes balanced and calmer, full of new strength and joy.

Starting from the 16th week of pregnancy, a woman often begins to feel her appetite increase. This is especially true for those mothers who initially suffered from toxicosis: now is the time to catch up on “lost time” and eat tasty and nutritious food, but at the same time keeping an eye on your weight.

It’s surprising, but at the same time pleasant, that the sensations at 16 weeks of pregnancy can be enriched by the first movements of a very tiny baby. Women who are pregnant again are more likely to feel the first movements of the baby: fetal movements in this case often occur 2-4 weeks earlier than during the first pregnancy. Often, the expectant mother at first does not even realize that these were the very first tangible movements of her beloved child: many women compare them with a slight flutter or sensation from air bubbles.

But, even if mommy listens sensitively to her feelings, but still doesn’t feel any movements, you shouldn’t be upset about this. After all, some mothers have a more active child, some have a calmer one, even the same woman different pregnancies babies begin to move noticeably in different ways.

Ultrasound

But, even if the woman does not yet feel the movements of the fetus, she can observe them during an ultrasound at the 16th week of pregnancy. When conducting ultrasound examination The monitor clearly shows how the baby moves, and even complements his movements with active grimacing. An ultrasound at the 16th week of pregnancy will show: the baby’s facial expressions are unusually active - the baby is already frowning, grimacing, winking. And, besides, it becomes clear who is “making faces” in the mother’s tummy: an ultrasound at 16 weeks of pregnancy is quite capable of determining the sex of the baby.

Fetus at 16 weeks of gestation

Whether it is a boy or a girl, the fetus at the 16th week of pregnancy already reaches a “decent” size: it is 11 cm in length from the coccyx to the crown of the head, weighing about 100-120 g.

The baby's bones continue to strengthen - the legs become more developed, the nails are almost completely formed. The baby already holds his neck straight and can turn his head from side to side. At the same time, the ears and eyes are getting closer and closer to their “designated” location.

The baby’s heart works at its maximum, pumping up to 25 liters of blood every day. Digestive functions are now performed by the liver, which was previously responsible for hematopoiesis. But gradually the stomach, and with it the intestines and gall bladder, begin to function, while still only carrying out “training” work. In the intestines of the fetus, for example, the first contents appear, which for now consists almost of bile. This is the original feces, meconium, which has a dark green or black-green color. Both the baby’s kidneys and bladder are already fulfilling their purpose: the fetus urinates every 45 minutes.

From now on, the baby’s bone marrow is responsible for hematopoiesis, and the composition of the blood is also fully formed. Now it is characterized by all those cells that are in the blood of an adult, the blood type and Rh factor of the fetus are determined. At the same time, there is still a place in the blood for a special substance called fetal hemoglobin, or hemoglobin of newborns. However, ordinary hemoglobin is already beginning to appear in the blood, but it will completely replace fetal hemoglobin only six months after the baby is born.

Analyzes

Week 16 is a crucial period for a woman who now faces a slightly expanded list of tests. In addition to traditional urine tests, blood pressure measurements, weight control, and listening to the fetal heart, tests at 16 weeks are also desirable, which will detect or refute the presence of severe defects in fetal development. More precisely, one test: a blood test that allows you to assess the levels of alpha-fetoprotein (AFP), human chorionic gonadotropin (hCG) and unconjugated estriol (NE) in a woman’s body.

A study of the levels of these substances in the body of a pregnant woman makes it possible with a high degree of probability to assume the presence of chromosomal abnormalities and gross developmental defects in the fetus. Thus, deviations of AFP, hCG and NE values ​​from the norm may indicate the possibility that the baby may have Down syndrome, cranial hernia, anencephaly, or spinal malformation. However, unfavorable tests in no case can be a reason for making a final diagnosis, but they become good reason for additional research and analysis. For example, for amniocentesis.

Amniocentesis is an examination that involves taking a sample of amniotic fluid to study its composition. Analysis of amniotic fluid, the puncture of which is taken by inserting a needle into the uterus under ultrasound control, makes it possible to diagnose about 40 birth defects development. At the same time, amniocentesis can provoke quite serious complications of pregnancy - up to its termination and premature birth. Therefore, this test should be carried out exclusively by a highly qualified specialist, having explained to the woman all the dangers of the procedure the day before. A woman, in turn, can always refuse such a procedure if she wishes.

Pain

Despite the fact that toxicosis has already passed by the 16th week of pregnancy, and in general the woman feels much better in the first weeks of pregnancy, still some painful sensations can sometimes bother her. For example, complaints of pain in the lower back at 16 weeks are common. As a rule, they arise due to the increased load on the spine of the expectant mother. Considering this, you should give up heels and, if possible, give your spine a rest as often as possible. It would also be a good idea to choose suitable posture for sleep. It is now a priori impossible to sleep on your stomach - pressure on the stomach must be eliminated. But now you can’t sleep much on your back either: this position can cause pain in the lower back at 16 weeks. From now on, the most preferable position for sleeping is on the left side, with one knee slightly pulled up to the chest.

Uterus

At 16 weeks of pregnancy, the uterus continues to increase due to the constant growth of the fetus: now its weight can reach 250 g. During an examination, the doctor always measures the height of the uterus, which at 16 weeks already reaches half the distance to the navel. Such measurements are necessary to ensure the normal course of pregnancy and the normal development of the fetus. A woman can also feel the “house” of her baby: the uterus at 16 weeks of pregnancy can be felt approximately 7-7.5 cm below the navel. Gradually increasing in size, the uterus inevitably begins to put pressure on the intestines, which can provoke bloating, heartburn and constipation.

Belly at 16 weeks of pregnancy

Along with the enlargement of the uterus, the belly also enlarges at the 16th week of pregnancy: at this stage the belly already clearly protrudes forward. Moreover, if this is the first pregnancy, then the belly does not protrude as much as in repeat pregnancies- the muscles and ligaments of the abdomen and uterus are still toned and not stretched.

As the abdomen grows, a dark stripe may appear more and more clearly on it, which stretches from the navel down, dividing the abdomen into two halves. This is a consequence of the accumulation of melanin pigment in the skin, a temporary phenomenon that will go away on its own after childbirth. By the way, pigment spots can also appear on the forehead, on the cheeks, around the eyes and even on the bridge of the nose throughout pregnancy. They will also disappear after the baby is born - along with the brown stripe on the stomach.

Discharge

The nature of the discharge at this stage may change somewhat: discharge at the 16th week of pregnancy may be somewhat abundant and have a whitish color. Do not be alarmed: this situation corresponds to the norm if the discharge at the 16th week of pregnancy has a uniform consistency, is not accompanied by itching and burning and does not cause pain in the abdominal area. It is enough just to keep the perineum and genitals clean and resort to regular hygiene procedures to prevent the development of infection.

Which will be indicated by a changed color (greenish, gray, with an admixture of mucus), consistency (heterogeneous and curdled, bubbling discharge) and bad smell discharge. If discharge at 16 weeks of pregnancy has any of these signs, you should definitely consult a doctor: changes in discharge may be explained by the appearance of thrush, colpitis or vulvitis. In this case, the pregnant woman will definitely be prescribed appropriate treatment.

You also need to sound the alarm if, at 16 weeks of pregnancy, bloody or brown discharge suddenly appears, accompanied by a pulling sensation in the abdomen. Such signs indicate an increased risk of premature termination of pregnancy.

Sex at 16 weeks pregnant

The second trimester is perhaps the best time for rebirth intimate life spouses, if it was interrupted due to the woman’s poor health in the first weeks of pregnancy. Sex at 16 weeks of pregnancy, in the absence of any contraindications, is absolutely safe and can bring many new and vibrant sensations to future parents. But when having sex, it is imperative to avoid pressure on the mother’s belly, choosing the most suitable positions for sex at 16 weeks of pregnancy.

Weight and nutrition

The weight at the 16th week of pregnancy usually already exceeds the “initial” weight: in general, a woman often gains about 2.5 kg during this time. And in the future, it is imperative to monitor your weight in order to avoid excess weight towards the end of pregnancy and difficult childbirth for this reason.

Among other things, it will help with this and proper nutrition- the choice of food products while carrying a baby should be approached with special attention. Nutrition at the 16th week of pregnancy, as in previous weeks, needs to be complete, with an optimal ratio of all nutrients and beneficial substances. If this has not been done before, it is advisable to develop a diet at 16 weeks of pregnancy, which you will have to strictly adhere to in the future. The most optimal diet: 3-5 times a day in small portions, but the most nutritious and healthy food. Breakfast is required, as is the first course at lunchtime, but dinner should be light. It is better to avoid snacking between main meals - they affect unwanted weight gain.

It also makes sense to think about taking additional vitamin and mineral complexes: the need for nutrients has now increased significantly. Calcium and vitamin D are especially needed at this stage - you need to take one or another vitamin-mineral complex after first discussing this step with your doctor.

Frozen pregnancy

Frozen pregnancy, which is more often characteristic of early dates pregnancy, can still overtake a woman in the second trimester. Moreover, the period of 16 weeks, or more precisely the period of 16-18 weeks, is the most dangerous in this regard.

A frozen pregnancy at 16 weeks becomes a tragic event in the life of a woman who is already cherishing dreams of meeting her unborn child. Pregnancy fading - intrauterine fetal death and further failure to develop pregnancy - can occur for many reasons: intrauterine infection of the fetus, chromosomal abnormalities that have formed in it, Rh conflict between mother and baby, and the impact of negative factors on the fetus. Abortions preceding fertilization provoke intrauterine fetal death and fading of pregnancy - such interventions lead to a significant change hormonal levels, injure and often infect the cervix.

A frozen pregnancy is determined at 16 weeks by monitoring the growth of the uterus and confirmed during an ultrasound examination. Thus, an ultrasound makes it possible to accurately determine the absence of a fetal heartbeat: at week 16, the baby does not always make itself known by noticeable movement, therefore accurate confirmation of the absence of a heartbeat is necessary.

Unfortunately, a diagnosed frozen pregnancy at 16 weeks must be terminated in a hospital setting and on an emergency basis. Otherwise it is possible dangerous complications- infection of a woman (a dead fetus provokes inflammatory processes in the uterus), bleeding due to detachment of the ovum, which is difficult to stop. After scheduled cleaning, a comprehensive and thorough examination will be needed to identify the cause of the pregnancy fading, as well as some time for the woman’s rehabilitation and recovery. To plan next pregnancy It is not recommended for another six months after forced medical intervention due to fading pregnancy.

Maria Sokolova


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The sixteenth obstetric week is the development of the fetus. The 16th week is rich in sensations. The cheeks and lips of a pregnant woman turn pink due to an increase in the volume of circulating blood. The fetus continues to grow actively, and the mother continues to recover.

Feelings of a pregnant woman at 16 weeks

  • Women who have already had children begin feel. Those expecting their firstborn will experience these feelings later - at 18, or even 20 weeks. The fetus is still small, so its turns and points are not perceived by the woman. The first movements are similar to the sensations of gases moving through the digestive tract;
  • The woman’s general well-being improves significantly;
  • More and more often, the expectant mother experiences joyful excitement;
  • As the baby grows, so does the mother’s appetite;
  • The usual clothes become tight and you have to switch to more spacious ones, although clothes from the store are not yet suitable for expectant mothers;
  • For many expectant mothers, it is possible at this stage changes in skin pigmentation, which usually disappear after the birth of the baby - the nipples and the skin around them darken, as well as the midline of the abdomen, freckles and moles;
  • The belly of a pregnant woman begins to noticeably round, and the waist gradually smoothes out;
  • Tired legs appear. The center of gravity of the body shifts, weight is gained - the load on the legs increases significantly. It is at 16 weeks that a woman develops a characteristic duck-like gait.

Forums: What do women say about their well-being?

Natasha:

And I’ve been wearing maternity clothes for a long time! Your belly is getting rounder right before your eyes! And my breasts have increased by one and a half sizes. My husband is delighted!))) The mood is great, the energy is in full swing!

Hm. I've also been wearing maternity clothes for a long time. It’s already impossible to hide your belly - everyone congratulates you en masse.)) Joy is overflowing, in fact, just like not caring about work.))

Marina:

I gained six kilos. 🙁 Apparently, my nightly cravings for the refrigerator are taking a toll. My husband said to put a lock on it. 🙂 I already use all sorts of creams to prevent stretch marks. Everything has grown by leaps and bounds - butt, chest, tummy. 🙂

Vaska:

We're 16 weeks! 🙂 I only gained 2 and a half kg. It’s annoying that I can no longer wear my favorite tight pants. I eat everything in a row - from sandwiches to meat, if my belly wants it, then I can’t deny myself this. 🙂

Nina:

I don’t want to sleep at all now, girls! Vimes! The mood is great! The pressure is low, of course, you will have to “crack” intravenous glucose. There are problems with underwear - the elastic bands get in the way, everything is uncomfortable, only my husband’s “parachutes” fit properly. 🙂 I wear them! 🙂

What happens in the mother's body?

  • The uterus expands and the amount of amniotic fluid is already about 250 ml;
  • The active work of the mammary glands begins, the breasts become sensitive and swell. Due to increased blood flow a venous pattern appears and Montgomery tubercles appear;
  • By the period of 16 weeks, the expectant mother has gained about 5-7 kg weight;
  • Appearance changes - possible the appearance of stretch marks on the abdomen, buttocks, chest and thighs;
  • At 16 weeks, the uterus is located centrally between the navel and pubic bone, causing the ligaments to stretch and thicken as it grows. This can cause pain in the abdomen, back, groin and thighs;
  • Also typical for this period numbness and tingling of hands– carpal tunnel syndrome, itching in the abdomen, feet and palms;
  • Swelling of the fingers, face and ankles– is no exception for this period. But you should be careful about gaining weight too quickly - it can be a symptom of preeclampsia;
  • Urination is normalized, which cannot be said about the work of the intestines - its work is complicated by lethargy of the muscle wall. Constipation poses a threat of miscarriage - you should pay more attention to the issue of nutrition and regular bowel movements;
  • Sometimes women at 16 weeks may experience pyelonephritis, provoked by the hormonal influence of progesterone and causing the threat of premature birth.

Fetal development at 16 weeks

  • At 16 weeks The baby is already holding his head straight, his facial muscles are formed, and he involuntarily winks, frowns and opens his mouth;
  • There is already enough calcium for the formation of bones, joints of the legs and arms have formed, and the process of bone hardening began;
  • The body and face are covered with fluff (lanugo);
  • The baby's skin is still very thin, and blood vessels are visible through it;
  • It is already possible to determine the gender of the unborn child;
  • The baby moves a lot and sucks his thumb, although the woman may not feel it yet;
  • The fetal chest performs respiratory movements, and his heart beats twice as fast as his mother’s;
  • The fingers are already acquiring their own unique skin pattern;
  • Marigolds are formed– long and sharp;
  • The bladder is emptied every 40 minutes;
  • The baby's weight reaches from 75 to 115 g;
  • Height – about 11-16 cm (approximately 8-12 cm from head to pelvic end);
  • The child's movements become more coordinated. The baby can already make swallowing movements, suck, turn your head, stretch, spit, yawn and even fart. And clench your fingers into fists and play with your legs and arms;
  • The umbilical cord is strong and elastic, capable of withstanding a load of up to 5-6 kg. By the 16th week of pregnancy, its length is already 40-50 cm, and its diameter is about 2 cm;
  • Neurons ( nerve cells) are actively gaining growth. Their number increases by 5000 units every second;
  • The adrenal cortex makes up 80 percent of the total mass. They already produce the required amount of hormones;
  • The pituitary gland begins to work, the control of the nervous system by the baby’s body becomes more noticeable;
  • In girls at 16 weeks, the ovaries descend into the pelvic area, the fallopian tubes, uterus and vagina are formed. In boys, the external genitalia are formed, but the testicles are still in the abdominal cavity;
  • The baby's breathing is still carried out through the placenta;
  • Digestive function added to existing liver functions;
  • Fetal blood contains red blood cells, monocytes and lymphocytes. Hemoglobin begins to be synthesized;
  • The baby is already responding to the voices of loved ones, hears music and sounds;
  • The ears and eyes are in their place, the eyelids are separated, and the nose shape and already eyebrows and eyelashes appear;
  • The subcutaneous tissue is not yet fully developed, the baby’s body is covered with a white lubricant that protects it until birth;
  • The heart works at a frequency of 150-160 beats per minute.

Fetal dimensions at 16 weeks:

Head size(fronto-occipital) is about 32 mm
Abdomen diameter– about 31.6 mm
Chest diameter– about 31.9 mm
Placenta thickness reaches 18.55 mm by this time

Ultrasound at the 16th week, photo of the fetus, photo of the mother’s abdomen, video

Ultrasound at 16 weeks

Belly of a woman at 16 weeks

Video about baby development at 16 weeks of pregnancy

Nutrition for the expectant mother at 16 weeks

  • Vegetarianism o, which is very fashionable today, is not an obstacle to bearing a child. Especially when vitamin and mineral complexes are included in the diet. But strict vegetarianism and a woman’s absolute refusal of animal proteins deprives the baby of essential amino acids. This can cause disturbances in the development of the fetus and cause complications;
  • Strict diets, fasting and fasting are strictly contraindicated for pregnant women;
  • The diet should include products that fully satisfy the needs of mother and child for vitamins, minerals and nutrients;
  • Protein sources– meat, dairy products, fish, legumes, nuts, cereals, seeds. Chicken, beef, rabbit and turkey are the healthiest. Fish should be present in the diet at least twice a week;
  • Complex carbohydrates are preferred that do not cause weight gain and take a long time to digest - wholemeal bread, bran, whole cereals, fruits and vegetables with peel; look,
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